Navigating Post-Surgery Eating Challenges After Pancreatic Tumor Resection
A 38-year-old male, weighing 110 lbs and standing 5'9", is experiencing significant difficulties with his appetite following pancreatic surgery for the removal of a neuroendocrine tumor. The surgery took place two weeks ago, and the patient reports symptoms localized around the abdomen, possibly affecting the pancreas or stomach. He has a medical background that includes chronic constipation, which is impacting his recovery process. During the span of two weeks since the operation, the patient has been grappling with a severely diminished desire to eat, resulting in noticeable weight loss. Initially, he was unable to consume any food for 4.5 days post-surgery, and even upon attempting to eat afterward, he could only take 2 to 4 bites of bland items like soup or plain potatoes before feeling overly full and experiencing pain. He had also experienced a bowel ileus, which caused discomfort for a period; fortunately, its resolution alleviated much of the pain, yet challenges with eating persist. Currently, he is managing to consume two bottles of Ensure Complete daily, providing 60 grams of protein, which is positive, but only reaching a total of 700 calories. Despite this, he struggles to eat anything additional. His lack of appetite is constant, requiring him to deliberately try to eat when he feels less uncomfortable, often resorting to the Ensure. The surgical oncology team is informed of his condition, and he has consulted with his primary care physician as well. However, growing concerns arise as his food intake continues to decrease. For instance, he used to combine the two Ensure bottles with some sips of soup, yet he has solely relied on the Ensure for the last three days.<br> He acknowledges that appetite loss is commonplace following significant abdominal surgeries, but he seeks insight on how long it may take for this condition to improve. Additionally, he has observed that the area around the right side of his surgical staples feels hard and tender, contrasting with the left side, which is softer. When he drinks the Ensure, it creates a sensation of pressure in the tender area; he wonders if this could be impacting his stomach in some way.
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 12:40:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're feeling concerned about your appetite and overall recovery after your pancreatic surgery. You're experiencing several challenges, including decreased desire to eat, weight loss, and discomfort around your surgical area. These issues are indeed common following major abdominal surgery, but it’s important to address them proactively to support your healing process.
Key Points:
- Appetite loss and discomfort can be temporary but should gradually improve.
- Manage symptoms of fullness and pain effectively.
- Explore ways to increase nutritional intake, even small amounts.
Explanation
After a significant surgery like yours, it’s normal to experience changes in appetite and digestive function. The tenderness and hardness you feel near your surgical site could be due to swelling, healing tissue, or scar formation, all of which are part of the recovery process. It’s great that you're consuming Ensure to maintain some nutrition, but the goal is to increase your overall calorie and protein intake to aid recovery.
Next Steps
-
Nutritional Intake:
- Continue with the Ensure, as it's a good source of calories and protein. Aim to consume small amounts frequently instead of three larger meals.
- Try incorporating other soft foods that are easy to digest, such as mashed bananas, yogurt, or smoothies; these can provide essential nutrients without overwhelming your stomach.
- If nausea or fullness persists, take breaks between sips and small bites—allowing time for your stomach to adjust.
-
Addressing Discomfort:
- Avoid large amounts of food at once, focus on smaller meals spread throughout the day.
- If the feeling of pressure worsens or becomes significantly uncomfortable, consider discussing this again with your healthcare provider, especially if new symptoms emerge.
-
Tracking Symptoms:
- Keep a food and symptom diary to help identify patterns, including what foods seem easier or harder to tolerate.
- Note any changes in tenderness or hardness around your surgical site and share this information with your medical team at your next appointment.
-
Managing Constipation:
- Stay hydrated and consider gentle stool softeners (like psyllium or docusate), especially since you have a history of constipation. Discuss this option with your doctor to find the best fit for your situation.
-
Gentle Movement:
- Engage in light walking as tolerated, which can help stimulate digestion and improve appetite.
Final Thoughts
Time is a significant factor in healing post-surgery, and it may take several weeks for your appetite and digestion to normalize. Be patient with yourself during this recovery period. If you find you're unable to increase your intake or if other concerning symptoms arise, such as severe pain or changes around your surgical site, don't hesitate to seek further medical advice. You're doing important work in caring for yourself, and these steps can support your recovery journey.
Related Questions
Seeking Answers for Ongoing Abdominal Discomfort in My Daughter
My 5-year-old daughter has been intermittently suffering from abdominal pain for almost four months now, particularly around her belly button area. It’s been a challenging journey, and I’m reaching out for insight from anyone else who might have faced similar issues and could share their experiences. Since November, she has frequently complained about her stomach, with pain flaring up intermittently. We’ve visited the emergency room two times, where doctors ruled out appendicitis. We've also checked for urinary tract infections, and a recent blood test came back normal—showing no signs of infection. An ultrasound conducted recently revealed no abnormalities, and her bowel movements appear to be regular, so constipation doesn't seem to be a factor. Currently, we are exploring dietary adjustments, such as eliminating lactose and gluten. We’re diligently keeping a food diary to monitor what she consumes alongside any instances of pain or changes in her bowel habits. Just yesterday, we started the gluten-free trial, so I’m unsure how long it will be before we see results. As I navigate this situation, I am growing increasingly concerned. I wonder if I should be more assertive with her general practitioner about further testing or whether switching to another doctor might be beneficial. For context, my daughter is 5 years old, has not been prescribed any medications, and is generally healthy, weighing 16 kilograms and standing about 100 centimeters tall. If anyone has dealt with similar abdominal issues in children and can offer advice or suggestions, it would be greatly appreciated!
