Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that reduces the size of the stomach ito aid in weight loss. Successful weight loss can occur with this surgery when prescribed exercise and healthy diets are followed. While gastric bypass has fewer complications that other bariatric surgeries, there are significant side effects and complications.
Complications during and immediately after surgery
As with any surgery, there is risk for infection, blood loss, heart attack, stroke, pneumonia and death. This surgery is performed in on the overweight or obese, which increases the risk for these complications. Complications unique to gastric bypass include injury to abdominal organs and leaking through staples in the stomach.
Short Term Complications
After gastric bypass surgery the body undergoes changes due to the rapid weight loss and decreased intake. The metabolism slows and causes symptoms such as fatigue, flu-like aching, feeling cold, mood swings and dry skin. Hair thinning and loss are common if inadequate protein is consumed. Depression often proves another common symptom of gastric bypass surgery.
Dumping syndrome also occurs after surgery. This happens when food enters the small intestine quickly resulting in pain, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness and fatigue. Eat small amounts of food, avoid liquids at meal time, limit sweets, choose foods that aren't too hot or too cold and don't lay down after meals suggests the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Dehydration proves another common problem. Make sure to consume liquids between meals to avoid dehydration.
Long term Complications
An estimated 5 percent of people will develop ulcers reports the Mayo Clinic. These occur more often in those who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as ibuprofen. Malabsorption often occurs. This often leads to anemia, kidney stones and bone disease. Vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies can also cause anemia. Vitamin B12 deficiency proves very common and supplementation, typically through monthly shots is often recommended. The changes in the absorption of calcium and oxalates increase risk for kidney stones. Decreased consumption of calcium and vitamin D, and decreased ability to absorb nutrients, increases the risk for bone disease. Ten to twenty percent of patients require follow-up operations according to Dr. Gee at Central Washington University. It is important to involve your health care team in long-term care in order to decrease risk of developing deficiencies or other complications.
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