Is Morning Dry Heaving Normal After Ostomy Surgery?

My husband had surgery back in March. He now has an ostomy bag. Every morning he wakes up to terrible dry heaving. It usually lasts about 10 - 15 minutes. Sometimes there is also vomiting but not always.<

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Is this normal?<

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Hi Helpless. I have never experienced the dry heaving you described nor have I heard reports of this from others here. There may not be any connection between the heaving and the surgery in March. The only related factor I would suspect is dehydration. You and your husband, however, should consult the primary care doctor who will take a broad look at all symptoms without the narrow focus of a specialist. It is entirely possible that this heaving may be due to other issues. Good luck!

Hi Helpless,

I am wondering, is he taking any pain meds...or any meds for that matter. I remember that I was having terrible urges to vomit that went away once I was off the pain meds. Primeboys suggestions are also good.

Me again, is his ostomy working well enough? Could also be sign of a blockage.

I have to say that nothing we can say here will be of any benefit to your husband.  I think you need to contact his surgeon immediately to report these symptoms.  If you aren't comfortable with that at least call your primary care doctor.  I recently came across an article stating that the highest proportion of adverse surgical events happen during urological surgery.  I just had extensive urological surgery so it caught my eye.

PS - You are not "Helpless"!! No doubt you are your husband's medical Angel!  ;)

Staying Hydrated with an Ostomy with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister