Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgeries performed worldwide. For many patients, recovery is smooth with only minor discomfort. However, a number of individuals report nausea and vomiting after wisdom teeth removal, which can be confusing and unsettling.
So, if you’re asking, “why do I throw up after wisdom teeth removal?” — you’re not alone. This article explores the reasons behind post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV), how to manage it, when to seek help, and what patients in the UAE and beyond should be aware of before and after their procedure.
What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Are They Removed?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually emerge between ages 17 and 25. For many people, these teeth do not erupt properly or become impacted, causing:
- Pain or pressure in the mouth
- Infection or swelling
- Misalignment of existing teeth
- Gum disease or cyst formation
To prevent complications, dentists often recommend the surgical removal of wisdom teeth.
Why Do I Throw Up After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Vomiting after oral surgery is not entirely uncommon. There are several contributing factors that may trigger nausea or vomiting after the extraction of wisdom teeth:
1. Reaction to Anesthesia or Sedation
One of the most common causes of nausea after oral surgery is a reaction to anesthesia. Depending on the type used—local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia—your body might react differently.
Common side effects include:
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Nausea
- Vomiting (usually within the first 24 hours)
Anesthesia affects your central nervous system and digestive system, sometimes causing stomach discomfort once you regain consciousness.
2. Swallowing Blood During or After Surgery
During or after the procedure, it’s normal to experience some bleeding. If blood is swallowed—knowingly or unknowingly—it can irritate the stomach lining, resulting in vomiting.
The taste of blood in your mouth can also trigger nausea, especially when mixed with saliva and gauze.
3. Pain Medications or Antibiotics
Post-surgical medications, especially opioids or strong painkillers, can upset your stomach. If taken on an empty stomach, they may increase the chances of vomiting.
Some patients also react poorly to antibiotics prescribed to prevent infection. These medications can cause:
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea or nausea
4. Anxiety and Stress
Believe it or not, stress and anxiety can cause nausea even before the surgery. Patients with dental anxiety may experience a nervous stomach, which continues into the post-op period.
The fear of surgery, pain, or complications may contribute to psychosomatic symptoms like vomiting.
5. Dehydration and Lack of Food
If you have not eaten or drunk anything for several hours before surgery (which is typically advised), your stomach is empty. Taking medications or swallowing blood on an empty stomach can increase discomfort and lead to vomiting.
Moreover, dehydration after surgery can worsen symptoms like dizziness and nausea.
6. Motion Sickness After Surgery
If you’re driven home right after the procedure, car movement—especially if you’re still under the effects of anesthesia—can cause motion sickness. This is especially common in people already prone to nausea from travel.
How Common Is Vomiting After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
It’s relatively common to feel nauseated after wisdom teeth removal, though full vomiting may not happen to everyone. Studies suggest that up to 30% of patients may experience nausea within 24 hours post-surgery, especially when IV sedation or general anesthesia is used.
If you’re wondering, why do I throw up after wisdom teeth removal near me? — know that this side effect isn’t necessarily tied to your location, but to your body’s individual response to medication, surgery, and stress.
Managing and Preventing Nausea Post-Surgery
If you’re worried about post-op nausea or have experienced it before, follow these practical tips:
✅ 1. Talk to Your Oral Surgeon Beforehand
Let your dental team know if you’ve had previous issues with anesthesia or medication. They may use an anti-nausea medication preemptively.
✅ 2. Take Medication with Food (If Allowed)
If instructed, eat a small soft meal (like yogurt or mashed potatoes) before taking any painkillers.
✅ 3. Stay Hydrated
Drink small sips of water frequently. Avoid sugary or carbonated drinks initially.
✅ 4. Rest in an Elevated Position
Lying flat can worsen nausea. Keep your head elevated for the first 24 hours.
✅ 5. Use Anti-Nausea Remedies
Your dentist may prescribe antiemetics like ondansetron or recommend natural remedies like ginger tea or mint.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Vomiting once or twice is usually manageable. However, contact your oral surgeon or a medical provider if:
- Vomiting persists beyond 24–48 hours
- You can’t keep any food or liquid down
- You have severe abdominal pain
- There are signs of infection (fever, foul-smelling discharge)
- You’re feeling extremely weak or dizzy
These could be signs of complications, such as a drug allergy, infection, or dehydration.
Regional Context: Why Do I Throw Up After Wisdom Teeth Removal UAE?
In the UAE, oral surgeries are typically performed under strict clinical standards. Yet, some patients still wonder, why do I throw up after wisdom teeth removal UAE—especially if they underwent surgery in a private clinic or under international protocols.
Here are a few region-specific considerations:
- Anesthesia preferences may vary slightly by facility.
- Language barriers during post-op instructions may lead to misuse of medication.
- Cultural factors, including dietary habits, can affect recovery.
If you’re in the UAE and experience persistent symptoms, always consult a certified oral health professional.
What Patients Are Saying
“After my wisdom teeth removal, I felt fine until I got into the car and started driving home. The movement made me dizzy and I vomited twice. It was gone by the next day though.” – Zara M.
“I didn’t eat before taking my pain meds and immediately felt sick. Lesson learned—always follow your doctor’s advice and eat something soft before.” – Omar A.
Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
Here’s a general timeline of what to expect after wisdom teeth removal:
| Time | Symptoms |
| 0–24 hrs | Swelling, bleeding, mild nausea |
| Day 1–2 | Possible vomiting, sore throat |
| Day 3–5 | Reduced swelling, improved appetite |
| Day 6–7 | Normal activities resume |
| Week 2+ | Full recovery in most cases |
If vomiting occurs, it usually happens in the first 12–24 hours and rarely continues past that unless there are complications.
Final Thoughts: It’s Common—But Manageable
To summarize, if you’ve ever wondered, why do I throw up after wisdom teeth removal, the answer lies in several interconnected factors—ranging from anesthesia and medication to stress and blood ingestion. While unpleasant, this reaction is generally mild and temporary.
Proper preparation, good communication with your dentist, and following post-op instructions can significantly reduce the likelihood of nausea. And if it does occur, don’t panic—most cases resolve within a day or two with rest and hydration.
If you’re recovering from dental surgery or planning one soon, platforms like stoodmens offer helpful recovery guides and resources tailored to patient needs.
