Loss of gag reflex after surgery

[Paul_Y 3]

Ok, I know this may sound weird, but I just noticed that I no longer have any gag reflex. I was brushing my teeth and then my tongue. I had avoided the back of my tongue because it had been sore, but decided to brush it tonight anyways. I noticed that I never gagged like I used to. I tried all the normal spots and even further back and nothing.

I have also stated in some of my other posts that I have not vomited a single time since surgery. I did have plenty of nausea on Fri/Sat probably due to lactose intolerance, but I have been off any anti nausea meds since yesterday morning.

Thinking back on it, I think I may have overeaten a few times causing cramps that probably should have been expelled. I know that this may seem like a blessing at first glance, but I am concerned that one of my body's important defense mechanisms is not working.

I wil definitely call my surgeon tomorrow about this, but has anyone else experienced anything like this?

[Paul_Y 3]

Well it is almost 2-weeks after surgery and I still have never vomited and I still have no gag-reflex. My surgeon was surprised, but said give it a few weeks to see if it will repair itself, and if not he would refer me to a tongue and throat specialist.

I have done tons of research on this and I can find no instances of it occurring during a VSG. There is possibility to damage the Vagus nerve with the VSG, but that normally results in bowel problems. There have been several instances of Vagus nerve damage during intubation which would result in loss of gag-reflex. I am scared because this is a major self defense mechanism which has now been disabled. but I have been unwilling to try Syrup of ipecac to induce vomiting. Maybe in a few weeks.

[FishingNurse 1,211]

Keep us posted that is bizarre

[Paul_Y 3]

UPDATE: I did trigger a light gag-reflex this morning while brushing my teeth. I didn't try a second time, because today is my first day attempting to return to work.