Hiccups After Bariatric Surgery? Here’s How to Fix It

Written by Kristen Carli, RD and medically reviewed by Dr. Stephen Boyce, MD

After bariatric surgery, you can expect to make a variety of changes to your diet and lifestyle to properly heal from these significant alterations to your body. With these changes come some unfortunate side effects like hiccups. While hiccups may seem harmless, they can be uncomfortable and even signal issues with your eating habits or recovery process. In this article, we’ll explore why hiccups occur after bariatric surgery, what they might mean for your body, and, most importantly, how to manage and prevent them so you can focus on your healing journey.

Why Do Hiccups Occur After Bariatric Surgery?

There are a few reasons why hiccups could occur after bariatric surgery. The first relates to the reduction in stomach size that occurs during procedures like gastric sleeve. The new size of the stomach can irritate the diaphragm, sometimes leading to involuntary contractions. In some cases, these contractions may be accompanied by pain after bariatric surgery, particularly if eating or drinking habits aren’t adjusted.

It’s also possible that you are not yet used to eating slowly and more deliberately, after surgery. Because bariatric procedures alter the digestive tract, you must chew your food thoroughly and be cautious not to eat food too quickly. Both of these common missteps can cause you to swallow air, which can result in hiccups or even chest pain after bariatric surgery, especially if excessive gas builds up.

Incorporating bariatric vitamins and supplements like bariatric protein shakes and bariatric multivitamins can support your recovery while ensuring proper nutrition. Additionally, chewable forms such as bariatric vitamins chewable make it easier to integrate these into your daily routine, reducing digestive discomfort.

What Causes Burping After Bariatric Surgery?

Like hiccups, burping can also be caused from eating or drinking too quickly due to the swallowing of air. This excess air builds up in the stomach leading to uncomfortable bloating and eventually burping.

Additionally, after bariatric surgery, it’s crucial to avoid carbonated beverages. These can introduce more gas into the digestive system, causing you to burp. However, even more importantly, consuming carbonated beverages after bariatric surgery can further suppress nutrient absorption and even cause your stomach pouch to stretch.

Certain foods even produce more gas in our intestines than others. Beans, broccoli, and onions, for example, are some of the most common gassy foods. While your GI tract is designed to handle gas produced through digestion, after bariatric procedures, you may need to take it easy on these foods. Because your digestive tract is altered during surgery, you will need to be more cautious in the foods you select in order to avoid burping. 

Adding bariatric snacks, such as bariatric protein bars, can be a convenient way to maintain balanced nutrition without straining your digestive system.

Relationship Between Hiccups and Burping

Both hiccups and burping are common side effects of bariatric surgery. Typically, they occur in the first few months after the procedure as your body is healing and you are getting accustomed to your new diet.

The swallowing of excess air that occurs when you eat too fast can lead to the accumulation of gas. Additionally, without chewing your food thoroughly, you run the risk of causing digestive strain. Alterations in the size of your stomach and function after bariatric surgery can disrupt normal digestive processes, making you more susceptible to both hiccups and burping. 

Managing Hiccups and Burping After Surgery

Wanting to find relief? The first step is to make sure you consume your meals slowly. Take your time to thoroughly chew your food to reduce air swallowing. Additionally, while it may be challenging, try to avoid talking to others as you eat. This practice of mindful eating is not only helpful to avoid hiccups and burping, but it’s also a great way to tune into your hunger and fullness cues. 

Also, when you are sitting down to eat a meal, try not to drink large amounts. This will help keep air ingestion to a minimum. Lastly, be sure to steer clear of carbonated beverages. This will help to not only minimize gas but it will also allow your stomach to heal properly, avoiding stretching out. 

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

If you’re suffering from relentless burping or hiccups, it may be time to seek medical attention. If these symptoms last for longer than 48 hours, reach out to a healthcare professional to get evaluated. 

Additionally, if you are feeling significant discomfort, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing alongside hiccups or burping, you should see a doctor immediately. Hiccups and burping do not typically cause pain, so any  irritation like left side pain after bariatric surgery should be cause for concern.

Lastly, if you have a fever or are vomiting, contact your physician right away. It’s important to make sure that you are not suffering from a post-surgical complication or infection.

Hiccups and burping after bariatric surgery can be frustrating, but they are often manageable with the right strategies and mindful habits. By eating slowly, avoiding carbonated beverages, and choosing your foods carefully, you can reduce these symptoms and support your recovery. Remember, your body is adjusting to significant changes, and patience is key. However, if these symptoms persist or are accompanied by other concerning signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. 

Conclusion

Hiccups and burping are common after bariatric surgery due to changes in the digestive system. They can be managed by eating slowly, chewing thoroughly, avoiding carbonated beverages, and choosing easily digestible foods. Products like Bari Life protein bars and chewable vitamins support recovery while minimizing digestive discomfort.

If these symptoms persist for over 48 hours or are accompanied by pain, fever, or difficulty swallowing, consult a healthcare provider. With mindful habits and patience, you can reduce discomfort and focus on healing effectively.

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