Question:
I get very light headed when I stand up.

I am 2+ weeks post op, eating right, exercising,and drinking as much water as I can--not all 64 oz. yet. Any ideas what's up? TIA.    — [Anonymous] (posted on September 30, 2001)

September 30, 2001
ME TOO. My PCP took me off my blood pressure meds, and I still have this problem, but not nearly as bad. It started for me just over a week post op. In my case it my blood pressure, pre op it was medicated to 160 over 110. Now its typically 110 over 70 but late in the afternoon I sometimes get dizzy and was in a store with a blood pressure tester. 86 over 58 or some such too low nnumber. Circidan rythm issue according to my nutrionist. I havent fainted and my pcp doesnt seem concerned, just like my achey back he says it will go away, our bodies are going thru a big adjustment. TRY to get in more water, dehydration can cause this too.
   — bob-haller

September 30, 2001
I believe you might need a B12 shot. I was very lightheaded during the early stages and almost passed out one day. A B12 shot helped releave this problem.
   — cheryl F.

September 30, 2001
The previous posts have good advice, but I would also add "check your potassium level".
   — Danmark

September 30, 2001
another very simple thing to check first is your blood sugar...it sounds like it could be low
   — paula B.

September 30, 2001
As a nursing student, I would GUESS that you could have something called orthostatic hypotension. Meaning that your blood pressure changes (drops) more than it should when you go from a lying to sitting or sitting to standing position. You should tell your doctor about it. In the meantime, whenever you start to stand, scoot to the edge of your bed/chair and sit there a few minutes and stand up SLOWLY. It may sound corny but most of the time it works. Anyway, it's only a guess. Like I said before, the best thing you can do is ask your doctor. Good luck!!
   — Tiffany A.

October 1, 2001
I'm 10 days post op and have just started with the same problem. I get light headed and feel like I'm holding the weight of the world on my shoulders. This just started yesterday afternoon. Could hardly take the dog for a walk today. My niece, (post RNY 1 1/2 yrs), says it's from lack of food and protein. I'm starting the protein shakes today. Was feeling great up until then. One day at a time..... Lyn
   — Lyn R.