When Pain After Surgery Isn’t Normal

Let’s be honest surgery hurts. You expect to feel sore, stiff, maybe a little tired. That’s just part of the healing process, right?

Most of the time, yes. But what happens when that pain doesn’t go away? Or when it changes gets sharper, deeper, or more intense than you expected? You may start wondering: “Is this still normal… or is something wrong?”

If you're recovering from surgery and something feels off, this blog is for you. Let’s talk about when post-surgical pain is expected, and when it's a sign you need to call your doctor.

Normal Pain vs. Problem Pain: What’s the Difference?

After most surgeries especially abdominal or hernia repair—you’ll experience:

• Mild to moderate soreness around the incision site

• Tightness or pulling sensations when you move

• Tiredness and discomfort, especially in the first week

• A dull ache that gradually improves over time

These types of pain typically respond to rest, gentle movement, and pain medications. And they get better each day not worse.

But pain that feels different, stronger, or spreads to unexpected places? That’s your body saying: “Hey, something’s not right here.”

When Pain After Surgery Isn’t Normal

Here are some clear signs that your pain may need medical attention:

1. Sudden, Sharp, or Stabbing Pain

If your pain suddenly becomes sharp or stabbing especially after you've started to feel better—that’s a red flag. It might be a torn suture, a hernia recurrence, or internal bleeding.

2. Pain That Gets Worse Instead of Better

Surgical pain should decrease gradually. If you're on day 4 or 5 and your pain is increasing, not decreasing, that’s not typical healing.

3. Pain With Swelling or a New Bulge

If pain comes with a visible lump, bulge, or swelling near your incision, you may be dealing with a hernia recurrence, fluid buildup, or infection. All of these need a doctor’s evaluation.

4. Burning or Throbbing Pain With Redness

Is the area around your incision hot, red, or pulsing with pain? That could indicate an infection. You might also notice:

• Fever

• Chills

• Fatigue

• Pus or discharge from the incision

Don’t wait to see if it goes away call your surgeon right away.

5. Pain That Radiates or Travels

Pain moving into your legs, groin, shoulder, or chest? That’s not typical post-op discomfort. It could be a nerve issue, internal complication, or referred pain from a deeper problem.

What Could Be Causing Abnormal Pain?

Several possibilities could be behind persistent or unusual post-surgery pain:

• Infection: One of the most common post-op complications.

• Hematoma or Seroma: Blood or fluid trapped under the skin causing pressure.

• Nerve Irritation: Especially after laparoscopic or hernia surgeries.

• Recurrent Hernia: The surgical repair has weakened or reopened.

• Adhesions or Scar Tissue: Internal tissues sticking together can cause pain and restriction.

• Strangulated Hernia (in rare cases): When blood supply is cut off this is a medical emergency.

Don’t Try to Tough It Out

We get it no one wants to seem overly anxious or dramatic after surgery. But ignoring abnormal pain isn’t strength; it’s risky.

Your body is your best expert. If something feels off, there’s no harm in getting it checked. In fact, catching a complication early can prevent it from becoming serious or even life-threatening.

Here’s the truth: surgeons would much rather you call for something small than ignore something big.

When Should You Call Your Doctor?

Call your healthcare provider if:

• Your pain is sharp, increasing, or radiating

• You have fever, chills, or discharge

• You feel nauseous or are vomiting

• Your incision looks red, hot, or swollen

• You notice a bulge or hard lump

• You can’t walk, sleep, or eat because of the pain

• You feel anxious that something isn’t right

Trust your gut it’s better to over-ask than underreact.

What Can Help Ease the Pain Safely?

While waiting for your follow-up or evaluation:

• Apply cold packs (if cleared by your doctor) to reduce swelling

• Avoid straining or lifting heavy objects

• Use prescribed pain medications don’t “tough it out” unnecessarily

• Elevate the area if there’s swelling

• Stay hydrated and nourished to support healing

• Take short, gentle walks to improve circulation

But remember these are only short-term comforts. If your pain is not improving, don’t mask it. Address it.

Final Thoughts: Pain Is a Message, Not a Weakness

Recovering from surgery isn’t just physical it’s emotional too. You may be tired, worried, or frustrated. That’s okay.

But if you’re in pain that doesn’t seem normal, you’re not overreacting you’re being wise.

There’s a difference between healing pain and pain that signals something’s wrong. Learn to recognize that line. Talk to your doctor. And don’t suffer in silence.

You deserve to heal safely, fully, and with peace of mind. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Your body is talking listen to it.