How to Get Rid of a Bloated Stomach After Surgery?

After a procedure, you may experience some normal changes, like pain and swelling. Bloating is also common, but it can leave your stomach feeling unusually tight, full and uncomfortable, even when you haven't eaten much.

Changes in your diet, constipation and pain medicines, in addition to reduced physical activity and anesthesia, can all slow your digestive system. The good news? Mild bloating often eases as your digestion slowly returns to normal.

Why Is My Stomach Bloated After Surgery

There are a few possible reasons and sometimes more than one is happening at the same time.

After surgery, your digestive system can be a little slower than usual (1). Anesthesia & some pain medicines can affect bowel movements, while staying in bed more than usual can add to the problem.

How to Relieve Bloating After Surgery

There are no fast and easy fixes for bloating after surgery. Here are a few tips to get your digestive system moving again.

1. Take short walks

If your surgeon is OK with you walking, try to do a few short walks throughout the day.

You don't need a workout. Walk around your room, your house, or the hallway for a few minutes at a time. Even small amounts of movement can be helpful when you're spending more time sitting or lying down.

And honestly, don't push yourself just because walking is good for you. You're recovering from surgery.

2. Drink water throughout the day

Dehydration can make constipation worse, which can make bloating worse too.

Keep drinking fluids throughout the day unless your doctor has told you to restrict them.

3. Eat smaller meals

Your stomach may struggle with a large meal.

Try smaller portions and eat slowly. You can gradually return to your normal eating pattern as your appetite & digestion improve.

Check out: What to Eat Before and After Surgery for Faster Recovery.

4. Limit gas producing foods

Some foods and fizzy drinks can make gas and bloating worse.

You don't have to completely change your diet. Just pay attention to how you feel after eating.

5. Get constipation under control

Constipation can add to the pressure and bloating after surgery. Check with your surgeon before taking a laxative, stool softener, or fiber supplement.

6. Give your body some time

This part is easy to forget.

Your body has just been through surgery. Your digestion doesn't necessarily return to normal at the same speed as your energy or appetite.

If the bloating is slowly improving, that's generally more reassuring than bloating that keeps getting worse.

Take HealFast Cleanse for Bloating and Constipation

Bloating is often caused by constipation. Supporting normal bowel function may help relieve the heavy, bloated feeling.

Our Bowel and Colon Cleanse Supplements are formulated with fiber and digestive-support ingredients, including psyllium husk, oat, alfalfa and Lactobacillus acidophilus. It's designed to support bowel regularity and digestive comfort, which can be useful when constipation is contributing to bloating.

Some ingredients in Cleanse, including stimulant laxative herbs, may not be appropriate for everyone during recovery. So, always check with your surgeon before taking. 

How Long Does Your Stomach Stay Bloated After Surgery

It depends on the type of surgery, your medications, bowel movements, activity level, diet and how your body reacts.

For some people, the bloating starts to settle within a few days. After abdominal or bowel surgery, though, changes in digestion and bowel movements can take longer.

Don't focus only on how many days you've been bloated. Pay attention to whether things are getting better, staying the same, or getting worse.

When Is Bloating Not Normal After Surgery

Get medical care if you experience: 

• Extreme or worsening abdominal pain
• Increasing abdominal swelling
• Repeated vomiting
• Fever or chills
• Trouble keeping food or fluids down
• Inability to pass gas
• Weakness, dizziness, or difficulty breathing

Simple Routine for Post-Surgery Bloating

The following habits can help you manage bloating:

Morning:
Drink some water → have a light breakfast → take a short walk

During the day:
Eat smaller meals → keep drinking fluids → get up and move around regularly

At night:
Have a lighter meal if large meals make you uncomfortable → follow your prescribed medications → pay attention to your bowel movements

Related Articles:

Pain Management After Surgery

Post-Surgery Fatigue: Causes, Recovery Tips and When to Worry

Prebiotics vs Probiotics: Which Supports Healing Better

FAQs

1. Can I take carbonated drinks if I have bloating after surgery?

It may be better to limit carbonated drinks if they make you feel more bloated or gassy (2). 

2. Can you massage your stomach to relieve post-surgical bloating?

It depends on your surgery and where you’re in the recovery stage. Gentle abdominal massage can sometimes help with ordinary gas or constipation, but you shouldn't massage newly operated areas. 

3. Is bloating worse at night?

It may feel worse at night after eating throughout the day or resting more. If the swelling is consistently getting worse, let your healthcare provider know. 

References:

1. Mari, A., Abu Backer, F., Mahamid, M., Amara, H., Carter, D., Boltin, D., & Dickman, R. (2019). Bloating and abdominal distension: Clinical approach and management. Advances in Therapy, 36(5), 1075–1084. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6824367/

2. Everyday Health. (n.d.). 7 drinks that can cause gas and bloating. https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/drinks-that-cause-gas-bloating/