Countessjessless

Thanks for the replies and suggestions. I did try working out, as Veronica suggested, which helped for about an hour after I stopped. I will see if being consistent helps in the long term. Because of blood pressure issues, I can't take birth control; I've tried several, all of which aggravated my HBP. I haven't heard of Tramadol, but I will have to ask my doc at my next visit. I also thought about using my leftover pain meds from surgery, but they make me so sleepy and I need to be able to drive. I have always had pretty tough periods, but it seems like since surgery, they are unbearable for two solid days. I will just have to deal with them too and maybe look for some homeopathic remedies. Thanks again for your imput.

Hi ladies, l needed some suggestions on what to do about fairly severe menstrual cramps and back pain. Before I was sleeved, I would take Aleve or some form of Ibuprofen for some relief. Post-op, these are a no-no per my surgeon's orders. I've always had a hard time managing pain during that time of the month, but at least was able to dull it somewhat. My surgeon's office suggested Tylenol, but unless I take twice the recommended dose it has no affect at all. I also feel like the pain has worsened since being sleeved almost 9 weeks ago. Have any of you other sleeved ladies had to deal with this? If so, how did you manage it?

I'm 6 weeks out, and up until 4 weeks ago, I could have written most of the posts in this thread! I had the same kind of thoughts especially while in the liquid phases of post-op. I even had the, "what have I done?" moments. I cried a few times as my family enjoyed all the things I could no longer eat. Then, I cried because I felt so ridiculous about crying about not being able to eat. Participating in the forums really helped get me through it. Now that I'm a few weeks further along, things are much more bearable. I have quite a few more choices, and have become more accustomed to my new sleeve. It's still a little tricky, but not as challenging as those first few weeks. It does get better and from what I've read, it continues to do so. Hang in there, and I'll do the same.

Thank you all for your feedback. I really did need to vent. Thanks, Kempermorris for suggesting the Premier shakes. I actually have tried them (both chocolate and vanilla) and they are so far the only protein shakes I can handle. Coffee is a no-no on my doc's plan due to its interference with nutrient absorption, as Kempermorris mentioned. I was also told decaf was an irritant as well. Too acid for the newly-sleeved, if I'm recalling correctly. I also had a hiatal hernia repair, so that might be why my surgeon is being a bit more strict with what I should and should not have. I think I will give it another month or two, just to be on the safe side. At any rate, today is a much better day. Thanks again. It is a nice to have the support of others who are or have been in the same boat.

I am so frustrated! I'm four & half weeks out and have felt pretty miserable for as many weeks. I developed reflux and had to tame that. I am still pretty nauseous all the time. I have had bronchitis since having the surgery. Coughing is the most miserable thing right after surgery—and I've been doing it for 4 weeks! I finally saw my PCP and got a round of antibiotics (liquid-yuck!) but not sure they actually worked as the cough and yuckiness that comes up with it are still there. The liquid and puréed phases were truly difficult especially since the smell of whey protein powders made me sick. Nevertheless, I've still been able to get in most of my proteins on most days. Now, I've started some soft solids, but I think I really miss just normal food. And coffee. Oh, how I miss coffee! My frustration is compounded by the fact that I haven't lost any weight in two weeks. I am aware of the dreaded "3 week stall," but part of me feels like I have stopped losing weight and feeling like this whole thing was a big mistake. Sorry this was such a negative rant, but I'm just feeling a little blue about it all (and honestly, that's not like me at all). I guess I just need a little encouragement from folks who've been there and gone on to brighter days.

April 7 here.

Hi There, I feel your pain (literally)! I am just over 2weeks out, and last week I felt very much the way you do now. I did ask my surgeon about the heartburn and discomfort and he suggested Prilosec. You might want to ask your doctor if this might work for you. From what I've been told and read, this all gets much easier very soon. Hang in there, and I'll do the same.