Could My Childhood Surgery Be Linked to My Current Digestive Issues?
I underwent surgery on my abdomen at birth, and again at the age of three. Now that I'm 36, I’m curious if the scar tissue from those procedures might be contributing to my recurring constipation and occasional discomfort after meals. I've recently started experiencing these tummy aches, which are a new development for me, though I've dealt with constipation and bloating for quite a while. While I plan on consulting my doctor for a thorough evaluation, I'm just seeking some initial thoughts on this matter!
Ongoing Abdominal Discomfort and Reduced Appetite
For the past several days, specifically since February 8, 2026, I (20-year-old female) have been dealing with a persistent dull ache in my abdomen. Alongside this discomfort, I have noticed a significant reduction in my appetite, which only tends to return in the late afternoon when I experience specific cravings. So far, my cravings have predominantly revolved around carbohydrate-rich foods, including potatoes, cheese, beans, bread, and rice. I have a history of diagnosed Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Bipolar Depression for which I've been prescribed medication. Currently, my regimen includes 75mg of Wellbutrin and 150mg of Sertraline each day. I've remained on various dosages of these medications since I was 14 years old. Additionally, I am on the Autism Spectrum. I do not consume alcohol or smoke, nor am I pregnant or experiencing my menstrual cycle at this time.
Concerns About A1C Levels and Weight Management
Hello, I'm a 34-year-old female currently treated with Prozac and Nortriptyline, as well as tranexamic acid for severe menstrual bleeding. Weight loss has been a constant struggle for me throughout my life. Despite my efforts with dieting and maintaining a rigorous exercise routine under the supervision of various healthcare professionals, I have seen little success. At age 19, one doctor prescribed thyroid medication and cautioned me about the possibility of becoming pre-diabetic. Despite adhering to this treatment, I was unable to shed any pounds. Later, at 27, I received a diagnosis of estrogen-dominant PCOS, and yet again, I was informed that weight loss was critical. Following this advice, I maintained strict dietary practices and exercised diligently, but my efforts yielded no results. Fast forward to last year, when my A1C was measured at 5.2. Once more, a doctor warned me about the risk of pre-diabetes without providing further recommendations or strategies. Taking matters into my own hands, I began to minimize sugar intake, increased my physical activity, and reduced my calorie consumption. My job involves working long shifts in a restaurant for up to eleven hours, where I average between 10,000 to 14,000 steps each workday, often working five to seven days a week. Recently, I have been facing ongoing bleeding issues, including a notably prolonged period that lasted 10.5 months, marked by significant clotting—one instance even caused the displacement of my Mirena IUD. To address this, I have undergone two IV infusions and regularly take iron supplements. Last week, I discovered that I've lost 20 pounds. However, upon retesting my A1C on Monday, I found it had risen to 5.3. How can this be, given all the healthy changes I've implemented? What further steps can I take to manage this situation effectively?
Understanding Left-Sided Sinus Pain: A Confusing Journey Through Diagnosis and Treatment
After enduring agonizing discomfort for several months, I finally underwent a CT scan of my sinuses. The findings were revealing: - "Significant chronic left anterior compartment paranasal sinus disease" - "Left nasal polyp of approximately 1.4 cm" - "Complete opacification of the left osteomeatal unit" - "Partial opacification of the left maxillary sinus" - "Rough calcification located in the left maxillary antrum" - "Possibility of an inverted papilloma should also be considered" Two months ago, I visited an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for the first time. He prescribed antibiotics and indicated that surgery might be necessary, utilizing a rigid nasal scope for examination. About six weeks ago, I returned for a follow-up appointment where he diagnosed me with Allergic Rhinitis and gave me Azalestine, discussing the potential for allergy tests. Today, I went in for another check-up, explaining that I had been ill for six weeks, plagued by persistent sinus pain and pressure. I described an incident from the previous night when I expelled a large, round mucus plug after weeks of experiencing an unpleasant sewage-like odor; it felt as if something solid was lodged in my sinuses. The new diagnosis was dry nasal cavities, specifically affecting my left side. He advised me to perform sinus rinses twice daily, use saline sprays, keep a humidifier on hand, and he also prescribed a petroleum-based ointment to maintain moisture in my nasal passages. The plan moving forward includes a follow-up in two months, with the expectation that it may take at least that long to see improvement. However, I am left with lingering uncertainty: After I mentioned allergy testing, my husband inquired again about it, and the doctor seemed amenable but less enthusiastic than before. Additionally, he questioned when I last had a CT scan, and upon my answer of November, I was surprised he didn’t seem familiar with my previous results. This gives me the impression that he might not have thoroughly reviewed them initially. I feel as though I am being tossed around in a frustrating cycle of appointments without a clear resolution. Should I seek another opinion? I have already invested about $1400 into consultations, yet I find it difficult to grasp what exactly is happening with my health. My episodes last anywhere from six to ten weeks, interspersed with short breaks of four to ten days. I have also included images of my CT scan and the mucus plug in the comments for those interested.