Weight gain and contributing factors!

I am 11 yrs out from RNY and have gained back about 70 pounds. I was tired and achy with no energy. My first step was to make an appt with my original surgeon. THE best thing I ever did. Through several tests- he diagnosed me with- severe anemia, sleep apnea, hiatal hernia and diabetes. Although I have been on iron and metformin through my family doc- my surgeon stated that I needed iron infusions and to be on insulin to better control my levels. As well as hernia repair surgery. I got the infusion, got an insulin pen and got a cpap. Doing just those 3 things I lost 15 pounds in a month. I had hernia repair surgery 2 weeks ago and have lost another 12 pounds. From doing a post-op liquid diet for a week I basically reset my pouch. I am back to 2-3 oz meals. I feel great!!! It took all of this for me to realize that my body is different and my family doc is not really trained to deal with my issues. I have been on iron and metformin for years and have made no progress. One trip to my surgeon and I feel better than I have in 5 years. My point being- when in doubt contact your surgeon. They are your life long after care specialist. Blessings to all who are struggling with issues.

Thankfully, I'm my best advocate and I have an awesome, well informed PCP with several patients who have had RNY. He's extremely collaborative, which for me is key.

I'm 15 years out this year and my surgeon retired 10 years ago, plus I moved out of that state 4 months after surgery so I've always had to seek out doctors who can do what I need

I think it's best we educate ourselves and take responsibility for our health by staying informed and engaged in our community.

I'm glad you've found something that works for you and are getting back on track.

Kim is very right. We need to be our best advocate. We need to learn about labs, the proper values, and what to do to get out best.

I have good pcp and s very good gastro doc. Plus a few other specialists.

My PCP doesn't know a lot about post op rny person needs by he is willing to listen and help as I need it. I.e my body doesn't retain B12 very well, so I feel best if I get weekly B12 shots. Initially my doc was sceptical about weekly shots, but after he saw my blood work that I had 8 days after the B12, he was convinced I would benefit from that. But I had to bring that to his attention.

The best I could advise you- get your blood results and start keeping a good eyes on them. Notice changes in levels.

BTW: did they check your calcium and PTH level? How about B1 and D? Those are critical.

Reminder: Track your Ferritin level to determine when you need another infusion or iron supplement changes. This is not a common test that PCPs order so you will need to train your provider to do so for you going forward.

I also take Heme iron, which absorbs better than other forms of iron, and it causes less GI issues. It does cost more but is something I believe is important enough to pay extra for.