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Sleeping Positions After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
After having gastric sleeve surgery, your sleeping positions may be different than before. You may find it comfortable to sleep on your back or either side.
Some people even sleep in a reclining position.
The important thing is to find a position that is comfortable for you and doesn’t put any undue pressure on your stomach.
Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a sleeping position after gastric sleeve surgery:
The best sleeping positions after gastric sleeve surgery
The best sleeping position is on your left side as it helps keep your stomach and intestines from moving around too much. Placing a pillow between your knees will also help keep your spine aligned.
If you are not a side sleeper, the second-best position is on your back with a thin pillow or no pillow at all to keep your spine in alignment.
It is crucial to avoid sleeping on your stomach as it can cause pain and discomfort. Sleeping on your stomach can lead to irritation and ulceration of the staple line, which is a common complication after gastric sleeve surgery.
Using supportive pillows to keep your body comfortable and supported is also essential.
After undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, it is important to adopt proper sleeping positions to aid in the healing and recovery process. Sleeping in a semi-sitting position or on your side or back for the first 15 days post-surgery is recommended.
| Sleeping Position | Suggested or Not |
|---|---|
| Semi-Upright Position | Suggested |
| Side Sleeping | Suggested |
| Sleeping on Stomach | Not Suggested |
| Supporting Incisions | Suggested |
| Experimenting with Pillows | Suggested |
Tips for getting a good night’s sleep with gastric sleeve surgery
1. Wear loose-fitting clothes to bed
It’s important to wear loose-fitting clothes to bed after gastric sleeve surgery to help promote a better night’s sleep. Tight clothing can rub against incisions, causing irritation and discomfort. Loose clothing allows for ease of movement and provides comfort.
For example good quality cotton pajamas are ideal as they allow your skin to breathe while sleeping and won’t cause skin irritations.
Creating a bedtime routine and avoiding blue light from screens can also help prepare your brain for sleep mode and promote deeper sleep.
2. Make sure the room is comfortably warm
Maintaining a comfortable temperature in the sleeping area is crucial for patients recovering from gastric sleeve surgery. The room should be quiet, dark, and well-ventilated, with fresh air allowed in for 15 minutes before bedtime.
The ideal temperature for the room should be cool and comfortable, around 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Try yoga or meditation
Yoga and meditation are great ways to improve sleep quality after gastric sleeve surgery. Yoga Nidra is not about replacing sleep as many thinks but it is expecially helpful when it comes to improve your sleep. These practices can help relax both the body and the mind, making it faster to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Some poses to try include the Child’s Pose, which can help release tension in the lower back and hips, and the Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose, which can help calm the nervous system.
Meditation techniques like NSDR, deep breathing and visualization can also be helpful in promoting relaxation and preparing the mind for sleep. Try incorporating these practices into your bedtime routine to improve your sleep hygiene.
Incorporate some white noise to your sleep practice you even can sleep with your airpods in.
4. Avoid eating heavy meals before bedtime
For individuals who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery, avoiding heavy meals before bedtime is important to promote better sleep quality. Eating a large meal before bed can disrupt metabolism and cause discomfort, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Instead, opt for light and healthy snacks if needed, such as a piece of fruit or a small serving of yogurt. It is also important to avoid eating dinner within three hours before bedtime and to snack at least one hour before bedtime.
FAQ
What is gastric sleeve surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a weight-loss procedure that involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a narrow sleeve of stomach tissue. This reduces the stomach size, leading to reduced food intake and weight loss.
The surgery is typically performed laparoscopically, which is minimally invasive and involves smaller incisions than traditional open surgery. The purpose of the surgery is to help individuals who are at least 100 pounds overweight and have failed to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
How long does it take to recover from gastric sleeve surgery?
Recovery from gastric sleeve surgery is typically straightforward. Patients can expect to stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery to monitor their progress and ensure proper healing.
Most people can return to normal activities within two weeks, and can consume a well-balanced diet six weeks after surgery. It’s important to get plenty of rest and avoid sleeping on the stomach for at least three weeks post-surgery.
During recovery, patients should follow their surgeon’s instructions closely regarding diet and activity restrictions, take prescribed medication, drink plenty of fluids, and expect some pain, swelling, and drainage from the incision site.
Overall, statistical data suggests that patients can expect a gradual weight loss of 60-70% of excess weight.
Can i sleep on my stomach after gastric sleeve?
It is not safe to sleep on your stomach after undergoing gastric sleeve surgery. Sleeping on your stomach can put pressure on your abdomen and lungs, which can lead to discomfort and breathing difficulties, especially if you have sleep apnea.
It is recommended to sleep on your left side or back for the first few weeks after surgery to allow your wounds to heal and avoid complications. After about a month post-op, stomach sleeping may be possible, but it is best to consult with your surgeon before doing so.
Can you sleep on your side after bariatric surgery?
Yes, it is safe to sleep on your side after undergoing gastric sleeve surgery. In fact, sleeping on your side might be more comfortable than sleeping on your back. However, it is recommended to put a pillow between your legs to avoid excess pressure on the spine.
For most people, sleeping on their back is a better idea, especially during the first 15 days after surgery. It is important to avoid sleeping on your stomach as this posture can impair the health of the spine and put excessive pressure on the hips or other parts of the body.
To minimize discomfort, it is recommended to sleep in a recliner during the first couple of weeks after the procedure and to create a comfortable sleeping environment with plenty of pillows.
Can i sleep sideways after gastric bypass
Yes, it is safe to sleep on your side after gastric bypass, but it is important to take certain precautions. Sleeping on your side can be more comfortable than sleeping on your back. The best side sleeping position after gastric sleeve surgery is on your left side, which will help your stomach stay steady while you sleep. The pain and discomfort is similar to sleeping after shoulder surgery which can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
You can also place a pillow between your knees to keep your spine aligned. If you are not comfortable sleeping on your side, the second-best position is on your back with a thin pillow or no pillow at all to keep your spine in alignment.
Remember to avoid putting any excessive pressure on your wounds for at least a couple of weeks following your weight-loss surgery.
How long do you have to sleep upright after gastric sleeve?
After gastric sleeve gastrectomy, it is recommended to sleep in a semi-sitting position or on your side or back for at least two to three weeks to avoid complications. The best sleeping position during this period is a sitting or semi-sitting position just like how people slept in medieval times.
How do you release gas after gastric sleeve?
Releasing gas after gastric sleeve surgery can be uncomfortable, but it’s important to do so in order to prevent any complications. Here are some steps to follow:
- Stand up and walk around as much as possible. This can help move gas through your digestive system.
- Lie on your left side and bring your knees up to your chest. This can help release gas.
- Drink plenty of fluids to help move gas through your system.
- Avoid carbonated drinks and chewing gum, as they can increase gas production.
- Ask your doctor about over-the-counter gas relief medications, such as simethicone.
Remember to follow your doctor’s instructions closely and always consult with them before trying any new methods for releasing gas.
Can i use a Sarashi after After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Yes, you can use a sarashi after gastric sleeve surgery. A sarashi is a traditional Japanese abdominal wrap or bandage that provides support to the abdominal area. It is commonly used by individuals for various purposes, including post-surgical recovery.
After gastric sleeve surgery, your abdomen may feel tender and require some additional support as you heal. Wearing a sarashi can help provide gentle compression and support to the surgical area, promoting comfort and potentially reducing discomfort.
However, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider or surgeon before using a sarashi or any other compression garment to ensure it is appropriate for your specific situation and recovery process.
She tried every sleep system and trick to conquer her insomnia for good.
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