Why You Have Bad Breath After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

If you or a loved one undergoes gastric sleeve surgery, it is advisable to understand that the road to recovery has its ups and downs. The first few weeks usually come with several challenges, such as bad breath or halitosis. This can be a shock to many patients, but don’t be alarmed! Bad breath after gastric sleeve surgery is a normal side effect that doesn’t last long. Let’s look at some of the causes to help you make an informed decision about your health and overall well-being.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

Gastric sleeve surgery entails removing part of the stomach to reduce the amount of food that can be consumed. In turn, this reduces the amount of calories you absorb, leading to weight loss. Unfortunately, this adjustment in the digestive system causes food to move slower than it should. This causes acid buildup, which flows back into the mouth. This is a common cause of bad breath after sleeve surgery.

Ketosis

Ketosis refers to the body’s ability to burn fat. However, during this process, the body releases ketones, which have a fruity smell that is often considered foul. The smell is associated with a byproduct of the ketones called acetone. This is another cause of bad breath after gastric sleeve surgery.

Dehydration

Dehydration is a side effect of sleeve surgery. Patients can forget to take water because of dietary changes, resulting in bad breath. You can rectify the problem by maintaining the “8 glasses a day” rule, avoiding fizzy drinks, and brushing your teeth regularly. In case of a recurrence despite your efforts, consult with your surgeon for effective strategies to restore good breath and overall well-being.

Bad Breath After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

While the benefits of gastric sleeve surgery cannot be understated, it comes with major changes to your digestive system. Like most invasive procedures, you may experience side effects like bad breath, discomfort, and other digestion-related complications before the body adapts fully. With that in mind, you don’t have to deal with these side effects. Your surgeon can recommend effective remedies.

Bad breath after gastric sleeve surgery is not something you should be concerned about, as these symptoms disappear over time. It is advisable to schedule routine checkups with your doctor to address minor issues before things worsen.

Contact us at WellStar and schedule a consultation with our experts to ensure a successful gastric sleeve surgery in Cobb County. We walk with you every step of your journey, ensuring you maintain optimum health, overall well-being—and good breath.