I had my gastric sleeve surgery on December 27, 2021. I have always had gas problems years before surgery and I’m lactose intolerant which I’ve always taken supplements like gas prevention and a pill that helps digest lactose before every meal. Now post surgery I’m having so much gas pain when I eat or drink anything. It makes me stop eating or drinking. It’s like a terrible gas cramp when any type of food or fluid hits my stomach. I feel like I have another problem besides gas pain I think I’m dehydrated. I have not been able to advance to full liquid diet. I’m still on clear liquid mostly Gatorade. I did take Gasx helped for a little while but came back. I feel like I just made a big mistake by getting this surgery.

So one key is to take tiny little sips all throughout the day. And you're not using a straw, are you? No straws! You don't want excess gas getting in there. Keep in mind too that they filled your stomach full of gas to have the surgery and it takes a while to work its way out.

No. I’m not using straws. Thank you for you advice. I can use as much as possible.

I heard many experience gas after surgery no matter if your sleeved or RNY. And heard it does get better. I had a RNY and did experience some issues but not horribly. Hope this helps.

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Thank you for your reply. Yes it helps. It makes me feel a little better to know others have gone through this also and eventually it resolves.

I had surgery December 28, I noticed I was having pain from propel water. Today I started drinking room temp water and it’s for sure helped . Also walking has helped . I hope you feel better .

If you have signs of dehydration such as dark urine contact your clinic and they should be able to arrange for you to get fluids somewhere as an out patient. I was so worried I was gonna end up back in the hospital about this. I didn’t realize that it was not really a big deal to get fluids.

Thank you.

The possible dehydration is a concern. Go to your nearest hospital or medical centre as you may need some IV fluids. As @ShoppGirl said getting IV fluids isn’t a big deal but being dehydrated is.

It takes a good week for the gas they used to inflate your abdomen during surgery to escape. You’ll probably notice discomfort in your shoulder - a sign the gas is slowly dissipating. Walking, even around your home, is the best treatment besides GasX.

Difficulty with swallowing is from post surgical swelling. It improves a lot after a few days. I found warm liquids more soothing too like @Lindsayleigh86. Make sure you’re sipping slowly as well to avoid taking in more gas and no carbonated liquids.

If you’re lactose intolerant, watch the protein shakes when you start them as many are based on lactose. Are lots of lactose free ones available but you may have to look about to find the right ones for you. Plenty of lactose free yoghurts, milk, cheese etc available too for when you’re ready.

It’s a pretty major surgery & it takes a while for you to fully heal & recover. Plus it’s a huge change to your life & everything is new & different. So it’s ok to have doubts. It does get better.