Recovering from surgery usually goes smoothly, but caregivers and patients should stay alert for warning signs. Early attention can prevent serious post-surgical complications and even save lives.
Quick Answer: What Are the Signs of Infection After Surgery?
Common signs of post-surgical complications include excessive bleeding, severe or worsening pain, high fever, redness or pus around the incision, and difficulty breathing. Other warning signs may involve sudden leg swelling, confusion, or trouble urinating. Seek immediate medical care if these symptoms appear.
1. Excessive Bleeding
A small amount of oozing or spotting is normal for the first 24–48 hours after surgery, but heavy or persistent bleeding is not. Caregivers should monitor the wound closely and respond quickly if excessive bleeding occurs.
What to Do at Home:
- Apply direct pressure with a sterile dressing or clean cloth.
- Do not remove soaked bandages—add more layers on top.
- Keep the injured area elevated above heart level, if possible.
- Watch for signs of shock such as paleness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, or shivering.
- Avoid unnecessary movement and call emergency services immediately if bleeding continues or worsens.
2. Severe or Worsening Pain
Some pain is expected after surgery, but if pain becomes sharper, more intense, or unrelieved by prescribed medication, it may indicate a problem such as infection, bleeding, or nerve injury. Contact your doctor if the pain keeps getting worse instead of improving each day.
3. Signs of Infection
Redness, swelling, pus, fever, or chills are classic warning signs of infection. Caregivers should also monitor temperature, pulse, and breathing rate regularly. If the wound appears red, hot, or has foul-smelling drainage, seek medical help immediately—infections spread fast and can become serious.
If you’re caring for someone recovering at home, learn these Basic Care Skills: Hygiene and Infection Control to prevent infection and support safe healing.
4. Difficulty Breathing or Chest Pain
Shortness of breath or chest pain is never normal after surgery. These may signal a blood clot, pneumonia, or even a heart attack. Call emergency services right away if this occurs.
While Waiting for Help:
- Keep the person upright or semi-upright; the “tripod” position (leaning forward with arms supported) can ease breathing.
- Loosen tight clothing, such as collars or belts.
- Stay calm and offer reassurance—anxiety worsens shortness of breath.
- Do not give food or drink.
- If coughing causes pain, have the patient hold a pillow against the incision for support.
You can also read our guide on Caring for a Loved One After a Heart Attack for more tips on post-hospital recovery and caregiver support
5. Persistent Nausea or Vomiting
Mild nausea after anaesthesia is common, but persistent vomiting can cause dehydration or indicate an infection or reaction to medication. If vomiting continues beyond a few hours or prevents fluid intake, contact your doctor immediately.
6. Sudden Swelling in Legs or Arms
Pain, redness, or swelling—especially in one leg—can signal deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a dangerous blood clot that may travel to the lungs. This is a medical emergency. Call for immediate medical attention if swelling appears suddenly.
7. Unusual Discharge from the Wound
Clear drainage may be normal, but green, yellow, or foul-smelling discharge often means infection. Do not wait—call your doctor if you notice any change in colour, odour, or amount of discharge.
8. High Fever That Doesn’t Go Away
A mild fever can be part of normal healing, but a persistent temperature above 101°F (38.3°C) signals infection or inflammation. Monitor temperature twice daily and seek medical advice if the fever lasts more than a day or worsens.
9. Difficulty Passing Urine or Stool
Trouble urinating or severe constipation after surgery can result from anaesthesia, medications, or complications. Encourage adequate fluids and gentle movement, but contact your doctor if the issue persists.
10. Confusion or Sudden Weakness
If a patient suddenly becomes confused, dizzy, or weak, it may indicate infection, stroke, or an adverse drug reaction. This is an emergency—seek medical care immediately.
Conclusion
Most surgeries heal well, but recognising the danger signs enables caregivers to act early. If you notice any of these post-surgical complications, don’t wait—trust your instincts and call your doctor. Quick action can prevent serious problems and protect recovery.
Further Reading:
- For detailed medical guidance on post-surgery care, visit the American College of Surgeons’ Patient Education section. (opens in new tab)
- You can also explore Mayo Clinic’s guide to recognizing post-surgical infection symptoms. (opens in new tab)
FAQs
Mild swelling is common, but sudden or painful swelling may mean a blood clot. Get it checked.
A fever above 101°F (38.3°C) that doesn’t go away is a warning sign. Contact your doctor.
If pain is sharp, worsening, or not relieved by medicine, it may signal a problem.
Mild nausea is common, but ongoing vomiting requires medical care.
Go immediately if you experience chest pain, breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, or severe bleeding.
