[39F] Experiencing postprandial headaches and fatigue post-gastric sleeve surgery

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few potential explanations for what you might be experiencing:

1. Dumping Syndrome: Given your history of gastric sleeve surgery, dumping syndrome is a possibility. This condition occurs when food moves too quickly from your stomach to your small intestine, leading to symptoms like fatigue, confusion, irritability, abdominal pain, and dizziness after eating. It can also cause changes in blood sugar levels, which might explain your symptoms of confusion and irritability.

2. Reactive Hypoglycemia: This condition can occur after eating, especially if you consume foods high in carbohydrates. It involves a drop in blood sugar levels, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, confusion, irritability, and dizziness. This could be related to your gastric sleeve surgery, as changes in digestion can affect blood sugar regulation.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies: After gastric sleeve surgery, it's common to experience deficiencies in vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. These deficiencies can lead to fatigue, headaches, and other symptoms. Your difficulty swallowing meat and infrequent bowel movements may also contribute to these deficiencies.

4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): The severe stomach pain near your sternum after eating could be related to GERD, a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and pain.

What you can do

Dumping Syndrome and Reactive Hypoglycemia:

• Consider eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help manage symptoms.
• Focus on a balanced diet with adequate protein and fiber, and limit high-sugar and high-carbohydrate foods.
• Keep a food diary using MDandMe to track what you eat and how it affects your symptoms. This can help identify trigger foods and patterns.

Nutritional Deficiencies:

• Consult with a healthcare provider about getting blood tests to check for vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
• Consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements as recommended by your healthcare provider to address any deficiencies.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):

• Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger reflux, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Try eating smaller meals and avoid lying down immediately after eating.
• Over-the-counter antacids may provide temporary relief, but consult with a healthcare provider for a long-term management plan.

What you should look out for

• If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration, seek medical attention promptly.
• Monitor for any new or worsening symptoms, such as significant weight loss, persistent confusion, or changes in bowel habits.
• Keep track of your symptoms using MDandMe to provide detailed information to your healthcare provider, which can aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.