How can you sleep after gallbladder surgery?

When I had my gallbladder removed, sleeping on my left side or flat on my back with a few pillows supporting my knees was the only way I could rest. It kept the pressure off my incisions. I also used a small, soft pillow pressed gently against my stomach whenever I had to move.

Be careful when you are resting post-surgery. If you feel a sudden, severe pain in your abdomen, develop a high fever, or feel very dizzy, don't just try to sleep it off like I did once with an infection. Call your hospital immediately and get it checked.

I went through this three months ago, and sleeping on my back was definitely the safest bet. I used a couple of extra pillows under my head and knees to stay comfortable. Don't worry, the sharp discomfort usually goes away in about 4 to 5 days.

My college-going daughter had her laparoscopic gallbladder surgery last year and struggled to sleep due to gas pain in her shoulders. The doctor told us that walking slowly around the room for 5 minutes before bed helps release that surgical gas. It really helped her sleep much better.

The nursing staff at my hospital gave me very clear instructions on post-op sleeping positions and prescribed mild pain meds for the first few nights. If you are having severe pain or can't sleep at all, please contact your surgeon's team directly for guidance.

On the second night after my surgery, I was in so much discomfort trying to sleep that I thought something had gone wrong inside. But my doctor assured me it was just normal muscle soreness from the laparoscopic gas. Once I took my regular prescribed painkiller on time, I slept peacefully.