Here's your medical term for the day:
Ileus is the medical term for lack of movement somewhere in the intestines that leads to a buildup and potential blockage of food material.
This is a pretty common issue after this sort of surgery. Basically, the intestines are struggling to wake up and function in a coordinated effort to move things along. The result is lots of nausea.
Penny had X-rays this morning to make sure that there was nothing more (like a complete blockage) contributing to her nausea for the last 24 hours. The X-rays confirmed that this is the case.
The only real treatment for an ileus is waiting and walking. Fortunately the walking part is going quite well if we can time the walks between the worst of the nausea. In Dr Assifi's words: "This isn't pleasant, but it's temporary. You're doing great."
We also have to guard against dehydration without overdoing the diet. She'll get some IV fluids if necessary.
They don't want to send Penny home until she has had "a couple good days". We're hoping today will be one of those.
Comments
Teri Warners: Praying for both of you dear people and your spouses and families too!
Marie VanderLinde : Praying for comfort and a quick wake-up for those intestinal muscles!
Susan Langeland: I hope, along with you, that this will be one of Penny’s good days. Praying for patience and a bright outlook in spite of what you are facing. I’m writing as I get chemo infusion # 8 of the 12 I’m prescribed-and hoping the same attitudes for myself!
Jeffrey Schra: Thanks for this update. Definitely praying that today will be one of those good days!