Gastric Sleeve and Dehydration: Knowing the Risks
Our leading weight loss surgery experts based in Tijuana perform highly effective procedures that help people lose weight and achieve a healthier overall lifestyle. This includes gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy), an effecitve option for surgical weight loss.
Part of undergoing bariatric surgery is knowing the potential risks involved. With that in mind, let's consider the issue of dehydration and how that plays a part in a gastric sleeve procedure.
Is dehydration a potential risk after gastric sleeve surgery?
Yes, and one that patients need to consider as they adjust to their new lifestyle and diet. A number of people who have undergone bariatric surgery notice that they suffer from dehydration, or simply do not stay well-hydrated enough. This is one of the potential risks that we make sure to cover during the consultation phase of the treatment process.
Why does dehydration occur following gastric sleeve?
After you undergo bariatric surgery, patients often experience fewer sensations or less pronounced sensations of hunger and thirstiness as a result of their smaller stomach pouch. As a result, they tend to end less, which is great for losing weight, but they also tend to drink less fluid. The latter can lead to issues with dehydration, especially since patients typically do not drink while they are eating foods.
Patients need to be careful as they recover from their gastric sleeve surgery, noting the needs of their bodies and really being attuned to any issues with hunger, thirstiness, and nutritional deficiencies as they arise.
Symptoms of Dehydration to Consider
Some common symptoms of dehydration include:
- Increased thirstiness
- Dry mouth
- Swollen tongue
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Slugishness
- Fainting spells
If a patient is seriously dehydrated, just drinking glasses of water will not suffice or address the problem quick enough. IV hydration at a medical facility will be necessary instead. Should you notice several of the symptoms above, be sure to seek immediate medical attention as soon as possible.
Ways of Fighting and Preventing Dehydration
The best way to prevent dehydration after gastric sleeve surgery is to drink water regularly between meals. It's recommended that 64 ounces of water be consumed a day. Keep in mind that this can change based on physical exertion and any dryness or heat in your neck of the woods.
We recommend that patients sip water through the day to get the hydration that they need. Avoid sugary beverages for hydration as much as possible. And again, be mindful of what you're feeling and what your body needs through the day.
Always be Mindful of Your Diet
Bariatric procedures of all kinds are major changes to your lifestyle. This means making the necessary adjustments to address your dietary needs. If you need help when it comes to issues that involve hydration or your diet, be sure to speak with our team. We will be more than happy to provide you with sound advice and guidance as you recover from surgery and lose weight.
Schedule a Consultation at Tijuana Bariatrics
For more information about bariatric surgery and how it can help you achieve a healthier lifestyle, it's important that you contact our bariatric surgery center today.
