Post-op Panic Attacks

[QuilterGal 216]

Of all the post-op medical issues I could have, panic attacks were not on my list. I had surgery a week ago yesterday, and I've woken up in the middle of the night twice feeling panicky. I'm not sure what to make of this. I don't feel stressed out, although I probably am. I have had an excellent recovery, not on any meds, and having no problems with the stage 2 diet. Maybe it's the shift in hormones? I'm not back on my birth control yet, which I used to deal with hormonal issues. Maybe that, combined with stress, eating changes, and losing weight quickly might cause it?

[Faithoftheheart 42]

Your probably right about why they occurred. Are you feeling any better? Hang in there ((hugs))

[ctsang 10]

I too had panic attacks shortly after surgery even with anxiety meds! Some of it was unknown of what life will be like 100 pounds lighter and the possibility of failure after such a huge decision. It gets better.

[Charm82 18]

Oh my God, I had a panic attack 2 nights ago and was like what the heck was that!! Never had it before, took 4 puffs of my rescue inhaler and it helped. I chucked it up to being 9 days post-op, hormones, pain, and pure tiredness. Being just recently had surgery as a nurse I know that the body becomes naturally stressed as its trying to heal and repair itself. I'm just praying it doesn't happen again

[Madtownsunshine17 42]

This is probably different, but on my 2nd day after surgery, I had 2 random crying fits. I was fine, I wasn't thinking about changes, the pain, or missing food. I guess it would be better to say I was "weepy". They gave me lorazepam which helped. I was mostly embarrassed because I couldn't stop, and was afraid the residents and nurses were thinking I'm crazy! It felt similar to a mood swing I once had will on the pill. Hang in there! This was a major surgery for your body!!

[QuilterGal 216]

I spoke to the bariatric nurse and she said most people underestimate the emotional changes that accompany surgery. She said what I was feeling was normal. I decided to start getting out more to see friends and get outside in the sunlight. That helped a lot. I think part of this was that I was stuck at home alone. I haven't had a panic attack in a week. I think I'm through it.