Question:
I am 9 days post op and feeling down - normal?
Having soooo many cravings for foods. Don't want to talk to anyone other then those who force me to talk to them (like my family). I feel so healthy - can't see how this surgery is really going to work. Scared to eat too much because I am afraid that I won't be successful in losing weight. Have others go through the same thing? If yes, how did you handle? — Yvette W. (posted on March 28, 2002)
March 28, 2002
Hi Yvette. I'd say that at 9 days post op you are completely normal. The
combination of the physical trauma of surgery, anesthesia, pain and loss of
our good friend "food" can often lead to mild depression. In
dealing with bariatric patients regularly I generally find that this
"What in the world have I done to myself" phase lasts anywhere to
a few hours to a few weeks. I think all WLS patients feel they are the
only person in the world that this surgery won't work for. However, at 9
days post op you are probably physically incapable of eating enough of
anything that would prevent substantial weight loss. Head hunger can be
overwhelming at this stage in the game. If your surgeon allows it - we
recommend that our patients eat cheerios, one at a time, when they
experience heavy duty head hunger at this point. Once you've munched your
way through just 1/2 a serving you will find that the head hunger is
subsiding and you've actually eaten something healthy too. Often,
dissolving 1 little orange flavored Tic Tac in your mouth during an intense
craving will make you feel worlds better. Don't beat yourself up. Give
yourself a break. You might need to just step back from this and refocus.
I'm sure your family only wants to help you. Maybe if you gently told them
that you just need a little time to yourself they'd understand. Also, when
I was about 2 weeks post op I decided I couldn't stand feeling gloomy
anymore so I took a long hot shower, fixed my hair, put on my make-up, got
dressed in casual clothes and just sat on the front porch. It made me feel
human again. Sometimes even allowing yourself to have a good cry can help.
If this depression doesn't ease up shortly you might want to contact your
doctor just to discuss it with him. However, I have a feeling you're going
to do just fine. We're all proud of you for the efforts you've made. Hang
in there!! You're gonna make it!
— ronascott
March 28, 2002
Yvette.. I can truly understand where you are coming from. I am 20 days
post-op and boyyy was I frustrated and upset! I would find myself crying
because I couldnt believe what Id done to myself and other times I would be
sooo angry because I was feeling hungry and the foods I wanted I couldnt
eat and on top of that the foods I could eat I wasnt able to get full
becuase of too much gas in my tummy. It has begun to get a little easier
but Im sure within time, things will get easier and back to
"normal"
— S W.
March 28, 2002
Rona, this is the sweetest post. It touched my heart. One thing is for
sure...I will know where to run when it is my turn!! <giggle>
Yvette, I am pre op, so I cannot possibly know how you are feeling. But I
can try to offer support. Please contact me if you need a friend. I have
nice, firm shoulders! <smile> I truly hope you are feeling better
soon, Sweetie.
— ScatCat
March 28, 2002
I am also 9 days post op. I cry a lot and am craving all kinds of foods
(even some I didn't like before). I think it must be normal, but sometimes
it feels like it won't get better. I wish you all the best.
— jm3218
March 28, 2002
I am 7 days post op and having the EXACT problem! THank you for letting me
know that I am not alone. Hang in htere well get through this together!
— Britt W.
March 28, 2002
You are soooo normal. I am about 5 weeks out and I only started feeling
human at about 3 weeks. Be patient! It gets MUCH better! I am now doing
great and hardly any problems. If you need to talk feel free to e-mail me.
If you need a good cry take. If you just need to get away and dream how
great things are going to be for you soon....take the time. You are on
your way to health and a better life. The hardest roads we walk are often
the most rewarding.
— Oldsoul
March 28, 2002
I agree with all the other answers....you are certainly normal. Also think
about this. You were probably on morphine in the hospital and then some
form of painkillers at home too right? Maybe you even still occasionally
take one? These can cause depression. I noticed this in myself. I was
also taking an anti-nausea drug that had a depressive effect on me.
Whichever it is for you, dont worry, it'll get better, I promise. Just
wait until you have your first post-op weigh in, you'll cheer up real
quick!
— Monica H.
April 5, 2002
Your not alone! I feel soooo depressed! I actually cried on & off for
3 hours today. My husband who has been my rock since surgery (9 days ago)
thinks I have lost my mind! I'm a nurse and know better. It is a
combination of medication and pain mostly, but many other variables. Hang
in there . . . it will get better!
— Shirley R.
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