Rosemary, lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus oils should be diluted with an oil diffuser during sleep to mask the scent of these oils. If you have the opportunity to prep your bedroom before your surgery, you might want to invest in blackout curtains and moisture-wicking sheets to create a dark, relaxing atmosphere. Any surgery that requires an incision (cut) causes injury to the skin, which will result in scarring. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Effects of Medications Administered to You During Surgery, 3. In the initial days after surgery, any type of heavy or intense exercise is prohibited. As also mentioned earlier, sleeping on ones left side helps to relieve this pain because gravity pulls blood from the shoulder to the heart, which reduces swelling and pressure on your nerve endings. For the initial few days after gallbladder surgery, you will need to follow a clear liquid diet (e.g., broth, gelatin, and other transparent liquids). Sleeping on ones back also helps to reduce pressure on the abdomen, which can help reduce discomfort. How to Sleep after Gallbladder Surgery the Best Way After gallbladder surgery, many people experience trouble sleeping due to discomfort and pain from the operation site and medications' side effects. If you have had recurring gallstones or bile blockages, your doctor may recommend having this surgery. They may also advise you to take a gas reducer, such as simethicone (Gas-X), and a stool softener. Gallbladder surgery involves removing the diseased organ and then reconnecting the liver and pancreas ducts to allow bile to flow into the intestines where it is needed for digestion. Id be happy to help where I can. Up . Gallbladder removal surgery is regarded as an excellent procedure, but it is also prone to complications. Can Lactose Intolerant Eat Chocolate In Peace? If you have questions about how to manage this symptom, talk with your doctor. If your bile duct is clogged, sleeping on the left side may alleviate gallstones pain. Sleep on your back is the best position of sleeping after gallbladder surgery. People who have had their gallbladders removed have significantly more bile reflux than do people who haven't had this surgery. Depending on the type of cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder), the recovery time for a patient may be longer. It's estimated that around 10 to 15% of those who have had their gallbladder removed will experience post-cholecystectomy syndrome (PCS). As your body heals, these symptoms should improve. Bed bases and wedge pillows can also help you feel more comfortable in bed. Gallbladder surgery is a common procedure that is performed when the gallbladder has become inflamed or infected.