Question:
What could be causing lighthadednes post-op?
I had surgery on 1/8/02 and have lost 140 pounds so far. I have had no complications or problems until now. Recently i have been experiencing some fatigue and I get really light headed when i stand up or move around quickly. I have an appointment with my surgeon on 8/12, but would like to know if others have had the same experience and what was done to help correct the problem. I have been really good about my protein and supplements, but could do better on getting more water (I get about 40 oz. daily now). — Angela A. (posted on August 2, 2002)
August 2, 2002
Are you on blood pressure medication? If so, it might need to be
adjusted. For the dizziness, you may want to take your time standing up
and try not to make sudden movements.
— John Rushton
August 2, 2002
Until your appt with your surgeon, try doubling your water
intake...sometimes dehydration causes lightheadedness. Low blood pressure
does too.
— Cindy R.
August 2, 2002
Angela, I get lightheaded when my iron is low, and also with my
"hayfever". (My sinuses really get me this time of year. I feel
tired and dizzy a lot.) Make sure he is aware of this so he will be sure to
order the proper labs. I also agree with the last two posters about the
dehydration and B.P. meds. (if app.). Dehydration has been an especially
big issue this summer due to the intense heat. Good Luck!
— Tina B.
August 2, 2002
it could be a sign of dehydration. i have been very tired lately and i just
read in the weight loss book that the signs of dehydration are dry mouth,
fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and dry lips. hmmmm, have them all. also,
concetrated urine (very dark in color). try to drink more...
— candymom64
August 2, 2002
I agree with both previous posters. I just had my 3 month post-op
appointment this morning and mentioned the same symptoms of
dizziness/lightheadedness. She said it could 1 of 3 things: (1) not enough
water (it's hotter than heck where I live, and I only get in 40-48 oz. of
water per day); (2) blood pressure (it can't be that, mine is 120/80); or
(3) too much calcium (can you believe it?!). I have been taking tums with
calcium as well as my Vista Vitamins. The nurse told me to drink more
water, not take the tums any more and if my dizziness continues, I am to
let her know so we can do more testing. By the way, my blood/lab work all
came back with flying colors - everything is normal now!
— Jennifer A.
August 2, 2002
I'm almost 15 months post op, and this happens all the time. I've been very
scared I would pass out. 90% of the time it's when I get up from a sitting
position. But it does happen other times too. My blood pressure pre op was
around 139/90-100. Now it's usually 110/62. (I've never taken blood
pressure meds). I'm assuming my already low (?) blood pressure drops when I
stand? I don't know, but I sure don't like it. And it is a POST OP thing.
(No trouble Pre Op).
— Danmark
August 2, 2002
I'm almost 2 years out and this has started happening to me also about 3
months ago. I find that it definitely has something to do with my water
intake. When I'm feeling this way, I drink plenty and it goes away. I'm
usually find during the day and often notice this at night (after I've went
the evening without drinking much).
— Lynette B.
August 2, 2002
Fiirst, talk with your doctor; he/she may want to check your electrolytes
and blood pressure. Fatigue and lightheadedness are symptoms of low blood
pressure. But, first and foremost, call your doctor.
— Patty_Butler
August 5, 2002
Hi Angela - happened to me too. I'm only 4-months out but I had a period
of time where if it weren't for the walls in my house, I would have surely
fell down. The entire room would feel as though it was spinning - as if I
were incredibly drunk or something. I was only getting out of bed but it
was horrible. I'm not sure what caused it and I made a trip to my PCP to
check on things - all checked out to be okay. They gave me some lame
excuse about some deep, inner ear infection that must be present although
it couldn't be seen - I don't think so though. After reading others who
are post-op, I've realized this is pretty normal but I'm not sure why. If
you get an explanation that makes perfect sense, write me and share it,
will ya? I'm truly curious as to what you find out.
— Lisa J.
Click Here to Return