Constipation is a common problem after gastric sleeve surgery. The main reason here is insufficient water and fluid intake after surgery.
So why can't patients get enough fluid after surgery? Is the reason for low fluid consumption actually decreasing stomach volume?
Stomach Anatomy and Waldeyer Street In gastric sleeve surgery, which is performed by narrowing the stomach longitudinally and making it smaller, early satiety and weight loss is achieved, especially with solid foods.
Surgery. In a normal stomach, there are folds called Waldeyer's Stomach Avenue located in the inner part of the stomach. These folds are the route that covers the shortest distance between the esophagus and small intestine. With sleeve gastrectomy surgery, the outer part of the stomach is removed and this street structure is not damaged. In other words, after an operation performed in accordance with the standards, there is no obstacle to the passage of liquid food through the stomach.
So why does constipation occur after gastric sleeve surgery?
Low Food, Low Fluid Consumption
We said that the most important factor in constipation after gastric sleeve surgery is low water and fluid consumption. The reason for low fluid intake is the decrease in the feeling of thirst. Yes, when a person eats, he becomes thirsty. Not eating reduces the need for water and fluids. This situation is entirely related to human physiology.
Sodium (Na) contained in foods is the most important substance that enables water retention in the kidneys. Water and sodium are like an inseparable duo. If you remember your high school chemistry years, sodium is mostly found in the salt structure (NaCl). Low nutrition will reduce our need for thirst by causing low sodium and salt intake.
You Should Drink Adequate Fluid for Constipation
For constipation after gastric sleeve surgery, you should drink enough fluid even if you do not feel thirsty. . Most of the fluid taken should be from water. Drink at least one liter of water in the first week after surgery, and increase water intake to two liters in the following days.
Drinking insufficient water is also the most common cause of fatigue after sleeve gastrectomy surgery. So much so that some patients may have to drink fluids by taking serum intravenously from time to time. Take Action
Gastric sleeve surgery Since it is performed laparoscopically, it is very comfortable for patients and the transition to daily life is equally easy. For this reason, low-tempo walks should be started after the surgery, especially in the second week. Walking will speed up bowel movements and correct the constipation problem.
In addition, if the constipation problem persists despite all precautions, a solution can be created with medication. You may need to get help from your doctor on this matter.
Stay healthy..
Read: 0
