Postoperative Problems

Emergencies

Yes	Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

• Signs of shock
• Moderate to severe difficulty breathing
• Severe pain
• Symptoms of pulmonary embolism
• Chest pain that is crushing or squeezing, is increasing in intensity, or occurs with any other symptoms of a heart attack
• A hard, painful, distended abdomen
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Bleeding that does not stop with direct pressure

Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Note:

If you have had surgery: Follow the instructions given to you by your surgeon. If the instructions from your surgeon are not clear or do not cover your particular problem, contact your surgeon.

Yes	Have you developed a symptom or problem after surgery?

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: January 15, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Brent Shoji, MD - General Surgery
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