Anyone Else Have Trouble Focusing Post-Op?

[gamergirl 4,609]

I used to be very driven at work before the surgery, and was able to hyper-focus and just crank stuff out. I don't know if it's the lower calories, lower carbs, the distraction of the surgery and recovery or what, but I struggle to focus. I can't read two pages in a book without getting distracted. This from the woman who used to read 2-3 books a week. I just ran 2-3 days of workshops effectively so the gray matter still works, just can't focus on quiet tasks like I used to.

Is this to be expected? Is it nutrition/recovery related? I'm 4 months out.

And since a picture is worth a thousand words--not to mention more amusing than my dry recitation above--a pic for you.

[mistysj 1,939]

Yep. I think for me part of my brain is constantly engaged with surgery and weight loss stuff even almost 7 months out. I also have lots of work-related stuff on my mind and it is all different stuff so I tend to bounce between it. I am more socially and professionally active now because I'm more confident and that creates distractions too.

[Fluffnomore 1,235]

I can concentrate, but I am also preoccupied with WLS, this web site, etc. Today I'm running around trying to organize files from the last 2 months because I feel like this has been such a drain on my attention.

And to your point, yes, I think when we lose the sedative effect of food and have to concentrate on fueling up more frequently we might be more prone to distraction. That and I keep thinking of things to do (and have more energy to do them.) So I often find myself inexplicably starting a project right now rather planning and waiting. Which means that there are more undone projects sitting around.

I don't know. I'd like to continue this discussion but I see something shiny over there.

Edited December 7, 2013 by Fluffnomore

[BKLYNgal87 503]

I agree! This site is bad for concentrating, especially at work

I had more trouble concentrating before the surgery because I had sleep apnea. This has improved tremendously after losing nearly 80 lbs. But I still find myself fighting to get work done during the day sometimes. The internet offers so many other distractions! To cope I've started developing little systems to keep me on track. Before I leave work for the night, I write out a list of the most critical things I need to do the next morning. I keep a schedule of my day at work broken up by theme - I am a coordinator, I do a zillion different things at work (emergencies come up often that derail the schedule, but at least most of the time I can stay on track). Lists definitely seem to help me. Almost daily exercise helps me clear my head as well.

As for the reading predicament, are you reading John LeCarre or James Joyce (lol jk)? When's the next time you're due for labs? It's a possibility that nutrient deficiency could be a factor. But if they come back normal then there are some things you can do to re-focus. I used to do daily meditation in college. It was a tremendous help if you make it a habit.

[RJ'S/beginning 5,357]

I have had problems concentrating ever since I left the hospital...i have not been able to write one word in my unfinished novels or stories and have not written 1 poem since I came home..I know part of it is because of the coma lost some memory..I can't even watch much TV and have not touched a book in months...

I am always watching this forum and reading food porn.... Have been spending the last 2 hours looking for a lost pair of earrings....So far they have not appeared....Still looking must go back to the task at hand.....oops...

should get some Water first...ah forget it...totally mixed up....crap!

[Seela 1,187]

I am like ADD x 100

[Butterthebean 8,146]

I was already an Olympic ADHD champeen. So welcome to the club. I don't think it's the surgery. It's this crazy ass forum.

Plus you're probably daydreaming about that bikini you're gonna rock next summer.

[Arts137 1,811]

My job is mucho tense and Very Political (like testifying before Congress). And I do it well. No brain slump for me, and I get to retire VERY soon so the stress level (a BIG trigger for me) will drop

[beckyanna1982 3]

I can concentrate, i am just in a fog, like things arent real. Its a scary feeling and causes me alot of anxiety. It gets better once ive eaten or had a Protein Shake, but sometimes i wonder if it will ever go away....

[gamergirl 4,609]

My job is mucho tense and Very Political (like testifying before Congress). And I do it well. No brain slump for me, and I get to retire VERY soon so the stress level (a BIG trigger for me) will drop

Good to hear Arts. Maybe it's a mental discipline issue because when I had to focus, I did just fine. I may just need to spank myself.

[deedadumble 1,033]

Have you had your thyroid levels checked since surgery? Because you've lost weight, your dosage may need decreased. Mine has gone from 137mg Synthroid 6/week to 100mg Synthroid /day. I was having a really hard time concentrating before the dosage was lowered. Also, I hate to admit it, but the only thing that helps me concentrate on some days is 1/2 bottle of 5 hour energy. I know it's not the best thing for me, but I don't drink coffee. It's like turning the on switch on my brain. I can focus all day with it. I'm needing it so much less now that my dosage is lowered.

[gamergirl 4,609]

Have you had your thyroid levels checked since surgery? Because you've lost weight, your dosage may need decreased. Mine has gone from 137mg Synthroid 6/week to 100mg Synthroid /day. I was having a really hard time concentrating before the dosage was lowered. Also, I hate to admit it, but the only thing that helps me concentrate on some days is 1/2 bottle of 5 hour energy. I know it's not the best thing for me, but I don't drink coffee. It's like turning the on switch on my brain. I can focus all day with it. I'm needing it so much less now that my dosage is lowered.

Yes I have, and you are right, my dosage has indeed gone down. The last blood test showed I'm at the right dosage now. What is in 5-hour energy? Caffeine? Because I'm a avid coffee drinker and I'm sure I get enough caffeine

I'm seriously thinking of trying bulletproof coffee to see if it helps.

[Mama Spike 144]

Unfortunately, anesthesia stays in your body much longer than you think. Couple that with a significant calorie reduction and you may experience significant fogginess. There is a lot of research on both. Start with an understanding that it takes time coupled with Protein, Water and good chiropractic care and the fog will slowly subside.

[deedadumble 1,033]

Yes I have, and you are right, my dosage has indeed gone down. The last blood test showed I'm at the right dosage now. What is in 5-hour energy? Caffeine? Because I'm a avid coffee drinker and I'm sure I get enough caffeine I'm seriously thinking of trying bulletproof coffee to see if it helps.

One bottle has the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. Here's the ingredient list:

Vitamins

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B12

Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)

Energy Blend

Citicoline

Tyrosine

Phenylalanine

Taurine

Malic Acid

Glucuronolactone

Caffeine

[deedadumble 1,033]

I also noticed I have been feeling more focused the last week. About 2 weeks ago I started taking Methyl B12 instead of normal B12 and I think that has a lot to do with it. I suspected I had a MTHFR (mthfr.org) genetic mutation because of having hashimotos and some other indications. I got tested and sure enough I have 2 MTHFR mutations. I first read about it in Stop the Thyroid Madness: http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/mthfr/