twinmomC

I hope you are off the bag soon! Seriously, if you are going to require repeat dilations, ask them to shoot it up with steroids. It wasn't until my 5th that mine stayed open more than a week. Good luck to you!!! Keep us posted.

I had RNY 9/15/15. Like you, I developed symptoms at about 3 weeks. My surgeon and facility is about 3 hours from my home. I didn't trust anyone locally to deal with my "new anatomy" (small, rural towns). I end up back in the big city for my one moth follow up after nearly a week of struggling to keep anything down. Being the "smart one" I am, I also NPO'd myself the night before my appointment to make sure they could scope me on the spot. Well... I DID get admitted for severe dehydration, but the procedure did not happen until the following day. IV fluids to the extreme. I didn't pee for a long time which had some nurses worried (again really dehydrated), but once I started- LOOK OUT!! EGD dilation #1 occured there, they let me eat the next morning and sent me home on a Friday. By Tuesday, with consent of my surgeon in "big city", I was re-admitted through a local ER and seeing a local GI. He also dilated me. 3 more times, at one weel intervals. After his 3rd (my 4th) he threw in the towel and said I needed to go back to my surgeon recommending revision. I returned to "big city" with complications once again and he had me worked on my an INTERVENTIONALIST GI. Apparently with the approval of my surgeon, she was able to be a little more aggressive with the stricture. This was #5. She was able to take my anastimosis to a 15mm. (When this all began- 3 weeks in- I was at 3mm, a pinhole!). She also shot it with steroids, but wanted me back in two weeks if symptoms persisted. Things improved greatly, this was about Nov 11th. I had a follow up on 12/21 with surgeon and was having some familiar pain, so they agreed to do it again on 12/21. Happily, I was at a 13 (only shrunk 2mm in over a month) and she took it to my max of 18mm again with steroid. This was 6 EGD dilations since Oct 15!!! I have very sensitive skin and tissues. I think my body's response is to swell when it is messed with. So the steroids seemed to keep that inflammation down. The next step was to have a stent stiched in there for a period of like 3 months... I'm very glad it's staying open on its own. Happy note. I am 55 lbs lighter than when this whole journey began. Long story short. Hang in there. Take care of yourself. If something doesn't feel right, see your doctor. The IV's for a month sound more severe than I had it, and trust me, I was miserable. I hope they have your stricture under control. Hope you are feeling lots better soon!!!

Sorry, TMI, but troubled, terrified actually. 20 days post RNY. Came out with flying colors, walking super-star, all in all felt/feel great until recently. Haven't been able to poo on my own (without Milk of Mag, suppository, smooth move tea) in 3 weeks. I've made it happen a total of three times. Down 17 lbs since surgery, not sure how that is possible, but anyway... I have a very sore bum and am seeing a local general surgeon tomorrow (my WLS surgeon is about 2.5 hours away) to take a look at it and see if he can help (super excited about this- NOT!) Thrombosed hemmer!! If you don't know, you don't want to. If you DO KNOW, it is one of the worst pains ever!! This "problem" hurts worse than the surgery itself So... How after WLS do we get things working again? I do NOT want to become laxative dependent, but cannot live like this either. What do you do to get the Fiber in?? Anything else anyone knows to prevent the painful, unpleasant, fire and shredded glass/razor pain, please share. I was hoping for improvement, not a complete halt. Suggestions??

Just saw this. Yes... I had problems prior and life-long as well. I won't tell you the horrors I have endured a few times in the last few weeks, but let's just say it hasn't been pretty. I have to watch the carbs and sugar (obviously), but last night did a half serving of prune juice before bed and had my FIRST(non assisted) movement today in 8 weeks. Yeee Haaa I have developed another complication in the upper GI that may require more surgery to fix. I am not looking forward to starting over at all. Thanks for the replies. It helps knowing that others are experiencing some of the same things.

I had RNY on 9-15-15. All was going well until it stopped going well. On 10-14, I was re-admitted at the hospital I had my surgery for dehydration and the next day had my first EGD with dilation. I was released to come home (3 hours away) the next day. My surgeon gave me the green light to see a local GI. On 10-20-15, I was re-admitted to local hospital same problem with dehydration and the stricture was closed to 2mm. Dilation #2 occured, then a week later #3 and today was #4. The local GI has not scheduled any more and says I need to return to surgeon for revision of the astimosis. Has this happened to anyone else?? Another surgery to fix the first one?? 1, 2, and 3 did not cause me any discomfort. Today after #4, I am quite sore on the inside and only hope I can make it 5 more days until my surgeon returns from his vacation. Any revision stories... Is there hope?? Thanks..

