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Hunger (Starving) Pains 6-8wks Post Op



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Hi All-

I have been trying to read some of the Post Op hunger topics but most discuss hunger right after surgery. I am having STARVING pains 6 weeks Post op. I did not have this much hunger BEFORE I had surgery. Has anyone else had this experience?

I am a career dieter with thyroid issues. I have previously been on a lot of different diets.... even 500 calorie HCG for 4 yrs. I have never been an over eater but more-so an under eater. Some times that is a larger issue for me. Reason for saying this is I already know the difference between head hunger & stomach hunger. I have become very skilled in 'turning off' or ignoring my hunger to get through most diets but this time its not working.

I am also on a 4 week stall. My weight has not changed in 4 wks. I called the Dr. and they told me to eat more / then to eat less/ do shakes only / add healthy fats - REALLY!!?? I also told them about the hunger pains. They are the worst in the morning through mid-day. They told me it was head hunger. Again - REALLY!!?? I wake up feeling like I haven't eaten in days. Definitely not head hunger!

I am not sure if the two issues are related but trying to eat MORE, has still not stopped the hunger pains. I get them to the point of feeling sick. I thought perhaps it was acid so I started staking an extra PPI and it has only helped slightly.

I am eating the correct foods & amounts plus shakes & Water. I am convinced something else is amiss but the Doctor & Nutritionist has not been of any help.

If anyone had had a similar experience, I'd be grateful for any info share on how to move past it and/how to break a 4 wk stall.

For those who reading this, keep up the good work & I wish you much success in your journey!

Laurie P.

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My surgeon advises that excess acid production feels a LOT like hunger. Are you ona PPI (zantac, Prilosec, Nexium?) Do you mean that you feel EMPTY, LIGHTHEADED, WEAK or are you talking about a burning or painful sensation in the stomach?

If it is the latter, I would consult your doc's office again and don't get out of their faces until they agree to take a look. Maybe it is an ulcer, maybe it is excess acid, maybe it is something else. This isn't normal for 6-8 weeks out and they need to do something besides pat you on the head and send you on your way.

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      On day 4 of the 2 week liquid pre-op diet. Surgery scheduled for June 11th.
      Soooo I am coming to a realization
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