Thoughts On Drinking Through A Straw?

[bobheist 85]

I was told that no one was ever going to spend money to fund a study on straw use and so I should do what works for me...I started using a straw a few weeks post-op and haven't had any problems. I agree (at least for me) that it is far easier to get all of my liquids in when using a straw.

[Seela 1,187]

Fyi... ok so I called my surgeon and the said emphatically NO! They were very adamant about it and so now I guess ill just.. I don't know... give it more thought I guess. Thanks all

[newat52 1,612]

I really wonder why your surgeon is so against it. Does he have medical fact that most other surgeons do not? There are lots of folks here that were offered straws in the hospital.

I really am curious.

[Ericm 0]

I'm one month post op and I've been using a straw since 1st week. .I don't recall being told not to use a straw. .Actually think I'm less apt to gulp using a straw rather than drink from a cup. .I sip. .incredible how much liquid one can consume by merely sipping. .But I wouldn't go against your docs advice. .

[Seela 1,187]

I really wonder why your surgeon is so against it. Does he have medical fact that most other surgeons do not? There are lots of folks here that were offered straws in the hospital.

I really am curious.

They told me very strongly that it would cause more air.. pain.. less consumption etc..etc..etc.. same line same hook. Guess I'll just go along for now

[7 Bites_Jen 479]

I have used a straw since I got home from the hospital. During the early phases you CAN take in too much air and it can be a problem for some people. It wasn't for me. I would definitely talk to your doc about it and get his reasons behind it. If you can try a sip or two and tolerate it, I don't see why it would be a problem, though...

[marfar7 1,528]

Also a straw user. Ok'd by dr at 4 weeks. I use straws about 75% of the time. My water bottle has a straw, my gym bottle has a straw. It would suck to not be able to use them

[LipstickLady 25,682]

It would suck to not be able to use them

Or, it wouldn't suck. HA! See what I did there?

[Steamywindows 39]

While I do not intent to contradict specific medical advise, I think it is reasonable, given the variance of recommendations to ask the surgeon for the level of evidence which these recommendations are being based on. In most cases, we try to use evidence in health care, but as an earlier poster commented, it is unlikely straw use will get research funding, so there is not likely much to go on. My hunch is this is based on anecdotal evidence ( the experience and or belief of the surgeon), and would be considered by them, to be prudent since it does not cause harm to recommend NO use of straws and serves to prevent gas, pain etc.. I would be interested if this was not the case.

I would suggest asking yourself:

1. What do I know about the real risk?

2. Is there a benefit which out-ways the risk?

3. Can I test this is a small or less risky way?

4. Am I prepared for the consequences..my surgeon's concern/anger, gas, pain, etc...

At the end of the day we are responsible for our choices, and health care professions (I am a nurse) are neither omnipotent or infallible. Good luck with you choice, I applaud your thoughtful consideration of the issue.

[Mel1071 149]

My doc says straws are ok. Funny how everyone has their differences!

[DonRodolfo 1,416]

It would suck to not be able to use them

Or, it wouldn't suck. HA! See what I did there?

[facepalm] Really?

[DonRodolfo 1,416]

I really wonder why your surgeon is so against it. Does he have medical fact that most other surgeons do not? There are lots of folks here that were offered straws in the hospital.

I really am curious.

They told me very strongly that it would cause more air.. pain.. less consumption etc..etc..etc.. same line same hook. Guess I'll just go along for now

I was told the same. Do what your surgeon tells you!

[LipstickLady 25,682]

It would suck to not be able to use them

Or, it wouldn't suck. HA! See what I did there?

[facepalm] Really?

Sigh...you are the only one who "gets" me.

[newat52 1,612]

It would suck to not be able to use them

Or, it wouldn't suck. HA! See what I did there?

[facepalm] Really?

Sigh...you are the only one who "gets" me.

I got it. I chuckled when I read it.

[LipstickLady 25,682]

It would suck to not be able to use them

Or, it wouldn't suck. HA! See what I did there?

[facepalm] Really?

Sigh...you are the only one who "gets" me.

I got it. I chuckled when I read it.

This is why you two are my favs!