Post surgical and no energy

Cooked · #1 (**permalink**) 04-25-2009, 07:09 PM

I had a hysterectomy 9 weeks ago and I am still having some pain and I am still quite lathargic. I know that the weather isn't helping, but is there something I can do to help me perk up? I don't even post like I used to. I just don't have the energy.

cau · #2 (**permalink**) 04-27-2009, 02:03 PM

Do you do any therapy? Exercise does help, start small but be consistant. Also give yourself a break your hormones are going nuts. Did you talk to the doctor to be sure everything is ok

Cooked · #3 (**permalink**) 04-27-2009, 04:13 PM

Yes, I did go see the dr. and she said everything is fine. I am walking some every day. Do you honestly think it could be hormonal? I just can't shake the blues and lack of enthusiasm. Thanks for listening cau, I appreciate the ear.

RobertaD · #4 (**permalink**) 04-28-2009, 02:40 AM

I've heard that a lot of women get depressed after a hysterectomy because they can no longer have more babies, even if they didn't plan on having more.

You might try sitting out in the sun for 15-30 min a day to get some light therapy.

Roberta

**Joy** · #5 (**permalink**) 04-28-2009, 06:10 AM

Cooked-- I think a lack of energy is probably pretty normal after surgery. Sounds like you might have a bit of depression which can happen after surgery also. Depression can definitely affect your energy. I would consult your Dr again and if there is no physical reason for your lack of energy ask if you might be depressed.
I like Roberta's idea of getting some sunshine (if you are lucky enough to have sunny days). I always feel better on sunny days.

cau · #6 (**permalink**) 04-28-2009, 12:55 PM

yes I do think it could be hormonal, if that checkes out ok try seeing about depression. The changes your body is going through could cause depression
Hang in there , we are here and listening

Cooked · #7 (**permalink**) 04-28-2009, 02:57 PM

Thank you everybody. I am waiting for sunny days! I too feel better on sunny days. I will call my Dr. if it progresses.
I really do not mind that I cannot have any more children, I have had mine and have been parenting for 24 seemingly very long years. I still have 7 more years till 18. I do feel different in some ways, and am just starting to notice.
Thanks for listening yet again.

humptydumpty · #8 (**permalink**) 04-29-2009, 08:48 AM

I didn't have hysterectomy, I had back surgery and I can tell you I was very weak, tired, lethargic for quite some time too.
I think pain meds, anestethia, and trauma to your body plays a lot into it. I am positive your hormones are trying to get back to normal also and that could play into it.
I wish you good luck. I am three weeks out and feeling better everyday.

**Sammi1961** · #9 (**permalink**) 05-01-2009, 05:43 AM

I have not had a hysterectomy but have friends who have and know it does take quite a long time to feel back to normal. Your hormones will definitely be fluctuating and changing and that can cause depression. As Roberta mentioned, sitting in the sun can help as can taking walks outside which you said you are doing. If things don't improve, talk to your doctor about maybe taking an antidepressant for a short time which can help get you through this difficult time. I have heard depression and lack of energy is very common but does get better with time.

**seleach** · #10 (**permalink**) 05-01-2009, 05:51 AM

I did have a hysterectomy but the ovaries were not removed. This does make a difference. If the ovaries were removed, your hormones are on a wild ride. And you may need meds.
It takes time to get your energy back. It does help to get outside and take a walk every day. Try to go a little further each day. You should be well healed by now so do a small household chore each day also.
Exercise will make you stronger and feel better.