So tired

I am about 14 weeks post op and have found that this past week or so I am so tired. From the time I get up til I go to bed I a fighting fatigue. Is this something most post ops experience? My levels were all good so I'm wondering if  this is still recovering from surgery? Hormones? Seriously considering taking a sick day tomorrow to just sleep and rejuvenate..Still dragging my butt to the gym but it's been a struggle...

Are your iron levels ok? It is one of the first signs of being tired. Take a day to rest and stay away from the gym for a couple of days. You will break down otherwise. You are doing well. 

Hi Karen. I'm not as far along as you but I too experience fatigue to the point that until recently I didn't have enough stamina to do a second kilometer in the pool (was swimming 2 km consecutively prior to surgery). This has now improved for me so I expect it will for you in time.

Several things to consider and do: see your G.P. and request a complete blood work checking your nutrient levels. I did this to see what my levels were and if I was in any way lacking in nutrients plus establish a baseline. You may need to have your blood work done routinely for the rest of your life. I do as I had a VSG.

Second make sure your getting enough sleep. I know this seems obvious but we are a sleep deprived society. You're recovering from surgery- your body heals when sleeping and repairs wounds/builds muscle etc.

Make sure your getting enough protein. I do about 10% more than the range given by my program dietician but only because I'm lifting weights and swimming 1 - 2 kms plus aquacise. Too much protein is secreted in your urine and stresses your kidneys so talk to your dietician about more protein to see what is safe for you.

Drink enough water and then some. You need to flush the toxins out of your system especially after a workout. If you don't lactic acid builds up in your muscles and you feel sore and tired.

Within the first 30 minutes (preferable soon after a workout, you need to consume some protein and carbs. Because I drink a lot of water when working out to stay hydrated and the no solids for 30 minutes after consuming liquids rule, that is the only time I use a Meal Replacement Drink (Ensure, Boost - that sort of thing). Of course if you wait 30 minutes you can eat some protein and carbs.  When you get home I believe its recommended to have a meal two hours after a workout.

I want to make this point- this is why I encourage people to get together face to face so we can exchange information.  I have a lot of downloaded and printed info on bariatric surgery, nutrition, exercise-too much to upload. Its out there for anyone to find but you have to go look for it. I did and am willing to share.  We need to stay informed. Baraitric Surgery changes a lot about our health etc FOR LIFE.

I just had my levels done and my iron was on the lower end but the dietician was not worried, and that is usually where I sit. I get at least 80g of protein a day and it is recommended that I get 70/75g a day. I am usually pretty good at getting enough rest at least as much as one gets with a special needs, child and a full time job. I usually have a snack after school and head to the gym then come home and make supper. I drink lots of water too.

I am doing everything that I am supposed to be doing just so tired. I am hoping it is still recovery, but if it doesn't clear up in a couple of weeks I will see my Dr.

If you haven't had your vit D checked i would sugguest that,mine was very very low and caused me to be extremely tired, muscle aches and low energy. Similar symptoms to low iron which I have also had.

Also don't forget checking adrenal gland, thyroid & B12 levels - all of which can contribute to extreme fatigue and the adrenal levels & B12 levels can be compromised in a post-op patient who has been through extreme stress.