I had an abscess removed from my back last week. A sebaceous cyst I had had for years became infected.
I was admitted to hospital for 2 days and had an operation under GA to remove it and was left with a gaping wound that needs repacking and redressing every day.
I am finding it really hard coming to terms with the need for daily dressings etc. I am feeling faint and sick thinking about it, though I am putting on a brave face. It isn't hurting as much as I was led to believe (worse than childbirth apparently), i think because of the type of wound left (crater rather than a long narrow, tube-like hole). But still, it hurts and isn't pleasant. I think it's the thought of a long healing/recovery time that is making me feel ill and quite down about it. I can't wear a bra, I can't take my children swimming, I can't lie on my back without waking and it hurting.
So how long do these things generally take to heal? To the point of needing repacking every other day? To the point where pain doesn't occur anymore? tTo the point of being fully healed and never needing a nurse to repack it?
It's only been one week since I was admitted! I've been home a few days and TBH, I also have pain in my neck, shoulder, tummy etc because I am not 'holding' myself properly.
I just want it it end! I also feel let down because though the operation was on the 8th September, I was admitted on the 1st September by my GP who felt a minor procedure to remove the infection (it was not quite an abscess at this point but the infection was clear to see). The surgeon refused to remove it, citing they don't get paid unless it is causing an issue DESPITE the infection being clear as day! They prescribed antibiotics that never came so I had to ask my GP for some, knowing they wouldn't clear it and 6 days later, i found myself in 'this' mess.
I know people have harder things to deal with, but despite me saying all is fine and putting a smile on things, I am crumpling inside and can't see an end to it already!