Whipple And "Real" Age

On 5/9/2008 AliveInOldeTown wrote:

 

On 5/8/2008 zanam wrote:

Has anyone else heard this?

We were told that a person that has the whipple surgery physically ages by 10 years.  So, a 50 yr. old would actually have the body/health of a 60 yr. old. After Whipple. 

I'm not sure how factual it is but I would guess after seeing what people go through I would definatly belive it.

No, I haven't heard that. None of the doctors or medical staff involved in my care before or since have said anything close to that.

I was 50 when I had the Whipple surgery.  The year prior to the surgery was very difficult, and I felt like I was wearing out piece by piece. So I guess that could be like feeling years older than your actual age.

After surgery, it took some time to recover. I'm 56 now, and I'm not quite sure how a 66 year old woman is supposed to feel.  I've known some 70 year olds that can run circles around some 35 year old women mentally and physically. Right now, I feel MUCH better than before surgery and I'm physically stronger in many ways. 

If Whipple/PC survivors can avoid the malabsorption issues that often come with the surgery, didn't have other health issues before surgery, have no long term complications from the surgery and can avoid remission, I can't imagine a blanket statement like that applies.  How do they establish the facts to support the statement?  Autopsy results?  Reduction in life expectancy? 

It is an interesting observation. I'm curious. Was it someone in the medical field who made it?

 

Hello

I saw your message and am hoping that you can give me some advice.  I was thrilled to see that you are a survivor of the Whipple/PC.  My father was diagnosed this week and they have scheduled the Whipple surgery for June 11th.  One of the problems he is having is what to eat.  Can you give me any advice on foods that you were able to eat prior to the surgery that didn't make sure sick and feel pain?  Also, how was the recovery process.  I have heard that it can take up to eight weeks to recover.  Do you recommend home health care during the first few weeks?  Thank you so much for any advice you can give me. 

 

M Murphy/ Alabama