Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 1/27/2009

Question
Dear Dr Jackson, I underwent a cervical fusion in Dec 2008. I am 56 years old a non smoker and am not overweight. I am extremely tired all the time and have very little energy. I had the very same op 10 years ago and had the same aneasthetist and never had the tiredness. Do you think this is due to the aneasthetic?

Answer
Hi there
It is not unusual to feel tired after a major operation. This can be due to the bodies reaction to the operation but I also think that sometimes it can be due to 'after effects' from the anaesthesia. Some people find problems concentrating after anaesthesia and these issues do increase with age.
Sorry but there is little evidence of anything that helps though I always advocate taking exercise each day and attempting to gradually increase this over time.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson