With every swallow I get a pain then I feel like I need to burp. If I don't the next one is worse until I do burp. I was told burping is a sign of drinking too fast, but this is definitely not the case. Is this normal?

May be too much at one time. Try smaller sips.

I am taking very small sips-like it's hot or using a baby spoon only part full

You are very early out try taking gasx strips it helped me and acid reducer.

Please call your surgeon. It will put your mind to rest on the "normal" question. I do not believe it is normal...even with teh post op gas you should be able to swallow water.

If you're "slurping" like it's hot, are you taking in a lot of air?

I am not slurping, just the small amount is what I meant. I did jello, that was a little better, not every swallow. I am literally only taking in a slight trickle down my throat when I do sip now. That seems a little better.