The removal of part or all of the stomach is called a gastrectomy.
A gastrectomy is done for various reasons, including to treatstomach cancer,peptic ulcers, or for obesity.
With the help of healthcare professionals, the benefits of having gastrectomy surgery can be preserved.
Theresa Chiechi / Verywell
Possible Future Complications
There are some potential complications that might occur after gastrectomy surgery.
However, it often goes undiagnosed for some time, and therefore untreated.
There are several measures that are used to treat dumping syndrome.
Most of them include making changes to the diet.
Some potential treatments include:
Anemia
Deficiencies in vitamin B12 and iron may lead to anemia.
Anemia is a lack of healthy red blood cells.
The symptoms of anemia can include feeling tired, trouble concentrating, and feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
Supplementing the needed vitamins and minerals might be needed if anemia becomes a problem.
Bone Loss
Related to vitamin deficiencies, bone loss is common after gastrectomy to treat cancer.
After having a gastrectomy, some people may experience a vitamin D deficiency.
Increasing vitamin D and calcium through diet and potentially through supplementation may be important in preventing bone loss.
Regular vitamin level testing might be recommended by the healthcare team.
When it’s known that there is a lack of certain vitamins, supplementation might be recommended.
The stomach is where some digestion takes place and certain vitamins and minerals are absorbed.
Many people lose a significant amount of weight after having gastrectomy surgery to treat cancer.
Have quality food available.
Eat small, frequent meals.
After gastrectomy surgery, many people will feel full after even a small meal.
Keeping track of foods and meals with an app or even in a written journal can help.
This is also helpful when meeting with the healthcare team.
Over time, that list can be expanded and more foods can be added back into the diet.
A Word From Verywell
Many people go back to eating a varied diet after gastrectomy surgery.
However, some problems may be preventable through careful tracking of nutrients in the diet.
Others might be prevented through supplementation that is done under the supervision of a physician and/or a dietitian.
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