How long will I feel weak?

Hi Everyone!  I need some encouragement from WLS Grads.  I had my surgery 4 days ago and was fortunate to have 0 complications.  But now I feel INCREDIBLY weak and I get very light headed when I stand up to walk around.  I have been getting 32-48 oz. of water in, and at least 40 grams of protein.  I don't even feel strong enough to walk around for more than 20 mins w/o feeling like I may pass out.  How long does this weakness last?  Does anyone have any tips that would help me feel less weak?  Thanks so much!

I got tired super easy for the first few weeks. For 10 days I was on a clear liquid diet. For the next 10 I had thicker liquids. After I was able to eat pureed foods things got better.

Thanks for the reply.  I'm still new to OH - I should have also said that I am currently allowed Full liquids and Pureed foods.  I feel like if I could get some more carbs in maybe it would help, but I am so FULL by the time I meet the WATER and the Protein requirements there is no ROOM for carbs.  I have not been able to find anything to 'puree' that has a lot of PROTEIN in it (just have been making the protein shakes so far) 

My first week I did almost nothing but sleep, I was exhausted! It did get better, but for the first month or two I ended up taking naps almost every day. It's major surgery and your body needs time to heal, so take care of yourself and get as much rest as you need without feeling guilty.

It sounds like you're dehydrated, which hits hard and fast.  64oz is your minimum fluid requirement each day.  Aside from that, keep in mind that even though we treat it so casually out here, that these ARE major surgeries, open or lap.  Your body needs time to heal, but you DO need to push more fluids.  If it gets worse, get yourself to the ER for an IV of fluids and try again.

Valerie - I think I was getting dehydrated.  Its REALLY hard to get in enough clear fluid.  The Protein shakes don't count.  My brain wasn't working very well while I was still on the Pain meds and I THOUGHT I was getting in 48 ounces - but in fact it was only 40 ounces of water.  Today it is looking like I will get a MINIMUM of 56 oz. of water.   I am feeling much better the more water I get in!  Thank you SOOOOO much for you insight!  

Here's some good news for you - everything wet and decaffeinated counts - so take another sip of whatever doesn't suck.

I felt crummy too. It will pass!! Just keep doing what you're doing to get as many fluids and protein as you can. (My doc said I could count the liquid in protein shakes...) I finally started feeling more myself in about a week, but it was two weeks before I could do some normal activities.... every time I walked, it was quick and easy cuz I tired out so fast.  YOU WILL GET BETTER!! (I really wondered if I would so I want you to know there's hope- wink)

I'm a week ahead of you and just now being able to do things like go downstairs and outside (long uphill driveway) to get the mail. it doesn't help that I'm mostly on clear liquids still. My plan amazingly doesn't call for protein yet.

I'm with Valerie. You need to drink a lot more.

But you will be worn out for a while. You had major surgery!