Nausea After Bariatric Surgery? Here’s What You Can Do

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

Nausea can be a fairly common experience for many people after bariatric surgery. While these bariatric procedures are intended to support weight loss, the physical changes they create can also impact how the digestive system functions. This can lead to symptoms like nausea. Fortunately, it’s easy to manage these symptoms. Here’s a closer look at why post-surgery nausea occurs and practical tips to find relief, including suggestions on bariatric vitamins that may help during recovery.

What Are the Causes of Nausea After Bariatric Surgery?

There are many reasons why you may be feeling nauseous after bariatric surgery. Since these procedures significantly alter the digestive tract, you must take caution when eating. If you eat foods too quickly, in large quantities, or without chewing enough you may experience nausea. These restrictions on your eating can be a big adjustment, so make sure to reach out to your healthcare provider if you need more information.

If the diet is making you nauseous, you may have a complication from surgery. Nausea can be caused by strictures, ulcers, or bowel problems after bariatric surgery.

Lastly, the nausea could be from dumping syndrome after bariatric surgery. It is where the stomach empties too quickly into the small intestine. This is often triggered by high sugar or high fat foods.

What Are the Risk Factors for Nausea Following Bariatric Surgery?

While nausea after bariatric surgery is common, some may be more likely to experience it than others. Research shows that women are at a higher risk of experiencing nausea and vomiting after bariatric surgery. Additionally, those who have a prior history of motion sickness are more susceptible as well. Lastly, studies show that even non-smokers tend to have an increased risk of suffering from these symptoms after surgery. 

How Can Nausea Be Managed and Prevented After Bariatric Surgery?

If you are suffering from nausea after bariatric surgery, don’t fret! There are a few ways to manage your symptoms and get you back to feeling good. First, be sure to adhere to the dietary recommendations: eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and eat smaller portion sizes. Incorporating bariatric protein shakes can be a gentle way to add nutrition without causing discomfort.

Consult your doctor to see if you need medication to help reduce your nausea. Antiemetic medications such as ondansetron and metoclopramide can be great tools to manage postoperative nausea.

Lastly, you may need to implement anesthesia techniques. Talk to your physician to learn about how these techniques that minimize opioid use can help to reduce your nausea and vomiting symptoms. 

What Are Some Alternative and Emerging Treatments for Post-Bariatric Nausea?

Some alternative and new treatments may help. So, consider them. Changes to your diet, lifestyle, and medications may also help. Acupuncture and acupressure are complementary therapies. They may help reduce nausea and vomiting after surgery for weight loss. Additionally, ginger supplements may be a great tool. Ginger may help with nausea, but research is lacking on those who have had bariatric surgery. More research is needed. But, cannabinoids may help with your post-surgery nausea. If you have concerns about methods to manage nausea, contact your healthcare provider.

Why is Vitamin Intake and Addressing Deficiencies Important in Recovery?

Because your digestive system is altered during bariatric surgery, your body is less able to easily absorb nutrients. This means that it’s very important to remember to take your bariatric multivitamin with iron after surgery. Proper intake of vitamins will help to prevent nutritional deficiencies and support healing. A liquid bariatric vitamin option may also be easier to absorb, particularly for those struggling with nausea. 

Also, as you are also actively recovering from surgery, your surgical wounds require you to consume additional nutrients, like vitamin C and zinc, in order to properly heal.

While you are adjusting to all of these changes after surgery, it’s also a good idea to consume B vitamins. These nutrients help to keep you energized, so you can avoid fatigue and other complications. 

Know When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

While nausea is common after bariatric surgery, it’s important to know when you need to seek immediate attention and contact your healthcare provider. If your nausea and vomiting continues despite changes to your diet and medication or if your stomach pain increases, reach out to your physician. Additionally, if you suffer from other symptoms like dizziness, dark urine, or notice that you aren’t urinating as much as normal, please contact a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

While nausea is a common experience after bariatric surgery, understanding its causes and management strategies can make a significant difference in your recovery. By following dietary guidelines, staying mindful of portion sizes, and exploring options like medication or alternative treatments, you can find relief and support your body’s healing process. Remember, adjusting to life after bariatric surgery takes time, but with the right approach, you can navigate these challenges and enjoy the benefits of your procedure. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns, they are there to help you!

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