fullness in esophagus

Question
I am 2 1/2 weeks post op from gatric sleeve surgery.  I stop all liquids 30 min. before/after eating but I am really having trouble getting blended foods down.  It takes me 45 min. to an hour too eat 1/2 C cottage cheese and I feel so full in my esophagus area for hours.  Getting liquids down is even hard.  I constantly feel the urge to belch but not able to.  Is this normal and do you have any suggestions on the fullness in esophagus?  Also, what about taking an anti acid med.?

Answer
Hi Theresa:

Usually, that fullness in your esophagus feeling means that you've eating a little bit too much.  Remember, at 2-1/2 weeks out, your stomach is still quite swollen from surgery.  So you really may not be able to eat a lot.  Just wait a few days and try again.  Don't worry, it will get easier!

You may want to try waiting another few days or a week before trying blended foods.  Some surgeons recommend a full liquid diet for a full three weeks following surgery.  Your stomach may just not be ready yet.

I definitely recommend asking your surgeon for a Rx for a Proton Pump Inhibitor med like Prilosec, Prevacid or Nexium. You can also buy these at a lower dose over the counter.  Many people stay on these meds for at least six months after surgery.

Regarding trouble getting liquids down, try varying the temperature of the liquids you drink.  Some people do better with room temperature liquids, other prefer warm or cold.  You may find one works best for you.

Good luck!

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