Question:
I've been drinking my protien as much as you can on 1/4 of a cup at a time

but I still don't seem to be getting my energy level back. I am 6 days post op and with of course the several days of not eating before surgery and and now I can't seem to get enough energy. Second, I have been having problem with my ankle in my right leg swelling (also prior to surgery) and then it feels like theres no circulation. Prior to surgery they did a Venous doppler and it came back negative for blood clots and last night it bothered me so much I went to the ER and they did another, with a negative result again. Now as I sit here I feel a slight temperature coming. Should I start to eat a bit more or what do any of you think? I'm just so afraid to eat because I'm afraid I will tear something or hurt myself and I'm going through great depression. Any and all advice welcome.    — Karen S. (posted on August 19, 2003)

August 19, 2003
Karen, Some people are slow getting their energy back for me it was more like 4-5 weeks. I thought it would take forever. I was recovered before that time I just didn't have my energy and strength back.
   — Noreen M.

August 19, 2003
I am pre-op and from what I know you are going to be weak for a while, just keep getting your fluids and protein if you can, fluids are much more important at this stage though. I have swelling in my feet, legs and ankles....it always has seemed that one swells more than the other, who knows why but if they tell you there is nothing to worry about try and put your mind at ease. You will start feeling better day by day, rest up & take care!
   — Saxbyd

August 19, 2003
Karen, did you have an open or a lap? It does take some time to get the energy back. Don't fight it or get discouraged. Do what you can and give it time. I was just getting back into the swing of things after 6 weeks. At first you will NOT be able to eat or drink much. Do the best you can and and follow your doctor's instructions. Things improve rapidly after 4-6 weeks. Open RNY 10/30/02 down 187 lbs.
   — Ginger M.

August 23, 2003
Karen, I'm almost 6 weeks post-op and I went through the same things. Pain in my leg, having a Doppler and finding nothing and the pain of it waking me up at night. As long as they've ruled out any problems, know that it will eventually clear up. Mine did around week three. The protein wasn't easy to get in for me either but I kept at it and took as much as I could, working up the ounces until I got enough. Do NOT let yourself get dehydrated!! I did and it's bad! When you're told the consequences it makes it much easier to choke down the stuff. Just be sure whatever you can eat has protein, protein, protein. I can't stress that enough. Take each day at a time and you'll be amazed how the weeks pass and you're eating again....take care!! :) Dianne Mann
   — Dianne M.