2 days post op doc says need a transfusion.

[OldMomOf3 52]

Any thoughts on why? Doc did not say. Rrrrr!

My vitals are all normal.

[ProjectMe 909]

You need to ask your Dr...or the next person(s) entering your room, until you get an answer. This is your health and is no time to be shy about it. Ask.

[OldMomOf3 52]

I spoke to dr and he said they don't know yet but risk of low blood levels is much higher than risks of transfusion. After transfusion if still dropping they will look into it more. I'm not super satisfied but what can I do really?

[ProjectMe 909]

See belows edited response

Edited March 15, 2015 by ProjectMe

[ProjectMe 909]

Ask the Dr. Exactly what he means by low blood levels and keep asking until you feel better. Do you currently have low blood levels or is he just being cautious. If he's just being cautious...I probably would tell him No to the transfusion.

One of my 14 surgeries, my hysterectomy, resulted in my having a transfusion. There were some complications and I was under 3 hours longer than originally planned. So yes, I lost a lot of blood & needed a transfusion. It's something that they will do while you are under and you have no say in it because you already signed the release prior to having surgery.

Edited March 15, 2015 by ProjectMe

[ProjectMe 909]

^

Edited March 15, 2015 by ProjectMe

[JamieLogical 8,708]

Is there a reason you don't want a transfusion? I had one after one of my previous surgeries and it was THE BEST! I went from feeling like death warmed over to feeling fantastic!

Edited March 15, 2015 by JamieLogical

[Dr-Patient 830]

Did he tell you your "H/H" values--hemoglobin and hematocrit levels? If not, ask for them. That and your "platelets."

Then ask what's normal (so you can see how far off from the norm you are). Why a transfusion?

Are you dizzy, bleeding internally? fainting? Bleeding a lot through the drain? Are you in the hospital?

As a patient, YOU have to insist on knowing WHY; unfortunately many of today's docs--especially the younger folks--don't expound. Speak up. Ask for specifics and WHY, with documentation of your H/H.

[samuelsmom 670]

Blood transfusions following bariatric surgery are uncommon. This is not a surgery where there is typically a lot of blood loss. I agree with all of the suggestions listed above. There is a good article on MedicineNet about the risks of same at http://www.medicinenet.com/blood_transfusion/page6.htm#what_are_the_risks_and_complications_of_a_blood_transfusion.

[OldMomOf3 52]

H/h levels. 7 hemoglobin 20 hematacr

Bp normal

Ox sat 97-100

Heart rate 97-102

Temp noemal

I feel like I expect to feel, post surgery. Tired and sore but normal. No fainting or shakes or loss of color.

My phone will only get limited internet so your input is about all I have for info. I can only access my aps which is what I'd have for bariatric pal. So extra thanks to all who have given input.

Edited March 15, 2015 by OldMomOf3

[Beachlovinloser 8]

Thinking of you and wanting to check in. Hope you are well.