Question:
Dizziness and headaches at 5 months post-op

I am 5 months post op and down 87 lbs. Lately I have started feeling very dizzy when I stand up from sitting or lying down. Also, I RARELY get headaches since WLS (and quitting Diet Coke) but lately I'm getting them everyday. Combine those two things with my hair falling out like CRAZY...and I'm getting DISCOURAGED! Any ideas?    — Julle N. (posted on June 9, 2002)

June 9, 2002
Have you had your blood pressure checked recently?
   — ZaZa F.

June 9, 2002
I was getting very dizzy every time I stood up too about 4 months post-op. My PCP said that I was borderline anemic and prescribed me iron. I was also very fatigued but didn't get headaches. Maybe you should look into your labs. I hope you start to feel better.
   — Nichole B.

June 9, 2002
You are not taking in enough protein (dizziness and hair loss). Also, you might want to try to drink more liquids and eat more often. Your blood sugar level is probably really low and you are probably dehydrated when the headaches come on.
   — Julie W.

June 9, 2002
I get this too. I am glad you asked the question
   — hklang70

June 9, 2002
I went through that for months and I am one year post-op this month. Turns out, I had walking pneumonia and did not know it! Anti-biotics did wonders for me! I didn't even know I was sick! I wrote it off to "allergies, anemia, low blood pressure, not enough water, etc." It took a good Internist to get me on the right path again.
   — Barbara B.

June 9, 2002
I haven't had any bloodwork done since surgery. Haven't had blood pressure checked for three months....but have an appointment with my surgeon on June 17th. Guess I'll have a few things to discuss with him. :-) Thank you so much for all the suggestions. The protein comment really made me think. I ran out of my protein powder a couple weeks ago. hmmmmmm...guess it's time to order more!!
   — Julle N.

June 9, 2002
My surgeon told me that the reason I was having dizzy spells is because my labs are low. He suggested that I drink Pedialyte for a few days to help. It did help tremendously. I buy the fruit flavor and add a little bit of water to it and I haven't had any problems since.
   — Tammy B.