CowboyKurt

5 minutes ago, Flab-U-Less Forever said:

I am sorry to hear you are feeling so poorly and that you lost your dog. Have you tried the Protein waters?

Thank you. Yes I have drank the protien clear waters they are difficult to get down but I'm still trying with them. My refrigerator is FULL of protien Water and shakes.

Hi all, It's been a while since I have posted. Have been in a poor state of mind. It's been 18 days since my Sleeve surgery and though there was a good period of no pain it has surfaced again. My left side hurts immensely when I move. No movement no pain. I can't drink the Protein Shakes as I will through it up seconds after I consume. The surgeon's office said to try and dilute it with Water so that it is not so thick. Tried that but didn't work. I am drinking 2-3 sips of pedilight every 30 minutes. I was at the ER for 9 hrs this past Friday night as all of this just hit my tipping point. They did a chest X-Ray an MRI and all the regular Labs. Everything came back normal. The MRI did show there was some inflammation but nothing to be concerned about and my white blood cells were fine so no sign of infection. Last night I scrambled a few eggs and they stayed in. This morning I sipped a Peanut Butter smoothie from Jamba juice as it has 64g of Protein. I got about a 1/4 of it down. Emotions are still all over the place. On Thursday we had to put our Boxer dog down as he developed a neurological issue that had incapacitated him. I know that this to shall pass. I did not expect to be so "un-recovered" this far out of surgery. I am assuming that since all tests came back in good standing the pain I am feeling is being caused by throwing up so much. Mornings are really bad as I am just expelling a lot of mucus. The "dry-heaves" are pretty insane so much air comes up. I am taking medication for bloating and gas and also something to break up the mucus. I see my regular doctor on Wednesday so maybe he'll have some suggestions. I hope everyone is doing great with their recovery! Be well!

Good job. Sounds like you moving forward pretty good. I used Gas-X and that helped me.

3 hours ago, J’anna said:

Any updates? Hope you’re doing better.

Thanks, J'anna, I did take another covid test and should get the results in a day or two. Still very exhausted. I had my first follow-up with the surgeon's office today. They were pleased with my current status. They feel the sore throat was caused by the endotracheal intubation tube which is common. They also felt I am so exhausted due to not taking in needed Protein. I have been doing the protein clear drinks and today they wanted me to restart the chocolate Protein Drinks as they have more protein content. I have been trying but just taking two sips is making me so full and wanting to cough it up due to how think they are. I am to do the shakes for one more week then move to mushy food. Right now I'm mixing some Water with shakes to cut the thickness. I will keep on keeping on hopefully it will get better each day.

5 hours ago, Skyelle said:

Also are you getting any electrolytes in?

Not really. I am drinking Water, Premier Protein clear drinks, and broths as much as I can.

8 minutes ago, Skyelle said:

I think it’s normal as well due to low calories and fluids. Rest your body is going through a lot. Do your best to stay hydrated and call your doctor to just to be safe. Hope you feel better soon.

THANK YOU!

7 hours ago, summerseeker said:

My husband and I had covid 13 months ago and 3 weeks ago he caught the omicron variant. Take a test. I hope you get to the bottom of it and feel better soon

Thanks. I am getting tested again on Monday, to be safe.

3 hours ago, ShoppGirl said:

If you show signs of dehydration contact your team and they should be able to arrange for you to get fluids as an outpatient. I didn’t have to go to the ER to get fluids.

Thanks, I made a follow-up appointment with the surgeon for this Tuesday.

Howdy, all, I had the gastric sleeve surgery on 1/13/22 so I am 9 days post-op. For the past two days, I have been unbelievably exhausted, fatigued, and achy. I feel like it is getting worse. Today I have been crying almost non-stop. Not because of pain just emotional fatigue I guess. (Kept crying while watching the movie "Air Force One". It is not a sad movie. I am hardly taking in fluids, doing about 8 ounces every hour. Alternating between Water and Premier Protein Clear. Still, no food but can sip broth. I was walking but no longer as it is too tiring and I feel like I will fall. I have not called the Doctor as it is the weekend and the on-call will I'm sure would basically tell me if I am concerned then I should go to the ER. I am thinking maybe I should at least they will probably give me an IV for fluids for dehydration if that's the case. A year ago I had a very bad case of COVID-19, thankfully recovered (still can't smell anything) and since then I have had both VAX shots and the booster. I mention that because the exhaustion is reminiscent of that. Any suggestions? Please help. Thank you!

Howdy, all, I had the gastric sleeve surgery on 1/13/22 so I am 9 days post-op. For the past two days, I have been unbelievably exhausted, fatigued, and achy. I feel like it is getting worse. Today I have been crying almost non-stop. Not because of pain just emotional fatigue I guess. (Kept crying while watching the movie "Air Force One". It is not a sad movie. I am hardly taking in fluids, doing about 8 ounces every hour. Alternating between Water and Premier Protein Clear. Still, no food but can sip broth. I was walking but no longer as it is too tiring and I feel like I will fall. I have not called the Doctor as it is the weekend and the on-call will I'm sure would basically tell me if I am concerned then I should go to the ER. I am thinking maybe I should at least they will probably give me an IV for fluids for dehydration if that's the case. A year ago I had a very bad case of COVID-19, thankfully recovered (still can't smell anything) and since then I have had both VAX shots and the booster. I mention that because the exhaustion is reminiscent of that. Any suggestions? Please help. Thank you!

