Gastric Sleeve and Nausea: What Patients Should Understand
Our weight loss surgery practice in Tijuana has helped countless patients achieve a more ideal weight and better general wellness in the process. In many cases this is achieved through gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy), an effective and popular bariatric procedure.
A potential side effect following weight loss surgery is nausea and vomiting. Let's take a moment right now to consider the causes of this side effect and what patients can do to reduce bouts of nausea following gastric sleeve surgery.
Why Nausea May Occur After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Both nausea and vomiting are common issues that bariatric surgery patients face after the procedure has been performed. In the vast majority of cases, these issues with nausea and vomiting are related to issues with the changes in a patient's diet and dietary needs and the adjustment period required to get used to these changes.
In rare instances, the nausea and vomiting may be the result of an ulcer that develops following surgery. If you notice frequent problems with nausea after you have undergone a gastric sleeve regardless if you abide by all dietary guidelines, be sure to speak with your bariatric surgeon or general practitioner about these matters.
About Dumping Syndrome
Another potential cause of nausea and vomiting is dumping syndrome. This is a condition that occurs in a number of bariatric surgery patients when food travels from the stomach to the small bowel faster that it should. Vomiting and nausea are potential symptoms of dumping syndrome, as is abdominal pain/cramps and diarrhea.
Ways to Avoid Nausea After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
When eating after bariatric surgery, be sure to avoid drinking while you eat. Chew slowly and savor your food, and make sure you are eating foods that will not give your stomach problems during digestion. Drink water between meals to stay hydrated, and be sure to stay away from carbonated beverages and beverages that are caffeinated.
Refer to the dietary guidelines outlined by your bariatric surgeon as these will be ideal for avoiding major issues such as ulcers and dumping syndrome.
Will issues with nausea improve with time?
Generally yes.
As you heal from surgery and as you get used to your new diet and eating habits, you should experience fewer issues with nausea, vomiting, and dumping syndrome. This is all part of a process of getting to understand your body and your new dietary needs. Be patient and be diligent, and you should be able to notice what triggers the nausea and how it can be avoided.
What if nausea persists years after the surgery?
Some patients may notice recurring issues with nausea years down the road. This is generally rare, though it can occur. In such instances, it's important for patients to consult with their bariatric surgeon or general practitioner to undergo x-rays and determine if there is a serious health matter that is causing frequent bouts of nausea.
Schedule a Consultation for Gastric Sleeve Surgery
For more information about gastric sleeve surgery and your many other options for effective weight loss, we encourage you to contact our weight loss surgery center today.
