Shortness of breath

[BAC63]

why do i have shortness of breath and tiredness 10 weeks after arthoscopic shoulder surgery

[caregiver222]

You need to consult your physician to rule out endocarditis. A blood infection developing post-surgury can cause cardiac insufficiency. A white blood cell count is the first step as well as a two-part dopplar to determine if there is bacteria on the heart. This scenario is unlikely, but ocasionally happens following surgical intervention.

[Ricobord]

Here's my story.  I began to suffer from unexplained fatigue, and then six months later, chronic shortness of breath, both following significant stress. Six months later, after being treated with steroids for my supposed asthma, I went downhill fast, developing lots of frightening neurological, cardiac, and GI symptoms.  After 12 doctors, 2 ER visits, and a hospital stay for severe abdominal pain, I was convinced I had late stage Lyme Disease.  I had to go to an LLMD (Lyme Literate Medical Doctor) to get diagnosed and treated properly.  I have Neuroborelliosis and bartonella.  I may also have babesiosis (from the Babesia parasite), but we're not sure yet.  Either Lyme or Babesia could be causing my shortness of breath and air hunger, but I have tested negative for Babesia 3 times.  I am finally on antibiotics and making significant improvements.

My doctor says that some people seem to have latent tick borne diseases that the immune symtem holds in check, until something stressful comes along, like surgery or a major life event.  Just based on my admittedly unusual experience, I would recommend that you avoid any kind of steroids until you have eliminated Lyme or Babesia as possibilities.  Just because it's "unlikely", doesn't mean you weren't exposed some time in the past.

Good luck!

[mklarson]

Depends on how extensive the surgery was (rotator cuff, Distal clavicle resection, etc.) you should figure on feeling tired for three months.  As far as the shortness of breath (which will make you tired) there are a couple of thoughts. First, did you receive a shoulder nerve block while in pre-op? This is an injection usually given about 15-30 minutes before the surgery starts and is given at the base of the neck. If you did receive this let me know because it can play into my answer. Next, how long was your surgery? the longer it was, the greater the chances for residual side effects including shortness of breath(not permanent but can last for a few months).  Also, do you suffer from asthma or allergies? these conditions can slow the post operation recovery time with complaints that match yours.  Typically, when patients have this problem post-op they are usually prescribed a prednisone burst or a two month treatment with dual acting asthma inhalers.      

Let me know if you have any further questions.