Managing Acid Reflux and Vomiting After Total Gastrectomy

Experiencing acid reflux and vomiting after a total gastrectomy is a common postoperative complication. If these symptoms are severe, it is essential to rule out potential issues such as anastomotic obstruction, intestinal blockage, or tumor recurrence through proper medical evaluation.

Once serious complications are ruled out, dietary adjustments become the primary approach for managing mild acid reflux and occasional vomiting. During the recovery period, patients should gradually reintroduce food, eating small meals more frequently throughout the day to avoid overloading the digestive system.

It is also important to chew food thoroughly and focus on a liquid or semi-liquid diet initially. This helps reduce the digestive workload and minimizes discomfort. Patients should avoid raw, cold, or hard-to-digest foods such as sticky rice and fatty or greasy meals.

Adopting healthy eating habits can significantly improve post-surgery digestion and reduce symptoms. In addition to dietary changes, maintaining an upright position after eating and avoiding lying down immediately can help prevent acid reflux.

Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are crucial to monitor recovery and adjust dietary or medical interventions as needed. With proper care and lifestyle modifications, many patients can manage these symptoms effectively and improve their quality of life after total gastrectomy.