Is Acid Reflux Common After Weight Loss Surgery?

I just threw up in my mouth. I know, that’s disgusting. Unfortunately, that has turned into a new thing for me. I am currently four years post-op and have been pretty lucky so far when it comes to my side effects. I struggled with acid reflux here and there after bariatric surgery, but it hasn’t been anything extreme…until now. Lately I have had so much pain in my chest after I eat. I also find myself throwing up in my mouth a lot more now. Why? I have no idea. Perhaps it is the types of foods that I am eating or maybe it’s just because I’m at a point in my weight loss surgery journey where this is now my normal. Either way, it is annoying.

I was just sitting here in my bed checking my email while drinking a glass of milk. I took a relatively small sip then burped the tiniest little burp. To my surprise, milk came up with that burp. Yes, this is probably too much information, but this is life after weight loss surgery. There are good days and there are bad days. There are positive side effects and there are negative side effects. Acid reflux is one of the most common side effects for weight loss surgery patients, especially for lap band patients and gastric sleeve patients. It can be very uncomfortable and also pretty embarrassing. Luckily, I was just in my room by myself but I just imagine how stressful and embarrassing it would have been if I was at dinner with friends.

The good new is that this side effect can be treated. If you have severe acid reflux, talk to your surgeon. There are medications available that can really help with the symptoms of acid reflux and allow for you to enjoy life without the painful symptoms. If it is extremely severe, your surgeon might even examine you to see if you need a revision to your WLS. Also, tums are lifesavers! Carry those bad boys around with you everywhere! And remember, you don’t have to live like this. Your surgeon is there to help you so make an appointment and talk to him/her about this so they can help. I know I will be calling my doctor about this!

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