After surgery

[greenfingers]

I am having a terrible time with bloating/wind and 4-5 bowel movements a day after having general anaesthetic for foot surgery a week ago. Does having an anaesthetic affect the thyroid?

I was vomiting 48 hours after surgery but think it could have been the Codeine painkillers which were maybe too strong, not sure if this had any bearing on it. I am just taking Paracetamol now but not taking regularly as not needed now.

I have an under active thyroid which I have had for many years.

[Clutter]

Greenfingers,

I really don't know whether GA affects thyroid levels. It wouldn't surprise me but if it does it should be temporary and you should feel better once the GA has cleared your system which may take up to 2 weeks. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the GA from your system. I hope you feel better soon.

[greenfingers in reply to Clutter]

Thanks Clutter, I will drink plenty hope it soon clears.

[phoenix23002]

I don't know the protocol in the UK but here in the states, it seems that it is almost routine for docs to put their patients on a round of antibiotics after any surgery done in a hospital setting. If that was/is true for your situation maybe take some probiotics that will repopulate the gut? I like PB 8 brand... affordable, not super strong but effective. Take 2 - 4 per day. Also Nutricology's Saccharomyces boulardii. Just one per day does it for me.

lf you prefer the 'natural' route... any yogurt or buttermilk with live cultures can often turn things around.

[greenfingers in reply to phoenix23002]

No it isn’t routine in the UK as people are becoming resistant to antibiotics. I am allergic to so many so maybe as well for me. Will take up your suggestions and see how I go. Thanks for replying.

[Marz]

As an aside - if the anaethsetic contained Nitrous Oxide - it can deplete Vit B12 .... not good.

EDIT - have just read a previous post your B12 was low. Maybe increase your supplements 😊

[greenfingers in reply to Marz]

Yes good idea, thanks

[MariLiz]

You may have low B12 as a result of your anaesthetic. It often occurs alongside thyroid problems, and certain anaesthetics can trigger a depletion. This could be causing your digestive problems.