Gastric Sleeve Complications: Risks and Side Effects
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is an effective procedure to fight against obesity. However, like any surgical intervention, it carries certain risks. Understanding these risks is crucial for anyone considering this procedure. It is important to discuss these potential side effects with your doctor before having this procedure done.
While these risks exist, it’s important to note that gastric sleeve surgery is generally safe when performed by experienced surgeons in accredited facilities. Patients should thoroughly discuss these risks with their healthcare providers before making a decision. Ultimately, the potential benefits of weight loss and improved health must be carefully weighed against the risks.
Gas Pain After Gastric Sleeve
Gas pain, a common side effect of gastric sleeve surgery, arises due to the rapid movement of food in the stomach post-procedure. Also known as trapped wind, it can lead to discomfort and bloating. However, there are effective remedies to alleviate this discomfort.
- Hydration: Stay well-hydrated throughout the day by drinking enough water.
- Heating pad: Use a heating pad for relief, but be cautious not to apply heat directly to your skin.
- Probiotics: Consult your doctor about incorporating probiotics into your routine to promote a healthier digestive system.
- Healthy diet: Follow a diet that is low in fat and high in protein to aid digestion.
- Exercise: Incorporate regular exercise into your routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle post-surgery and reduce gas pain.
- Follow doctor’s instructions: Adhere to your doctor’s post-surgery instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and minimize gas-related discomfort.
It’s vital to avoid reverting to unhealthy eating habits after gastric sleeve surgery. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are key to maintaining your health and reducing the risk of gas pain and other side effects associated with gastric sleeve surgery.
Diarrhea and Constipation After Gastric Sleeve
After gastric sleeve surgery, it’s common to experience side effects like diarrhea and constipation. These issues may arise a few days post-surgery as your body adjusts to the changes in your digestive system. Conversely, diarrhea can also occur after gastric sleeve surgery.
To cure diarrhea and constipation after gastric sleeve surgery, make sure to drink enough water throughout the day and incorporate fiber-rich foods into your meals. However, if your problems seem to continue for weeks, make sure to contact your doctor regarding these issues. Ask if your doctor can recommend any medications that you can take after your surgery.
Gastric Sleeve Leak
One of the most dangerous—yet least common—risks associated with gastric sleeve is known as a gastric sleeve leak. In order to determine if your gastric sleeve is healing well or not, it is imperative that you follow up with your doctor in the initial weeks following surgery.
Your stomach and intestines form a new connection during the gastric sleeve procedure. A number of factors could cause this new relationship to break off. An infection could result from a break in this new link that allows digested food particles and digestive secretions to seep into the abdominal cavity. Septic shock and death may result from this problem. Therefore, it’s critical that you get in touch with your doctor right away if you suspect a stomach issue.
The following are a few signs of gastric sleeve leak:
- Breathing issues and stiffness in the chest
- Accelerated heart rate
- Severe stomach ache
- Low blood pressure
- Lightheadedness
- Vomiting and nausea
Antibiotics can be used to address stomach sleeve leaks. Still, additional surgery might be required to resolve the problem. However, you can be certain that your knowledgeable medical professor will take care of this matter appropriately and quickly.
Other Risks of Gastric Sleeve
Of course, there are other kinds of potential risks to gastric sleeve surgery. These include, but are not limited to:
- Anesthesia reactions: Not everyone tolerates anesthesia well. Prior to surgery, your doctor will conduct tests to ensure your body can handle it.
- Bleeding and infection: Infections can occur at the incision site, leading to excessive bleeding. Prompt attention from your surgeon is crucial.
- Nausea: Common nausea can be experienced as your body adjusts to the changes. Make sure to contact your doctor if nausea persists or worsens.
- Gallstones: Rapid weight loss increases the risk of gallstones forming.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Your body’s ability to absorb nutrients decreases, necessitating daily supplements.
It is important to mention that most of the risks associated with gastric sleeve surgery occur in less than 1% of all operations. This means that they are rare, but they might still be incredibly important. Make sure to contact your doctor immediately if you see an adverse side effect.
Who Cannot Get Gastric Sleeve
Gastric sleeve surgery, while suitable for most morbidly obese individuals, may not be appropriate for everyone. Here are factors to consider:
- Age Limitations: Surgeons may refuse gastric sleeve surgery for individuals under 18 or over 65 due to increased health risks associated with these age groups.
- Anesthesia Concerns: Those with underlying advanced diseases that prevent them from safely receiving anesthesia may not be suitable candidates for gastric sleeve surgery.
- Alcohol and Drug Issues: Individuals with alcohol and drug-related issues or addictions may not be recommended for gastric sleeve surgery. A commitment to a healthy lifestyle post-surgery is essential.
- BMI Requirement: Gastric sleeve surgery is typically performed on individuals with a BMI of 35-40 or higher, as BMI is an indication of obesity. Those with a lower BMI may not be ideal candidates for the procedure.
By considering these factors, you can determine if gastric sleeve surgery is suitable for you based on your unique circumstances and health status. However, it is important to also note that you should always check in with an experienced medical professional who will perform tests on you to determine whether you are fit for this surgery or not. For any other questions that you might have regarding the gastric sleeve surgery, you can always contact ClinicExpert.