Question:
1 1/2 weeks post op and always DIZZY

I am drinking 2 to 3 protein shakes a day and constantly drinking water but I am still dizzy. Doctor said that I can have gaterade, tried that but still dizzy. What can this be from and what can I do to get ride of it. I feel great otherwise.    — Iz V. (posted on May 9, 2002)

May 9, 2002
If you are still on any pain meds it could be that. I stopped taking pain meds at 6 days out as I was constantly dizzy. Once I stopped them the dizziness went away for me.
   — tn683

May 9, 2002
Were you taking any bp meds pre-op? If so, are you still on the same dose? It might be low blood pressure.
   — garw

May 9, 2002
I too have had dizzy dizzy times -- and for me it has been low blood pressure -- I did not have a problem with blood pressure before surgery -- lucy me -- Now my doc's office has me taking chiken broth with full salt -- ie the old fashioned kind -- yup very salty -- but it helps the pressure -- also V8 juice (not the low sodium) helps to sip on during the day -- this is in addition to your protein drinks -- and water -- but drink the "salty" stuff more than the water -- you may feel like you are floating away - but it has helped me. Hang in there I am 3 weeks post surgery TODAY!
   — Kathleen G.

May 9, 2002
Gatorade? How are you making up the protein shakes? You might want to check the sugar g you are taking in. Serving size vs sugar g. It's possible you're keeping yourself on the edge of dumping all the time?
   — vitalady

May 10, 2002
Gatorade is definitely NOT a good idea, at leat not in high volumes. I had the same problem. I was so dizzy I couldnt get up without rushing to lay back down. I called the Dr. because I was worried that I needed blood again. He just said it was dehydration too. I spent the rest of the day drinking unsweetened iced tea, and I felt better. THe next day I decided I would try to drink a bunch of gatorade before trying to get up, I was worse off that day. I have found the sugar makes me very dizzy. You can try a little, but I wouldnt recommend too much.
   — Michell C.

May 10, 2002
I agree that this sounds like dehydration... and echo the previous post that good old chicken broth would be a much better choice than Gatorade. Otherwise, keep up the constant sip sip sipping! Let us know how you do...
   — Sarah B.