Two Months After Nissen Fundoplication: Continuing Challenges with Discomfort and Bloating
Hello everyone, I'm a 29-year-old male reaching out for some advice. Two months back, I underwent a procedure to correct my hiatal hernia through Nissen fundoplication. Prior to the operation, I faced serious issues, including: - Intense heartburn that was hard to manage - Persistent bloating accompanied by frequent burping - Reflux at night, which forced me to sleep upright and only on my left side for many nights; attempting to lie on my right side caused unsettling pressure in my diaphragm. - A feeling of tightness under the chest where the rib cage aligns with the stomach - Continuous discomfort throughout the day; for an entire year, my stomach never felt even close to "normal." Fast forward to two months post-surgery, and while I've noticed some improvements, I'm still facing significant challenges: - I continue to experience substantial bloating and my stomach is sensitive even with mild foods. - After each meal, I endure discomfort and find myself needing to walk around for relief. - My stomach feels perpetually irritated and bloated; the odd sensations are ever-present and relentless. - About a month following the procedure, I began to experience chest burning (I’m uncertain if this is due to gas pressure or actual heartburn). - The pressure under my chest, which had subsided briefly after the operation, appears to have returned. On a positive note, my sleep quality has improved slightly; I can now rest on both sides with my head elevated. Nevertheless, I occasionally feel a heartburn-like sensation, which has only appeared in the last month. Currently, I struggle to find even a brief moment where my stomach feels "normal." Has anyone experienced similar recovery journeys? Did your condition eventually get better? I would greatly appreciate any tips or insights that have aided in navigating this phase. I understand that healing takes time, but I’m eager to hear from others who have faced this—a shared experience, especially any uplifting accounts of gradual improvement would mean a lot to me.
Answers (1)
9/13/2025, 3:30:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re going through a challenging recovery after your Nissen fundoplication, and it's completely understandable to seek advice during this time. You're experiencing discomfort, bloating, and new sensations that can understandably cause concern. Let’s break down what you’re facing and outline some actionable steps to help you navigate these challenges.
Summary of Your Situation:
- You are two months post-surgery for a hiatal hernia, with lingering bloating and discomfort.
- Some symptoms, such as sleep issues, have improved, but others like burning sensations and bloating remain problematic.
- You’re seeking reassurance and advice from others with similar experiences.
Explanation:
Nissen fundoplication can significantly help with reflux and heartburn, but recovery can vary greatly among individuals. It’s normal to experience discomfort and digestive changes as your body heals and adjusts to the surgery. The pressure and sensation of tightness can stem from several factors, including:
- Post-operative inflammation: Your body may still be healing, and inflammation around the surgical site can contribute to discomfort.
- Dietary changes: After surgery, your diet may need to be adjusted to manage digestive reactions better.
- Gas build-up: This is common after surgery and can cause bloating and discomfort.
Next Steps:
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Dietary Modifications:
- Eat small, frequent meals: This can help reduce bloating and discomfort.
- Chew food thoroughly: This aids digestion and minimizes gas.
- Identify trigger foods: Keep a food diary to note any foods that seem to worsen your symptoms. Common culprits include high-fat, spicy, or fibrous foods.
- Avoid carbonated beverages and chewing gum: These can increase gas and bloating.
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Posture and Movement:
- Stay upright after eating: Try to remain seated for at least 30 minutes post-meal to aid digestion.
- Gentle walking: Light walking after meals can help stimulate digestion and relieve discomfort.
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Symptom Monitoring:
- Track symptoms: Keep a daily log of your symptoms, noting any patterns or changes. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify potential causes for your discomfort.
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Hydration:
- Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can alleviate some digestive issues and improve overall gut function.
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Medication Considerations:
- If you’re experiencing new or worsening symptoms like burning sensations, consider discussing over-the-counter antacids or medications with your healthcare provider. Be cautious with long-term use without guidance.
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Patience and Follow-up:
- Healing can take time. Follow up with your healthcare provider, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. They may provide specific treatments or recommend tests to rule out any complications.
Support:
You are not alone in this journey. Many people experience ups and downs after such surgeries. It’s important to lean on support groups or communities where you can find encouragement and shared stories. Positive accounts from others who faced similar struggles can indeed be uplifting.
If your situation does not improve or you develop new symptoms, please reach out to a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Your health and comfort are the top priority. Remember to take it one step at a time, and you may discover gradual improvements along your healing path.
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