How long is the hospital stay for an ulcer operation? When can I go out? When can I go back to work?

The hospital stay is about two weeks. You can go out immediately after you get home, but you should allow six weeks before you are really able to go back to work full time. Of course, you can resume some desk work earlier. But most patients require this time for complete readjustment.

You can eat everything but start with six small meals a day, at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Later ease gradually back to your usual routine. The surgeon will generally want to see you three weeks after you've left the hospital. He will check the incision and evaluate your progress. If you encounter any problems, write them down and discuss them when you come back. If any urgent problems arise, phone the surgeon.

How will I know if I'm cured? 

If you are eating well, have no discomfort, and can enjoy a normal life, then you're cured. You'll know whether you are cured by the way you feel.

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