Nausea and Vomiting After Surgery: Care Instructions

Overview

After you've had surgery, you may feel sick to your stomach (nauseated) or you may vomit. Sometimes the medicine to keep you comfortable or asleep (anesthesia) can make you feel sick. It's a common side effect and often doesn't last long. After the anesthesia wears off, you may feel pain from the incision (cut). Pain itself or taking pain medicine can also make you feel sick to your stomach.

Whatever the cause, you may get medicine that can help. There are also some things you can do at home to prevent nausea and feel better.

The doctor has checked you carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Take your pain medicine as soon as you have pain. It works better if you take it before the pain gets bad.
• Call your doctor if you have any problems with your medicine.
• Rest until you feel better.
• To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids. Choose water and other clear liquids until you feel better. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
• When you feel like eating, start with small amounts of food. Try clear soups, mild foods, and liquids until all your symptoms are gone. Other good choices include dry toast, crackers, cooked cereal, and gelatin dessert. Avoid high-fat foods, spicy foods, and foods with a lot of sugar.
• Don’t smoke, vape, or use other tobacco or nicotine products. Smoking and being around smoke can make nausea worse. These things also slow healing and recovery. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about quit programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.
• You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
• You have worse nausea or vomiting and you cannot keep down fluids.
• You have symptoms of dehydration, such as:
  • Dry eyes and a dry mouth.
  • Passing only a little urine.
  • Feeling thirstier than usual.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.