Personality and other changes after gastric bypass surgery?
My husband had gastric bypass surgery (RNY), approximately three years ago. He lost right around 100 lbs and has kept it off, so no issue there. He's had crazy issues with blood sugar - according to the endocrinologist he has too much insulin circulating so it can cause these crazy crashes where his blood sugar dips very low. If he eats regularly and maintains his protein he is fine.
Until Jan 1 of this year, he had become what I would definitely call a functioning alcoholic. Although not functional at all while he was drinking. He would get completely blottoed at minimum 3-4 times a week. Oddly enough, never really a hangover or anything. But he would slur, stumble around and just generally look like a skid row drunk. He finally realized he had a problem and quit on Jan 1. We'll see if it lasts...but that's not the reason for my message.
I just read an article this week about the real emotional issues that cause weight gain to begin with (although let me say I do not believe everyone eats out of emotional issues - but I do think it's true in his case). Then when food can no longer be used to medicate as it did before, the person moves to something else, oftentimes alcohol, as in my husband's case.
Even generally speaking, I think his personality has changed. He is much more irritable and can be irrational sometimes too. Has anyone experienced this with loved ones or even in yourself? He's a different man.I would be thrilled to hear any other opinions here. There are days I feel like I'm going crazy or imagining things, especially if I listen to him.
Thanks for any input!
The following 2 users give hugs of support to: ShoeLovr karensk (01-27-2013), writeleft (01-27-2013)
Re: Personality and other changes after gastric bypass surgery?
I knew we were in for trouble after my husband's laparoscopic Roux-en-Y bypass. You see, he had been a binge eater, and then he decided *bam* to have the surgery, never tried any other diet, nothing. He was determined that being obese was the root of all his problems, and that being thin would solve everything.
Needless to say, his personality did change and he got so nasty and self-absorbed after the surgery, and also started drinking in a problematic fashion (had never really done this prior). He also went crazy spending, wanting all new clothes, even while our bills went unpaid.
I had enough of his behaviors and have filed for divorce. We were married 18 yrs. My feeling about many of the folks having this surgery is this: If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you. Not saying the surgery is a walk in the park by any means, but those who manage to lose a great deal on their own will be powerfully transformed in a good way, both physically and mentally. Many who have the surgery are like my husband, literally seeking the 'easy way out' and the results can be disastrous.
Google "addiction transfer" after gastric bypass and you will get tons more info.
Re: Personality and other changes after gastric bypass surgery?
You two are not alone. Without proper counseling or emotional support before and after surgery, there are many pitfalls to the surgery itself becoming a catalyst for the onset of such issues, as you both describe.
I have a friend who is facing the early stages of other negative effects of bypass surgery her husband is having, and I really feel for all of you. I wish each of you the best while trying to cope with this huge elephant in the room. Please protect yourself from the out lash this can have on a family and relationships. I would suggest counseling if it not to late, as the potential for positive outcomes are determined on the adjustment period being clearly understood and rules in place to avoid this transfer of addictions.
Re: Personality and other changes after gastric bypass surgery?
Karen and Janet, thank you for your replies. I can see I'm not alone in this. I'm actually in counseling right now to see if there is some way I can learn to cope with all of this. I now believe that people that are thinking of undergoing any type of weight loss surgery should be thoroughly screened by a psychiatrist. It's become such a popular surgery,
My husband does not see the underlying issue with all of this. It's just a really difficult situation overall. I'll bet there are so many marriages that end over this.