Thank you. I am hoping as well...

I was admitted again on Tuesday 10-20 for another dilation and dehydration as a result of the stricture. Scheduled for #3 next Monday. I hope that it gets open and stays open. My stricture was 3mm the first time and 2mm the 2nd. It seems angry. Two prescriptions for acid- Protonix and carafate... Hoping things calm down. If you get to the point you can't keep anything down, you MUST go to your doctor or ER. I have had Iv's twice in the last week, severely low potassium and low bp. Don't mess around, strictures are bad news, but treatable so they tell me. Hope you are doing better!!

I was going to ask about Vitamins as well. I am 1 month, 5 days out RNY. I've had a rough go boys and girls, I am not going to lie. I was on here asking for constipation advise, which I am still dealing with. Week before last, just before my 4 week mark I started to no tolerate things I had been, or so I thought. Then it was a tiny bite seemed to get lodged between my breasts and cause tight, sharp, pain.. Then slobber started. Then it came up. One meal, the next, skip one, the next, then the one sip of Protein shake and I was worried. My surgeon is 3 hours away I waited almost a week to see him at my post op. I was severely dehydrated at this point and admitted. Good thing being an inpatient got my EGD done a day earlier. My astimosis (sp?) was nearly closed- they called it a severe stricture. It was 3mm. They dilated it to 1cm. I was told that it may have to be repeated. Got home on Friday and as of today, Monday, I am starting to experience it again. I more than likely will have to have it stretched again. So here I sit with my new list of vitamins I need and don't have a clue what is best or most economical. Until that post op, all I took was a multi gummy. At the first post op (the day I got re-admitted) they told me to start B 50 complex, 600 calcium cit, 5000 dry A (mine was low going in I guess?) and 10000 dry D daily. I think given my stricture problem a chewable will be best. I have a B-complex I got at GNC. The dietician told me the gummies were fine, but I compared and they don't come close to some of the others. So... What are the best tasting, quality, economical choices out there. Celebrate, Bariatric Advantage, unjury, Brand X.. Amazon? Walmart? Do the caramel chews taste good? Money is kinda tight right now so I want to be choosing the right ones. Thanks in advance.

I regretted surgery for about 4 months, I had a stricture that's cause me vomiting, pain, etc etc. I'm not 7 months and super happy! Just hung in there, give little more time. I know it's hard but that's all you can do now. Call your doctor if you worry something it's wrong. It's not an easy journey but it's worth it! I am just now 1 month and 5 days out. I've dealt with constipation (not really, still have it) and at close to one month started getting food stuck, salivating like mad and vomiting. After about a week of this nonsense, I got re- admittied (three hours from home) for IV fluids and astimosis dilation. I had a severe 3mm stricture that was dilated to 10mm on 10-15. He said there is a possibility that it will have to be repeated and I believe him. Not something to mess around with. I was sent home on Friday and today, Monday I felt that same tight, stuck pain right after trying to eat. Thinking it might be time for stretch out #2. I'd say discomfort and vomiting on the same food you were able to tolerate a week or two prior is cause for concern. Also.. when or if liquid causes pain and also shoot back out- GO TO THE DOCTOR. Now I know.. Hope this helps someone else.

Yea... We go round and round. This is NOT a pleasant place to work and his job is very stressful (and dangerous) to say the least. I'm probably not going to get hired, but still it's worth trying. It would be in an entirely different area- more clerical in nature. GET A JOB- just not at my place of employment that actually pays well just doesn't sit well with me. I seriously think he looks for stuff to come home and be a big jerk about. If it isn't obvious in the first 10 minutes, he'll find something to bitch about. I am not innocent mind you, but really since surgery 3 weeks ago, i have really cooled my jets and am trying to be the best me I can be to the kids and him. His attitude about my surgery changes from day to day. One day he's supportive, the next he's being an ass!! Thanks for listening.

Ahaa... I see. What a funny looking contraption. Not a conversation I want to have with company. What we won't do in a time of need. Thanks beachgal!

