Question:
Why is my husband PTSD with conversions now after surgery?

My husband had wls in Feb. 2003 and has done great when all of a sudden he had stroke like symptoms. They have since diagnosed him with PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) with conversion disorder. They say this is directly relating with childhood abuse issues and the fact that (Food) his coping mechanism isnt there anymore....HELP....what can I do...I'm only 8 months post and am having a hard time with this.    — Brooke B. (posted on September 3, 2003)

September 3, 2003
Hi. I'm sorry this is happening to your husband and to you. It must feel really scary. If you choose to look at the silver lining, this is a great opportunity for him to learn to use other healthier coping skills instead of food. Meanwhile, while he is having these symptoms, I think it is very important that he be talking with someone who is specialized with food addictions. I think you should go with him if possible and ask your husband and your therapist how you can be supportive to him during this time. Tell yourselves that this is not a permanent thing. It is an unfortunate means to a good ending. Talk with him about his decision to have the surgery and how drastically it will improve your lives, remind yourselves how miserable you were pre op, and how FOOD ruled your life. Keep a journal and just be there for him. You both will be fine. Have faith, and lean on it daily. God Bless You Both!
   — Michele B.

September 3, 2003
This is one of the reasons I feel strongly that people go through counseling before the surgery - hopefully you and your husband are now in touch with a good mental health provider, if you hadn't been already. I agree with the other poster - it is certainly a difficult place to be in, but without WLS, he would have kept stuffing his problems - at least this way the issues can get resolved in a healthy way, and he will be around to enjoy his new life, both physically and emotionally improved. Try to remember that many people turn to different "drugs", and food is certainly one of them. You and your husband are now in a surgical rehab program - and it will be a hard couple of years, but you will definitely see improvement if you get the help he needs.
   — bethybb

September 3, 2003
Hey Brooke, This may sound weird but I read on a site (and I can't remember now what site, or what I was looking for at the time) that THIAMINE DEFICIENCY can cause a type of encephalitis/neuro problem in rare cases after gastric bypass surgery... can cause speech problems, abnormal gait, not sure what all else. I may try to do a search on it to see if I can find out more... I do remember reading that this is caused by the rapid weight loss and severe lack of nutrients and is something that is not routinely checked. May be a long shot but you never know. If I find more info I will e mail you... Pam in GA
   — Pam B.

September 5, 2003
Brooke, I'd keep looking for medical reasons for this. I want to let you know that many people with problems seem to fit these people's PTSD diagnosis and aren't necessarily suffering from it. (my little girl was one & it was a BAD experience) I'm not saying your husband doesn't have it but don't give up on finding other explanations. And remember, no matter how they put it to you. The path of your treatment (or decision to be treated at all) is up to you, not them.
   — Shelly S.