Hey all. Just wondering about hunger. I didn't think I would feel hungry for awhile post op. I am 4 days post op and am getting hungry. Now it doesn't take but a couple of drinks of a Protein shake to fill me up, but I just didn't think I would be hungry.

Anyone else get hungry immediately post op?

Yeah, a little bit. Lot of head hunger--I swear I dreamed of biting into food all the time. It does ease up quite a bit so no worries but it also comes back. I do get hungry again but it doesn't take much to satisfy it, luckily.

I would be very surprised if this is actual hunger. There are two things that actually cause this feeling early on:

1. Dehydration. You are likely not getting enough liquids. Are at or near 48 to 64 ounces yet! I am guessing not as most of us do not come close this soon after surgery. Dehydration can actually cause the same symptoms of hunger. When you get that feeling, try sipping Water.

2. Head Hunger. This is not real yet it feels very real when you are struggling with it. By the way, this never really goes away you just learns tricks to get around it. Like distracting yourself. Go for a walk, read a book, listen to music. Whatever will get your mind off thinking about it.

When I get this feeling, I drink water. I keep drinking until that feeling goes away.

Your actual hunger should not come back until you are around 6 months post op. I am certain you are struggling with one of the above reasons. Give my suggestions a try and see if it helps.

I'm talking about actual stomach growling hunger. My husband even heard it.

I read somewhere, and I dont remember where, that your "growling stomach" isn't actually hunger but is actually your intestines digesting food.

And medical or nutritional people around to weigh in on that?