I actually have an RX for Mirilax and it's cheaper I think. I took it "as need" pre-op for years. This is waaaay different as you have mentioned. I was JUST given the green light by my surgeon as we is now aware of my strain and pain. My youngest has a little footstool. Do you suppose it would work the same as the squatty potty? I have seen conversation about them. Isn't it just a little footstool? Thanks )

Just reading this. I can relate. I'm 22 days out. I've been a stay at home mom for 13 years. I've worked some on the side to contribute and went part-time, but completed my Associate Degree in May. I've been "looking" for employment, but prior to the surgery is was iffy- "I really want this job, but I need X amount of time off because I am having surgery, OK?". Now I'm feeling somewhat better, but finding and staying in work clothes that fit will prove quite a challenge at this point. In fact, I wore a suit to an interview recently and could barely keep my britches up. Anyway... back to husband. I went to bed at 8 tonight because I was just so sad and upset. Money is tight. I go to grocery store and buy he and the kids as much as I can and pick up a couple things that I think I can eat.... turkey snack sticks. He's immediately all over me about my "special snacks" and whatever else. Never have I said no-one else can eat them, except I've asked them to leave the SF stuff alone for me- obviously. I come across a job in postings tonight that is in a round about way related to my husband's and he says- "you'll never get it, they just post that as a formality". I say sure, probably right, but maybe I should take the tests and whatever and get on a list anyway as it's a good paying job and if not this time, maybe something else will come up. He says, "I don't want to work with you." I wouldn't be working "with him", but more or less at the same facility in a different location. Wow!! Real moral booster. In a huge rush this evening to get everyone where they needed to be and fed. They had pizza and salad. I think I'm doing well, I'll scrape the toppings off a piece and have a little lettuce with dressing. OH NO I DIDN'T. Severe chest pain and right back up it came. Hubby has been REALLY insensitive to anything pertaining to me, my struggles, pains and insecurities. He knew what was coming and agreed to be my "support" person. ( I have NO family left aside from my husband and three kiddos.) People say I lost X amount of weight when I left him, etc, but I have NO-ONE in this world, but him. I woke up a few hours later, had a good cry and here I am. I've had a run in with him bringing home all kinds of bad food from his folks (pasties, sweets, etc) and its been tough. I've asked that if he and the kids want to have Desserts and such they just go and do it, I don't need or want to know. He's turned it all around now and everything is my fault, this was my choice, and he's just been mean. I would be heartbroken if he went out to eat without me too, Sophie. I'm wondering if my skin is just thinner now or I'm seeing things clearer since I'm feeling more vunerable and less like fighting? I feel like in the last three weeks, his promise to be supportive has been anything but and really just the opposite. Sorry for the ramble, but I'm there with ya... I don't even want to argue... just cry.

Thanks. I forget to check my email and therefore don't see replies. I wish I knew how to navigate this site better. Once you log in here, is there a place to click to see your activity and see if you have responses? I've been having other issues as well. The water/fluid cramping is one. The cramps are the kind you get (I used to get) in my lower tummy that say "IT'S TIME TO FIND A BATHROOM". Problem is, when I sip, I get those cramps, but haven't been successful on my own in that other department in over 20 days. I've been getting help Sooo.. due to severe pain in the nethers...I'll spare you all- I FINALLY got though to my WLS yesterday. Despite the fact that they told me no Fiber or bulking suppliments for 6 weeks, he gave me the green light to add some. Like you said, James M., he said that the bacteria can be really wacko initially. He said the chemistry is completely different for RNY and Sleeve, too. I also was not supposed to take pills without crushing them. He said I could resume probiotics. I hope getting some GOOD bacteria in there helps with this cramp nonsense as well as elimination. I knew there would be hurdles, but life-long laxative dependency and being miserable with every sip of Fluid IS NOT something I signed up for... Fingers crossed. Thanks so much

Ok.. I'm just 14 days out RNY. All in all, I think I've done, doing very well. I caught a cold they day after I got home and let's just say coughing and sneezing was more than a little rough. I'm tolerating pretty much everything I try to eat. This is my problem and I suspect it's not uncommon, I just want to know WHY? What is it? First sips of Water or any liquid really cause me sick pain in my lower abdomen. It's the kind of gassy cramp I've known my whole life (prior to surgery) as I'm going to have gas or diarrhea pain. You know the kind that gives you a little chill and cramp and makes you think you better find a bathroom? This is NOT the case now. I had IBS prior to surgery and have not had a whole lot of luck in the potty department at all since surgery. I want to be happy I had this surgery, but am having a hard time finding the motivation to drink when it causes me belly aches. I just wonder what the mechanical reasoning is for this and PRAY that this is only temporary.

