Having your wisdom teeth removed is a common procedure, but it's also a significant surgical event. One common post-operative concern is nausea and vomiting. Understanding why this happens, how to prevent it, and when it warrants a call to your oral surgeon is crucial for a smooth recovery.
Why Do People Throw Up After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Several factors contribute to nausea and vomiting after wisdom teeth extraction. These include:
- Anesthesia: The anesthesia used during the procedure can sometimes cause nausea and vomiting as a side effect. This is especially true with certain types of anesthesia or if you're particularly sensitive.
- Medications: Pain relievers prescribed after surgery, such as opioids, are known to cause nausea in some individuals. Antibiotics prescribed to prevent infection can also contribute.
- Blood: The sight or taste of blood, especially if you experience bleeding after the procedure, can trigger nausea. Swallowing blood can also make you feel sick.
- Dry mouth: Post-operative dry mouth, often a result of mouth breathing or medication side effects, can contribute to nausea.
- Pain and Stress: The pain associated with the surgery and the stress of recovery can indirectly contribute to nausea and vomiting.
How Can I Prevent Throwing Up After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to minimize your risk of nausea and vomiting:
- Follow your surgeon's instructions precisely: This includes following dietary restrictions, taking medication as prescribed, and keeping your mouth clean.
- Avoid strong odors: Strong smells, such as perfumes, cleaning products, or even certain foods, can trigger nausea.
- Stay hydrated: Sip on clear liquids as instructed by your surgeon. Dehydration can worsen nausea. Avoid straws, as they can increase bleeding.
- Eat soft foods slowly: When your surgeon advises you to start eating again, begin with very soft foods and eat small portions slowly. Avoid anything crunchy or hard.
- Take anti-nausea medication: Your oral surgeon may prescribe anti-nausea medication to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting. Take it as directed.
- Elevate your head: Keep your head elevated while sleeping to reduce swelling and discomfort, which might indirectly reduce nausea.
What Should I Do If I Throw Up After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
While some nausea is common, persistent vomiting or vomiting blood is cause for concern. If you experience any of the following, contact your oral surgeon immediately:
- Persistent vomiting: If you are vomiting repeatedly, it's important to contact your surgeon. Dehydration is a serious concern.
- Vomiting blood: This is a serious sign and requires immediate medical attention.
- Severe pain: Intense pain that is not controlled by medication should be reported to your surgeon.
- High fever: A high fever could indicate an infection.
- Increased swelling: Significant swelling that worsens after the initial post-op swelling could indicate a problem.
Is it normal to feel nauseous after wisdom teeth removal?
Yes, feeling nauseous after wisdom teeth removal is relatively common due to factors like anesthesia, medication side effects, and the procedure itself. However, the severity and duration of nausea vary from person to person. Mild nausea is often manageable, while persistent or severe nausea needs to be addressed with your oral surgeon.
How long does nausea last after wisdom teeth removal?
The duration of nausea varies significantly depending on individual factors and response to medication. For many, it subsides within the first 24-48 hours post-surgery. However, for some, it can last longer. Persistent nausea should be discussed with your dental professional.
How can I reduce the risk of throwing up after wisdom teeth removal?
Proactive measures can significantly reduce the chance of post-operative nausea. These include following your surgeon's instructions meticulously, avoiding strong smells, staying hydrated with clear fluids, eating slowly and carefully, and taking any prescribed anti-nausea medication.
Remember, every patient is different. This information is for general knowledge and should not replace advice from your oral surgeon or dentist. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns regarding your post-operative recovery.
