Will I Throw Up After Wisdom Teeth Surgery
Wisdom teeth surgery is a common procedure that many people undergo. It is a type of dental surgery that involves the removal of one or more wisdom teeth. After the surgery, patients may experience various symptoms, including nausea and vomiting. In this article, we will explore whether or not patients will throw up after wisdom teeth surgery and provide some tips to prevent it from happening.
Why Do Patients Experience Nausea and Vomiting After Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of many types of surgeries, including wisdom teeth surgery. There are several reasons why patients may experience nausea and vomiting after the procedure:
- Anesthesia - Patients are typically given general anesthesia during wisdom teeth surgery. This can cause nausea and vomiting as a side effect.
- Swelling - Swelling in the mouth and throat after surgery can cause nausea and vomiting.
- Pain medication - Pain medication prescribed after surgery can also cause nausea and vomiting as a side effect.
- Dehydration - Patients may become dehydrated after surgery due to difficulty drinking fluids. Dehydration can cause nausea and vomiting.
How Common is Nausea and Vomiting After Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects after many types of surgeries, including wisdom teeth surgery. According to a study published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, approximately 20-30% of patients experience nausea and vomiting after wisdom teeth surgery.
How Can Patients Prevent Nausea and Vomiting After Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
While nausea and vomiting are common side effects after wisdom teeth surgery, there are several things patients can do to prevent them:
- Follow postoperative instructions - Patients should carefully follow their dentist's postoperative instructions, including taking prescribed medications and avoiding certain foods and drinks.
- Stay hydrated - Drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting.
- Eat light foods - Eating light, easy-to-digest foods like soup, crackers, and toast can help prevent nausea and vomiting.
- Avoid strong odors - Strong odors can trigger nausea and vomiting in some patients. Avoiding strong smells can help prevent these symptoms.
- Take anti-nausea medication - In some cases, patients may be prescribed anti-nausea medication to prevent these symptoms after surgery.
When Should Patients Seek Medical Attention?
While nausea and vomiting are common side effects after wisdom teeth surgery, patients should seek medical attention if they experience any of the following:
- Persistent nausea and vomiting that does not improve
- Fever or chills
- Bleeding from the surgical site
- Severe pain or swelling
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
These symptoms may indicate a more serious complication and require immediate medical attention.
Conclusion
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects after wisdom teeth surgery, but they can often be prevented with proper postoperative care. Patients should carefully follow their dentist's instructions and take steps to stay hydrated and avoid strong odors. If symptoms persist or become severe, patients should seek immediate medical attention.