My discharge instructions say I can't use a straw. Anyone know why?

You're likely to swallow air along with whatever you're drinking..which can be problematic. You'll probably feel bloated.

It's just cause it can cause you extra gas, which is the last thing you want more of right now. I am 3 months post op and now enjoy using a straw to force me to drink slower, but I have to pay the price of extra gas pain if I am not careful.

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When I woke up from surgery there was a juice box with a straw waiting. I've been drinking from straws since.

My info also told me not to drink through a straw, but when I asked the PA at my surgeon's office, he said it's ok as long as it doesn't cause me problems. It's funny, because I thought it wouldn't be any big deal to go without a straw, but then after the surgery I realized just how often I do use a straw! So far I haven't had any problems from using one.

Try drinking through a straw. You'll quickly learn why you're not supposed to

I loved drinking from a straw especially when I was trying to swallow crushed pills! I did fine with a straw.

I also was given a straw right after surgery too, didn't have any problems... but I was very conscious of how slow I was drinking too, I didn't try to gulp anything down.

I wasn't warned of the straw issue and today I am 2 days post op. I started using a straw thinking it might help me sip smaller but I have had a very difficult time drinking today and not until I saw this post was I able to put 2 and 2 together. I just described the feeling to my mom as if there is a funnel with syrup going down and there are air bubbles making it difficult for it to slide down like it should. I will be tossing the straws out right away. (maybe the small juice box straws dont suck as much air in.) anyways I am again thankful for the information on this site!