Nausea and Vomiting After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects after gastric sleeve surgery. Understanding the causes and knowing how to manage these symptoms can significantly improve your post-operative experience. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and stay informed about effective remedies and preventative measures.

Why Nausea and Vomiting Occur

Nausea and vomiting after gastric sleeve surgery can be caused by several factors. These include the reduced size of the stomach, dietary changes, and the body’s adjustment to the new digestive system. Understanding these causes can help in effectively managing the symptoms:

  1. Reduced Stomach Size: The surgery significantly reduces the size of the stomach, making it more sensitive to the volume and type of food consumed.
  2. Dietary Changes: Post-surgery dietary modifications, such as the introduction of new foods or changes in eating patterns, can trigger nausea and vomiting as the digestive system adjusts.
  3. Overeating: Consuming too much food at once can overwhelm the smaller stomach, leading to discomfort, nausea, and vomiting.
  4. Eating Too Quickly: Rapid eating can prevent adequate chewing and lead to larger food particles entering the stomach, causing nausea.
  5. Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can lead to dehydration, which can cause nausea and other digestive issues.

Remedies to Counter Nausea and Vomiting

There are several strategies to help manage and reduce nausea and vomiting after gastric sleeve surgery:

  1. Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, aim for 5-6 small meals throughout the day to avoid overloading your stomach.
  2. Chew Thoroughly: Take small bites and chew your food thoroughly to aid digestion and reduce the risk of nausea.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids between meals, but avoid drinking large amounts during meals to prevent overfilling your stomach.
  4. Avoid Trigger Foods: Identify and avoid foods that trigger nausea. Common triggers include high-fat, spicy, or overly sweet foods.
  5. Eat Slowly: Take your time while eating, allowing your stomach to signal when it is full, which can help prevent nausea.
  6. Medication: Consult your healthcare provider about anti-nausea medications if necessary. These can provide relief from persistent symptoms.
  7. Follow Dietary Guidelines: Adhere strictly to the dietary guidelines provided by your healthcare team to ensure proper digestion and reduce nausea.

Please remember, this is our personal experience and not medical advice. For medical guidance, always consult your GP.