Post-Surgery Digestive Issues: Persistent Bloating and Loss of Appetite

Postoperative loss of appetite, persistent belching, and flatulence?

I underwent surgery to remove my uterus and left ovary due to uterine fibroids on May 5th.
However, post-surgery, I have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort and have been eating very little, resulting in rapid weight loss.
I have had gallstones for many years without treatment, managing it by avoiding fatty foods, and I had not experienced any symptoms until now.
After the surgery, my gastrointestinal issues have mirrored the symptoms I previously had during gallstone attacks, leading to an ultrasound during a follow-up visit at the hospital, which confirmed the presence of gallstones.
Given that I was completely unable to eat two months post-surgery, I followed my doctor's advice and underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy on July 2nd for a permanent solution.

However, ten days post-surgery, I noticed that my symptoms have not improved.
I still experience constant belching and flatulence after eating, making it impossible to sleep.
I feel weak all over and have difficulty breathing.
I am wondering if this is due to menopause (as I have symptoms of hot flashes and am currently taking estrogen) or if it is a postoperative complication affecting my gastrointestinal system.
Returning to the original hospital seems futile, as the surgeons claim there is nothing wrong with me, but I am truly distressed.
Please provide me with some advice on what I should do next.
Thank you.

Zongzong, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/07/11

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, after undergoing a hysterectomy and oophorectomy, you mentioned experiencing decreased appetite, belching, flatulence, and weight loss.
I'm curious if you are also experiencing abdominal pain or bloating, and how your bowel movements have been.
Is there a possibility of intestinal adhesions? However, it seems unlikely to develop immediately after surgery.
It's difficult to make a diagnosis based solely on the information provided.
I recommend that you visit the hospital for an abdominal X-ray, and possibly an endoscopy or blood tests to evaluate for any other gastrointestinal, intestinal, or endocrine metabolic issues.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2004/07/11

More Info

Post-surgery digestive issues, such as persistent bloating and loss of appetite, can be quite distressing, especially after undergoing significant surgical procedures like a hysterectomy and cholecystectomy. Your symptoms, including bloating, gas, and a general feeling of weakness, can be attributed to several factors, including surgical recovery, hormonal changes, and potential gastrointestinal complications.

Firstly, after abdominal surgeries, it is common for patients to experience gastrointestinal disturbances. This can include bloating, changes in bowel habits, and decreased appetite. The surgical manipulation of the intestines can lead to temporary paralysis of the bowel, known as postoperative ileus, which can cause bloating and discomfort. This condition typically resolves on its own, but it can take time for normal bowel function to return.

Additionally, the removal of the gallbladder can also affect digestion. The gallbladder stores bile, which is essential for the digestion of fats. After gallbladder removal, bile flows directly from the liver into the intestines, which can lead to difficulties in digesting fatty foods and may cause symptoms like bloating and gas. It is advisable to follow a low-fat diet post-surgery to help your body adjust to the changes in digestion.

Your mention of experiencing symptoms similar to those of gallbladder attacks prior to surgery raises a concern about the possibility of residual issues related to your gastrointestinal tract. It is also important to consider that stress and anxiety related to your surgical recovery can exacerbate digestive symptoms. The psychological impact of surgery and the changes in your body can lead to decreased appetite and feelings of discomfort.

Hormonal changes due to menopause can also play a significant role in your symptoms. Estrogen influences various bodily functions, including digestion. If you are experiencing hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, these hormonal fluctuations can contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort. The use of estrogen therapy may help alleviate some of these symptoms, but it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Given your ongoing symptoms, it is crucial to seek further evaluation. While your surgical team may not have identified any immediate issues, persistent digestive problems warrant a comprehensive assessment. You may benefit from consulting a gastroenterologist who can evaluate your symptoms more closely. They may recommend tests such as an upper gastrointestinal series, endoscopy, or imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In the meantime, consider implementing some lifestyle modifications to help manage your symptoms. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can ease the burden on your digestive system. Keeping a food diary may help identify any specific triggers that worsen your bloating or discomfort. Staying hydrated and incorporating gentle physical activity, such as walking, can also promote digestive health.

Lastly, if you are experiencing significant emotional distress related to your symptoms, consider speaking with a mental health professional. They can provide support and coping strategies to help you manage the psychological aspects of your recovery.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to the surgical procedures you underwent, it is essential to pursue further evaluation to rule out any complications. A multidisciplinary approach involving your surgeon, a gastroenterologist, and possibly a mental health professional may provide the best pathway to recovery and improved quality of life.

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