Well, it makes me feel better that I am not alone. Sorry ya'll. I had an appointment today to see a surgeon today locally to "rectify" the situation- thanks @ toasty.. haha. I go crazy she-scaping for the appointment (hey it's fall in IL, upper thigh shaving is optional at this point... haha), get of the shower to get the call "he got caught up in surgery, do you want to reschedule?" Grrrr!! Bum still VERY sore, but better than the weekend or even yesterday, so I pray it is somewhat resolving itself gradually? My WLS surgeon/team initially told me no bulk fiber or anything for like 6 weeks. I got through all the nurses and residents and actually spoke to the man yesterday (again 2.5 hours away.) He gave me the green light to start putting some fiber powder in my shakes, mirilax, Probiotics... Whatever works. I really really do not want to become 100% dependent though. I know I should try upping my Water intake, I love water or atleast always DID. Since surgery my first sips give me horrible stomach cramps (without the poop) and I guess have me somewhat turned off to water Water, coffee, exercise, laxatives, hot showers, fiber suppliments...got it... Oh.. maybe this will help someone else. Sounds weird, but when you are in misery anything is worth a shot, huh? I saw on another site someone mentioned a thing called the "squatty potty".. LOL at the name. It's essentially a stool that you put your feet on while in the throne. It is supposed to make things work better... Hmm? I suppose any little footstool would work? I may have to try this??? Thank all... Wish you all luck as well...

I've been reading in another support group that whey ISOLATE is best absorbed by us after RNY. Premier is concentrate. My doctor's staff actually gave us Premier sample. I do drink them. So far chocolate is my favorite. I agree they need to be really cold. I don't think you can beat the convenience and portability of these either.

I must be a tough cookie or was just highly motivated to get out of the small hospital my babies were delivered at and to THEM in neonatal intensive care 40 minutes away (they were transported, I was not... bad scenario.. ) I was discharged 2 days post of C-section with twins and walking like crazy through hospital to be with them as much as I could. Pain and recovery I truly think was made better by all that walking, insanely enough. 2nd C-section. In on a Monday, out on Thursday, conducted open house at our home on a Saturday. Roux en Y 20 days ago and it was A LOT less painful than either. Gas pain and I had it in the shoulder was the worst part. Again walk walk walk, toot, toot , toot and you'll feel better soon! Good luck

I'm 14 days out today. I tried a few pre-op and some after. I've returned some to GNC- just horrible smell and taste. unjury has been my friend thus far. They sell a sample pack- great investment. I don't like artificial strawberry flavors and theirs was pretty good. The chocolate splendor as well. I mix the unflavored in all kinds of stuff. 1/2 scoop here, 1/2 scoop there and I don't taste it. I think I am going to order their Vitamins next. Good luck.

I'm pre- surgical and about 2+ months from surgery. I was wondering if anyone had any information on alternatives to Aspertame in many of the products I think I will be told to consume after surgery? It's not that it's "not sugar", the stuff has always made me feel yucky and lets not get started on the taste. I do not know if I can make that transition. As for the liquid and soft portion of recovery, does anyone have any suggestions for Jello, etc that does not contain Aspertame. I've done Splenda, tried Stevia and most recently Monkfruit. Let's face it, they aren't sugar and that is OK. My body has told me time and time again though that it does not like Aspertame. I have enough fears going into this and don't want this to be another of them. Thanks for any suggestions or ideas in advance )

I think I like that idea. My 2nd RD appointment in in the books. I go back to Chicago the 13th for my PREP group and complete my 3rd appt with dietician later in the month. I will be sure to ask about artificial sweetners. I despise them for health reasons, but also because they taste just horrible. No sugar or just a tiny bit has to be better than using them. Thanks!!

I'm new to this forum so I didn't know how to reply. I replied to your suggestion. Thanks

BLERDgirl Thanks for the reply. I will have the option of trying these substitutes down the road. I haven't done my PREP group yet, that is in a few weeks. I do think I was told that they have you eat SF Jello after the surgery and for like a week while in the liquid phase. I'm already really stressed about THAT. The Aspertame- yuck, yuck, yuck. I have already cut back on sugar tremendously and realize this is a life long commitment. I too feel that I will have to use the real or safer alternatives in moderation. I'm looking for a substitute product or even a recipe that I can make while I need JELLO that does not contain Aspertame. You look like you are making great progress. Congrats and keep up the great work

HI! Thanks for replying!! It looks like you have already had your surgery? Mine wont get scheduled until I complete my 3 months which I am nearly 3 weeks into. My surgery will be a U of Chicago. Elgin would be easier to get to, but still a trek for me. I think I spoke to someone at the Kane Center prior to getting set up in Chicago. I have no idea where Hoffman Estates is, but it can't be as bad to get to as downtown. If you go to one, let me know. If I can't find one closer, like you, maybe I will try there. Good luck and thanks!