Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing experience for those struggling with obesity. It can help individuals achieve significant weight loss, improve their overall health, and increase their quality of life. However, as with any major surgery, there are risks and potential side effects that patients may experience.
One common side effect that many weight loss surgery patients experience is fatigue. While fatigue after weight loss surgery can be frustrating and disruptive to daily life, it’s important to understand why it occurs and how to manage it. There are several factors that contribute to fatigue after weight loss surgery. However as time passes during your recovery, your fatigue should decrease and you will start to feel recharged with new energy levels.
1. Anaesthetic
During your surgery you will be put to sleep with a general anaesthetic. These medications will linger on in your bloodstream over the first few days contributing to feeling tired, “groggy” and nauseous. This is normal; however this feeling should start to subside during the first week as the levels of anaesthetic medication in your circulation decrease and you start to feel better day by day.
2. Dehydration
Dehydration is one of the main factors that contribute to fatigue after weight loss surgery both in the short and long term. Both gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery reduce the size of the stomach which means that you can no longer gulp a large volume of fluids, and this can contribute to dehydration and fatigue. Learning how to drink small frequent amounts to prevent dehydration with your new small stomach can take some time to adjust.
Prevent dehydration by starting to drink fluids early and consistently throughout the day. It helps to carry a water bottle with you wherever you go and measure your daily intake. Aim for a minimum of 1 – 1.5L/day. If you are struggling to drink due to nausea or pain, then see your treating doctor. Beware of other signs of dehydration such as feeling thirsty, dry mouth, feeling dizzy, peeing small amounts of urine or experiencing dark-coloured urine.
3. Stress and Sleep
It is well known that stress and poor sleep result in fatigue. Often the lead-up weight loss surgery can be stressful for many people. Similarly, there is also stress on the body after surgery as the tissues and staple lines heal. This stress does not only contribute to fatigue after weight loss surgery, but can also interfere with healthy and regular sleep which is required to maintain good energy levels.
4. Lack of Protein
A high-protein diet is essential in the recovery following gastric sleeve or bypass surgery. We recommend 80 – 120g of daily protein. Your protein intake is directly linked to energy levels. A high-protein diet will also enhance your healing and improve your weight loss. Protein should always be consumed as the first part of the meal. Closely follow your dietitian’s advice by adding protein powders to fluids and focusing on protein-rich foods such as eggs, fish and beans as you progress through the dietary stages.
5. Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency
Surprisingly over 50% of patients have a vitamin deficiency before surgery and are not aware. It is important that this is recognised and corrected before surgery. Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass reduce the capacity of the stomach and can affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Following surgery, patients are required to take a daily lifelong vitamin to top up their levels to prevent deficiency. A deficiency can lead to significant side effects, including fatigue. Common deficiencies include Iron, B12, Zinc and Vitamin D. Sometimes treating fatigue can be as simple as treating a deficiency.
6. Depression and Low Mood
Weight loss surgery is a big decision and it’s not uncommon to feel a bit sad and overwhelmed in the first few weeks following surgery. Patients are dealing with the shock of many new changes before weight loss kicks in. It is normal for some people to feel down, and you may even experience a sense of regret. The good news is that this is temporary and will pass with time, and your energy levels will bounce back. If you have a history of depression be sure to take your antidepressants as normal. If you find your low mood persisting it is important to seek support through your bariatric team and psychologist rather than struggle alone.
What else happens after weight loss surgery?
You may experience some other effects after weight loss surgery but rest assured – the following things are normal, and part of the process to lead a healthier life.
- Some pain and discomfort: You may experience some pain and discomfort in the first few days after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help manage your symptoms.
- Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of weight loss surgery. Your doctor will provide you with medication to help prevent and treat these symptoms.
- Changes in appetite and taste: After surgery, you may experience changes in appetite and taste. You may feel full after eating smaller amounts of food or have a decreased appetite.
- Changes in bowel movements: You may experience changes in bowel movements, including constipation or diarrhea.
- Hair loss: Some patients experience temporary hair loss after weight loss surgery, but it usually grows back.
- Emotional changes: Weight loss surgery can have a significant impact on your emotions. Some patients experience feelings of depression, anxiety, or irritability after surgery.
- Follow-up appointments: After surgery, you will need to attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and ensure that you are meeting your weight loss goals.
Embrace a happier, healthier future
If you’re experiencing fatigue after weight loss surgery, know that you’re not alone. It’s a common side effect that many patients go through. Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and give it the rest and nutrients it needs to heal and thrive. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team if you’re experiencing persistent fatigue or any other concerning symptoms. With their support and your commitment to results, you can overcome fatigue and continue on your weight loss journey towards a healthier, happier you.
Book a consultation with Dr Andrew Kiyingi at Perth Bariatric Surgery today.
Feel free to share this infographic using the embed code below:
