After abdominal surgery, returning to normal bowel function, including passing gas, is a common and expected part of recovery. A temporary slowdown in this process can cause discomfort, making it an important aspect of post-surgical care.
Understanding Post-Surgery Bowel Function
The digestive system often slows down or temporarily stops after abdominal surgery, a condition known as postoperative ileus (POI). This slowdown can lead to an accumulation of gas and fluids within the bowel. Factors contributing to POI include the effects of anesthesia, pain medications, and the manipulation of the intestines during the surgical procedure.
General anesthesia can paralyze muscles and halt intestinal movement. Pain medications, especially opioids, significantly slow the digestive tract’s motility. The direct handling of intestines during surgery can also disrupt their normal contractions.
The return of gas passage indicates the bowels are “waking up” and functioning normally. This helps reduce bloating, nausea, and other potential complications.
Practical Steps to Encourage Gas Passage
Gentle movement is an effective way to stimulate bowel activity after surgery. As soon as medically cleared, early and frequent ambulation, such as short walks, helps promote blood flow and encourages the gastrointestinal tract to resume its normal function. Even small movements, like shifting positions in bed or gentle leg exercises, can contribute to gas movement. Walking also reduces the risk of blood clots and can shorten hospital stays.
Maintaining adequate hydration is important for digestive health. Drinking plenty of non-carbonated fluids, such as water or clear broths, as tolerated, helps soften stools and facilitates the passage of gas and bowel movements. Warm liquids, like mint or ginger tea, can be soothing and helpful for gas relief. Slowly sipping fluids rather than drinking rapidly can also prevent swallowing excess air.
Dietary choices play a role in managing post-surgical gas. Initially, easily digestible foods are recommended, with a gradual progression to a regular diet as tolerated. Temporarily avoid foods known to produce gas, such as beans, broccoli, cabbage, or carbonated beverages, if they cause discomfort. Chewing food thoroughly and eating slowly can also minimize the amount of air swallowed.
Specific body positions and gentle techniques can aid gas passage. Lying on the left side can help gas move through the bowels. Gentle abdominal massage, moving in a circular motion, can also stimulate the intestines and release trapped gas. Some yoga poses, such as the “happy baby” or knee-to-chest, can help relax the body and encourage gas expulsion.
Effective pain management is important because severe pain can inhibit movement and relaxation, both of which are conducive to bowel function. While pain medications, especially opioids, can contribute to slowed bowel function, managing pain allows patients to be more active, which ultimately aids recovery. Over-the-counter medications like simethicone may be helpful, as they work by breaking down gas bubbles; seek medical approval before use. Deep breathing exercises, engaging the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, can also gently stimulate the digestive system.
Recognizing When to Contact Your Doctor
While temporary changes in bowel function are common after abdominal surgery, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe or worsening abdominal pain, persistent nausea or vomiting, or an inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement for over 2-3 days.
Other concerning signs include significant abdominal distension, fever, chills, or rapid heartbeat. These could indicate a prolonged ileus or mechanical obstruction, requiring prompt evaluation and intervention.