Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV): What It Is and How to Beat It
If you’ve ever felt queasy after an operation, you know how miserable PONV can be. It’s not just uncomfortable – it can delay discharge, keep you from eating, and even cause dehydration. The good news is that most hospitals already have plans to stop it, and there are simple things you can do at home to stay ahead of the nausea.
Why PONV Happens
The body reacts to anesthesia, pain meds, and the stress of surgery. Certain drugs (like opioids) trigger the vomiting center in the brain, while others (like inhaled anesthetics) slow gut movement. Your personal risk factors matter too: being a woman, never smoking, having a history of motion sickness, or undergoing abdominal or ear surgery raises the odds.
Knowing these triggers helps you ask the right questions before your operation. For example, tell the surgeon if you’ve had nausea with previous surgeries – they may choose a different anesthetic or add anti‑nausea meds early on.
Practical Ways to Prevent and Treat PONV
Ask for prophylactic medication. Drugs such as ondansetron, dexamethasone, or scopolamine patches are proven to cut nausea risk. Most hospitals give at least one of these if you have any risk factors.
Stay hydrated. Dehydration makes the stomach more sensitive. Sip clear fluids as soon as your doctor says it’s safe – even a few sips of water can calm the gut.
Limit opioid use. If possible, request non‑opioid pain relief (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) or regional blocks that numb the area without affecting the brain’s nausea center.
Eat light before surgery. A small snack like toast or a banana a few hours beforehand keeps blood sugar steady and reduces stomach irritation.
Use ginger or peppermint. Natural remedies work for many people. Ginger tea, capsules, or peppermint candies can soothe an upset stomach without extra medication.
If nausea hits after you’re home, over‑the‑counter options like meclizine or dimenhydrinate are safe for most adults. Follow the dosing instructions and avoid heavy meals until the feeling passes.
Finally, keep a simple symptom diary. Note when the nausea starts, what you ate, any meds taken, and how severe it feels. This record helps your doctor fine‑tune future prevention plans.
PONV is common, but it doesn’t have to ruin your recovery. By understanding why it happens and using these practical steps, you can get back on your feet faster and enjoy a smoother healing journey.
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