Question:
4 weeks post-op and I still feel the same

I had open rny 4 weeks ago and except for the incision healing, I still feel the same i.e. lousy. I get about 50 oz. fluids in and have started on 1 protein shake a day mixed with half a banana, ice and 500mg. calcium citrate. For food some days I'll have an egg or chicken broth. I walk only every other day but tend to stay active during the day while at home. I really need some advice. My doc. doesn't seem to think anything's wrong but I really believe I should be feeling better. Maybe I'm just a slow healer. I started at 268 and am down 25 lbs. Thanks.    — kelleykeith (posted on October 24, 2002)

October 24, 2002
Your body just went through MAJOR surgery, you have to give it lots of time to heal and recover. And, after surgery, we consume so very little calories and our bodies are just not used to funcioning on so little food. I felt like crap for at least 8 weeks. I am 12 weeks out now, and just now starting to feel normal again. I thought feeling lousy would never end! Take your vitamins, try to get in a lot of protein, take a few naps if you need to during the day (and if you can) and drink as much water as you can. I know it is really hard to feel normal again. I still have my "yucky" days, but they are getting further and further apart. You may also want your doctor to do some blood work if he hasn't already to check your iron levels to make sure you are not anemic. IF you are, iron will help you feel less tired. GOOD LUCK! (open RNY 7/23/02 -74 lbs)
   — Shawnie S.

October 24, 2002
I have said this before, and I will say it agian. The first 6-9 weeks are hell!! If my surgeon had offered me the opportunity for a reversal during that time, I Would have jumped back on the operating room table in a heart beat!! It does get better. I promise.
   — Vicki L.

October 25, 2002
Everyone is different in how they recover from this surgery. Some seem to bounce back quickly and are back at work in mere days! Others take longer. I was pretty worn out and nauseous most of the first 6 weeks or so. Energy came back slowly and seemed to increase as I was able to eat more, especially good protein. Exercise will increase too, and believe it or not, helps you recover. So, continue eating protein frequently, getting plenty of rest and water and exericse (every other day is fine). Your weight is right on target. Good luck.
   — Cindy R.

October 25, 2002
I think it's in this statement..."My doc. doesn't seem to think anything's wrong but I really believe I should be feeling better." that you will find your answer.... If you are like me, you probably feel like - wooo hooo 25 pounds, big deal. Well on one hand it is a big deal - it's great, but on the other hand you feel that...I'm glad this much weight is gone, but I've seen it in the past. You just CAN'T believe that this is really going to work after all your other attempts. Believe me it will work for you! I went through that phase and still do occasionally. This surgery is a God-send and IT WILL WORK FOR YOU just as it has other's here on this site! Remember, misery is an enevitable part of life, how you choose to face it - whether good or bad - determines what kind of person you are to be. Chin up Kelley You've actually done something that's going to be FANTASTIC for you and your future. I'm 6 months out and down almost 100 pounds you'll get there just remember you're the one who determines how quickly it takes. We're all here to give you the support you need. ;o) Linda
   — lindajenkins