Why am i losing weight after hernia surgery? After undergoing hernia surgery, some patients probably experience weight loss issues. Besides the painful suffering and difficult conditions of the surgery, weight loss can also be an added problem in some cases. Although it does not apply to all, certain individuals still suffer weight loss after hiatal hernia surgery.
Let this blog explore the probable causes for weight loss after the surgery and give you some useful information on tackling such scenarios.
What is a Hiatal Hernia?
A hernia is a hole, tear or a kind of damage that occurs in a muscular structure. This can lead to bulging out of essential tissue. Typically, this hernia health concern happens in the esophagus if a part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm.
This condition can occur due to weakness of the supporting tissue. The diaphragm keeps the abdomen organs of a person in place.
In some cases, people suffering from hiatal hernias may not experience any symptoms. Some of the potential symptoms cover:
- Heartburn
- Acid reflux
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Feelings of fullness while eating
Finding Hernias Right Before Surgery
In most cases, Hiatal hernias don’t need surgery. The causes that may lead to the structural weakness and leading to a hiatal hernia are not very specific or obvious. The probable cause can be pressure on the diaphragm.
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In general, doctors will evaluate during pre-surgery and find out a hiatal hernia. These are usually detected through X-ray tests (particularly taken for the case). This evaluation reveals the images of the esophagus and stomach.
Other tests and procedures used to find a hiatal hernia
Endoscopy
It examines the digestive system with an endoscope, a long, and thin tube with a tiny camera.
Esophageal manometry
This test helps in assessing the rhythmic muscle contractions in the esophagus. This test also helps in measuring the coordination and force of the muscles of your esophagus.
Who Needs Hiatal Hernia Surgery?
Surgery is the last choice prescribed for the patients. In most cases, the patients will be advised of lifestyle changes that would help in minimizing discomfort and acid production in the stomach.
But, if the patients feel severe symptoms and medication does not help them, then surgery is the final approach. Cases with narrowing esophagus also demand surgical intervention.
Weight Loss After Hiatal Hernia Surgery – What can be the potential causes?
It is common for all to face some weight loss during his/her recovery phase. Our data shows that 2 years of weight loss surgery, BMI reduction of 39% has been witnessed.
Moreover, immediately after surgery, patients will not be allowed to drink or eat unless a specialist examines the patients and ensures their ability to eat/drink. However, it is very important to know the difference between healthy weight loss and problematic conditions. Losing a few in a few weeks is normal for many cases. Any extreme or sudden weight loss can be a red flag and need immediate attention.
Some of the factors that can lead to weight loss can be:
- Patients may be advised to take a liquid diet which would help in reducing the pressure and discomfort at the place of surgery. This kind of eating habit can cause the person to drop a few pounds gradually.
- The surgery procedure involves reducing the size of the stomach. This leads to satisfaction with less consumption of food. This also can lead to weight loss. Generally, reduced appetite after the surgery can be one of the reasons for weight loss.
- The body’s natural healing process after surgery demands extra energy to repair tissues. This increased metabolism can raise the calorie spend and thus can result in weight loss.
- To accept, hiatal hernia surgery is a stressful and painful experience. Hence the emotional fluctuations of the patient can impact their eating habits. This can lead to weight loss after the surgery.
- Post-surgery conditions such as nausea, bloating, or discomfort in the digestive system can be experienced by some people. This also affects the intake of food and ends up losing weight.
- Reduced physical activity after the recovery period for prolonged days can also cause weight loss
- After surgery, patients can experience fluid retention. The reduction in fluid retention can also serve as a cause for temporary weight loss.
How do you identify problematic weight loss after surgery?
As said, finding problematic weight loss is highly important to avoid further health complications. As early as possible you find the issue, you can have a successful recovery and maintain your well-being.
A key to figuring out problematic weight loss conditions is to monitor the rate of weight loss. If you witness a weight loss of more than 5% in just a month, it signals to have immediate medical attention. Have an eye on your weight loss, especially if you are off a diet or exercise routine.
If you continue to lose weight even after an immediate post-surgery phase, it should be immediately addressed with medical attention. You should also look for other symptoms such as constant pain, vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, or similar gastrointestinal problems.
How to manage weight loss after hiatal hernia surgery?
A well-drafted recovery plan that focuses on your overall health and wellness can help in managing the weight loss issue after the surgery. Emphasizing a balanced and nutrition-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains fulfils your health needs. Make sure that you follow the dietary recommendations given by the healthcare provider.
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Drinking adequate water makes you stay hydrated and avoids fatigue conditions. Ensure to have sufficient rest hours after the surgery and this helps in the healing process. Don’t fail to stick to follow-up appointments scheduled by the health provider. Manage the stress and emotional fluctuations after the surgery through meditation and deep breathing practices.
Conclusion
Losing weight after hiatal hernia surgery can be a major issue with some patients. Since the surgery changes the digestive system and your food intake you may lose weight. Always consider your health as a top priority and consult with a physician when you notice any abnormal weight loss after the surgery.
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