Beat the afternoon slump

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From A Bigger Life

It is normal to feel exhausted in the early weeks and months following surgery.

Reasons why you might be feeling tired

  • You probably didn’t get much sleep in hospital as they are really busy places.
  • You are up at night changing or emptying your ostomy pouch so your sleep has been interrupted.
  • Your sleeping position may have changed as you are could be uncomfortable after surgery.

What you can do to help prevent tiredness

  • If you are tired during the day, take a nap in the afternoon.
  • Use pillows to help make you feel more comfortable.
  • Try to avoid eating large meals late in the evenings, this will reduce your night time emptying allowing you to get a longer uninterrupted sleep.
  • Although you are feeling very tired it is important to try to do some very gentle exercise such as a short walk and just getting some fresh air. This will help you sleep much better at night time.
  • Establish a bedtime routine and get into a habit of going to bed at the same time each night.
  • Ensure you are hydrated because if you aren’t taking enough fluids that will also contribute to feeling very tired.
  • It all this fails and you are still feeling concerned about how tired you are feeling please consult your stoma nurse or doctor.

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