Dumping Syndrome

Following a gastric bypass operation it is possible to get something called Dumping Syndrome.

It basically happens in procedures that bypass most of the stomach so the food in the stomach  actually empties  too quickly into the intestines – basically food is “Dumped” into the small intestines. It can affect the majority of patients usually in the first 15 – 18 months after surgery and generally as time goes on becomes less frequent

There are 2 types of dumping :

Early: as the name suggests happens sooner after eating – around 30 mins. This is caused by food being dumped into small intestines too soon.  Fluid moves form the bloodstream into the intestines to dilute the concentrated food causing the intestines to become more bloated and full. Symptoms can vary and you may not have all of the symptoms but they can include – diarrhoea, racing heart and palpitations, sweating, bloating, nausea, dizziness, hot face…… The diarrhoea can often happen 30/ 60 minutes later

Late: happens later at about 1-3 hours after a meal and usually happens more after high carbohydrate foods especially sugary ones. Insulin is produced in response to the high blood sugar levels caused. This will reduce the sugar levels down to normal but sometimes they can drop too low causing late dumping. Symptoms include – sweating, hunger, fainting, heart racing and palpitations, tremors, confusion and even aggression

Treating Dumping:

• Eat healthily
• Limit sugary foods
• Eat slowly and regularly
• Try 5 or 6 smalls meals daily rather than 3 larger ones
• Avoid drinking whilst eating – this can flush the food through too quickly so increases the risk of dumping
• Choosing lower glycaemic index foods – these are ones which are absorbed more slowly into the bloodstream

If you are experiencing dumping it is best to rest – have a lie down and wait for the symptoms to pass