After pain from colon cancer surgery. What level of pain is normal?

I have just had keyhole surgery to remove a cancerous polyp. They removed part of my colon on the right side with the polyp on and reattached it. I am taking tramadol with Paracetamols for pain relief.  What level of pain is normal? And when should it ease? Also, my plasters aren't waterproof and I am unsure what to do about showering. 

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about your recent bowel cancer diagnosis but pleased you've now had your keyhole surgery.

    Some moderate pain and tenderness is normal after this type of surgery, especially during the first few days. It should then improve gradually over the next couple of weeks.

    Do contact your surgical team or NHS111 if the pain gets worse despite taking painkillers, or if you develop a temperature or signs of redness or inflammation that may indicate a wound infection.

    I'm not sure if you got discharge instructions from the hospital on managing your dressings. Check with the specialist nurse on the ward for advice. Until then, it's probably best to keep your wound dry by having a wash instead of a shower.

    I wish you all the best with your recovery.