After weight loss (bariatric) surgery, most people do well, but some problems can show up later that we as your GP can help with. You might notice tummy pain, feeling sick or being sick, or that food feels like it’s getting stuck when you eat, which can happen if there’s a narrowing where the surgery was done. Some people find that food moves too quickly through their body, making them feel dizzy, sweaty, or causing diarrhoea after meals. Heartburn or stomach discomfort can also happen. Because your body may not absorb vitamins and minerals as well after surgery, you might feel very tired, notice hair thinning, or develop other symptoms if levels become low, so regular blood tests are important. It’s also common to struggle with drinking enough fluids, which can lead to dehydration. Some people may regain some weight over time or need support with their eating habits. If you have severe tummy pain, keep being sick, or notice any bleeding, it’s important to seek medical help urgently.
To prevent many of these complicatons it is important people who have had bariatic surgery have regualr blood tests and take vitamins and supplements daily and life long to support their diet life .
- A-Z multi-vitamin and mineral (buy from your pharmcist or supermarket - see below)
- ADCAL D3 – twice a day (prescribed)
- Iron - once a day (prescribed)
- B12 injections - every 3 month given by the our Nurse
- A proton pump inhibitir to help with heartburn is recommended for the first 3 months after surgery (prescribed)
Examples of multivitamins you can buy include, Sanatogen A-Z Complete, Holland and Barrat ABC-Z, Superdrug A-Z, Tesco A-Z, Sainsburys A-Z, Morrisons A-Z, Asda A-Z and Aldi Activ Max everyday health care A-Z. Take 2 tablets a day of these multivitamins.
There are regualr blood tests required - initially at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after the operation and then once a year for life:
Full blood count, liver, kidney, ferritin (iron), folate, vitamin B12, calcium, vitmain D and HbA1c (blood sugar)
It is your responsibility to have these blood tests done. Please contact the practice for blood forms as needed.
For more information on the above recommendations please click here.
We understand the waiting list on the NHS for this surgery can feel overhwleming and long and some patients look elsewhere such as aboard for this surgery. Please read this very important statement from the Birtish Obesity amn Metabolic Specialist Society if you considering this.
Please click here for more useful information and guidance on weight loss surgery.