Question:
2 days post-op, can't keep down much water or food

I have a continual feeling of having to burp. When I drink anything (sipping water even), in a few minutes I feel compelled to belch and it usually comes right out. Does anyone else know about this? Will it get better. I can keep down small quanitities of water but not much else.    — CarleneG (posted on February 27, 2009)

February 27, 2009
Carlene -- while you didn't say what surgery you had, I'm not sure you should be having food two days out. I didn't even have LIQUIDS until two days out when I had my surgery in 2000 (although things have likely changed since then). The feeling like you need to burp is quite normal -- you're still healing from the surgery and nothing feels right at first. It DOES get better, as you heal more and learn what can set off the belches. For me it was trying to drink and talk at the same time -- I swallowed too much air. I wouldn't be worried about not being able to hold food down at this point -- it's too soon to be eating anyway. But hang in there, baby, it DOES get better. Blessings,
   — Cheryl Denomy

February 27, 2009
I was told that happened because the amount your drinking/eating is too large. You need to take much smaller sips/bites.
   — chickepoo

February 27, 2009
yeah I was still drinking liquids at 2 days post op, so I'm not sure what to tell you. But the feeling of having to burp is quite normal. Even if your surgeon told you its fine to eat food, try to keep them to soft foods and liquid shakes until the week is out.
   — slimcolagirl

February 27, 2009
I had that problem. I had RNY 8/28 and I still belch more than I did pre op but get some chewable gas-x or the strips. I use 2 chewables every couple of hours and I really makes a difference. Now, it will always be worse for the first week becuse they pump you full of air for the surgery.
   — phyllismmay

February 27, 2009
Congratulations on the surgery. I had mine Frb. 12th. It was spectacular! I had it done in Mexico and I would do it all over again...The feeling of needing to belch is normal. There are gases from surgery that have to be released. I only drank clear liquids for a week then slowly started on pureed. Take it very slow. Walk alot, and be patient. You are in the healing process and the slower you go trying to take in real food the better. When I had to belch, I got out of my chair and went for a walk around the block or house. You will feel much better. Hope all goes well. It's a wonderful life now!
   — janeen4947

February 27, 2009
Hi, I would call the surgeon and run it by him/her just to be on the safe side. Make sure whatever you're eating is ok. I'd rather be safe than sorry.
   — jeannefitz

March 1, 2009
hi sometime you still have gas in your stomach from the surgery and can do that too. i also did that and try to drink im almost 5 weeks out and still am having problems drinking i already been to the er for dehydration and feel i am now. it is so hard to drink 64ozs of water or liquds a day for me anyway.i try but its hard everyone is differant . good luck
   — BETTYSH123

March 1, 2009
Hi... 2days post op... I would not think that your surgeon would want you eating food. You usually are on clear or full liquids by then... and a couple of tablespoons at a time. and take them in SLOWLY. You have to figure that your stomach is swollen and still in the healing process and will be for some time. The feeling of having to burp is normal. Be sure that you are NOT drinking any carbonated beverages. If you are following your post op instructions to the LETTER, then contact your surgeon with your concerns... good luck
   — Kari_K