What Happens If I Catch Common Cold Before Bariatric Surgery?

Medically Reviewed by Katelyn J. Mock, US-Registered Dietician (R.D.)

Cold Before Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery, like any other surgery, requires the patient to be in the best possible health. A severe cough delays surgery because general anesthesia can irritate the airway and make the cough even worse.

• Generally, surgeons delay the patient’s bariatric surgery on account of a chest cold. The reason behind this delay is that the surgeon wants the patient’s lungs to be clear at the time of surgery.
• If the patient has a common cold before bariatric surgery, they are advised to drink lots of water and take adequate rest. Doctors recommend immunity boosters like Vitamin C.
• Vitamin C reduces the symptoms of common cold.^[1]Emanuele Lo Menzo, Alessandro Cappellani, Antonio Zanghi et al. “Nutritional Implications of Obesity: Before and After Bariatric Surgery” Bariatric Surgical Practice and Patient Care 2014; 9(1): 9-17
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• Doctors take X-rays to ensure there is no fluid in the lungs. Treatments like nebulization are available to help clear the fluid build up.

Question- Can I Undergo Bariatric Surgery if I Have a Cold?

Answer:

• You should be able to take a general cough or common cold medicine that you prefer. However, it is essential that you double check the same with your case manager and bariatric surgeon.
• Please do not let the problem linger.
• Drink lots of liquids, including tea with a little honey.
• Get some rest to allow your body to get better.

References

1. Emanuele Lo Menzo, Alessandro Cappellani, Antonio Zanghi et al. “Nutritional Implications of Obesity: Before and After Bariatric Surgery” Bariatric Surgical Practice and Patient Care 2014; 9(1): 9-17

This Post Addresses

• Cold symptoms before surgery
• Colds and surgery
• Can you have surgery with a cold?
• Reasons to cancel surgery
• Common cold before surgery