I feel ya. The time around 3 or 4 days was rough. IT DID GET BETTER. I am on day 9 post-op and honestly, I am more tired and sick (throwing up) yesterday and today than ever before. I also can't get warm. Yesterday I was sweating with low-grade temp but was also freezing. I hope that I did not get an infection. I am fully vaxed and boosted but everyone at my husband's work is sick with cold/ flu so maybe I just caught something. I still want to drink but just can't take in much. Paperwork says to intake 64 ounces a day. I was able to do 2oz every 15 minutes yesterday but no way today. Be well!

1 hour ago, Dcsjoc said:

My Sleeve surgery is scheduled for 1/24/22 and I was very excited about it until this past Monday. Almost haveing second thoughts. My pre surgical diet is shakes small fruit and Protein and veggies for lunch shake for dinner. All liquids day before. I’m down 13 lbs already from 278 to 265 why am I so nervous? Did anyone else have second thought????

Hi Dcsjoc, I myself just had the sleeve surgery on 1/13/22, and I can tell you the days just prior, I was feeling second thoughts. Mine I think was a mixture of two things. One was I have already been doing great losing weight on the pre-surgery diet so maybe I don't need to do it, and the second was the feeling of loss, anger, and frustration over all the things that I will no longer be able to eat and also the amounts. I realized that both (in my case) are due to fear and control. Fear of losing comfort and wanting to control everything. I have to keep reminding myself that I did not in fact have control and to keep out of fear I have to stay in the moment and not let my head think about results and the future. I have to stay in the process and simply take it step by step. Now that I am on the post-surgery diet it's funny how much I miss the Protein Shakes. The message boards/forums here on this site have helped me so much. I hope the same for you.

12 minutes ago, Skyelle said:

Hey everyone just stopping by to say I had my surgery today at 10am. I have been in and out of sleep with some pain. My throat is dry as hell and I can’t wait for a sip of Water. I have been gargling though. Waiting to go on my first walk now. Can’t wait to start this new chapter!

Congratulations! Take care.

48 minutes ago, Karamello44 said:

Does anyone have any tips for the 1st day ? Do you have alot of gas pain afterwards?

Hi Karamello44, congratulations and good luck. I had my surgery 5 days ago on the 13th on the day of the surgery and the day after I just had recovery pain. It was very manageable! For me I started taking the Gas-X in preparation don't know if it helped but for me, I didn't start having gas or bloating pain/discomfort until about a day ago. My biggest tip for the day of the surgery is to focus on breathing and set up a station next to where you will be recovering from anything you may want or need. (better to have too much than too little.) Also, use a cane or walking stick to help you get up so you don't use your stomach/core muscles as much.

15 minutes ago, Arabesque said:

It’s really up to you & what you’re able to cope with. Some say they can go back to drinking several mouthfuls at a time others not. I’m a not - two decent swallows & that’s still it for me but I can take another drink a couple of minutes later. Plus I don’t need to wait 30mins before & after eating - 10 is usually enough. I’d still go slowly to begin while your tummy is still healing - don’t want to strain all those staples & sutures holding it together. Once you’re on solid food, try slowly increasing your intake. Take your time & listen to your body. Actually that’s the best advcice for eating too.

Congrats on your surgery.

Thanks for the info. When you wrote, "Once you're on solid food" that really resonated with me and it all made sense. THANK YOU!

21 minutes ago, Tysheena84 said:

Hey friends. I had my surgery this morning. So far…so food. I’m having abdominal and surgery pain; which is to be expected. I’ve been walking and doing the incentive spirometer. Im staying overnight in the hospital. Im very tired, but happy. I started my life today!

For those who had the surgery, how are you doing? Those going to have surgery…food luck!

CONGRATULATIONS!! Mine was 4 days ago.

When can a take a regular drink? I had the Sleeve done on 1/13 and am currently on the post-op liquid diet. I am doing well with the sips and drinking liquid 1 or 2 ounces at a time. The max I have drunk at one time thus far is 2oz. I feel (and WANT) to drink more. I believe if I drink too much at a time it may "come up" but I am sure there is a middle point. Any suggestions? ? I have not attempted to drink more so I really don't know what would happen when and if my body rejects it.

When can a take a regular drink? I had the Sleeve done on 1/13 and am currently on the post-op liquid diet. I am doing well with the sips and drinking liquid 1 or 2 ounces at a time. The max I have drunk at one time thus far is 2oz. I feel (and WANT) to drink more. I believe if I drink too much at a time it may "come up" but I am sure there is a middle point. Any suggestions? ?

17 minutes ago, catwoman7 said:

"buyer's remorse" is pretty common the first couple of weeks. I had it, too. But then suddenly, things changed and I was really glad I had the surgery.

also - most people don't have a bowel movement until they're about a week out. Not much in there. That first one can be a doosie, though, so be prepared... (And just so you know, constipation can be a long-term issue for some of us (not all - but some). I've taken a capful of Miralax every day for several years to keep on top of it. But even for those who don't deal with it long term, it's very common to take a week when you're right out of surgery)

Thanks for that. It helps.

22 minutes ago, kmac1 said:

Hang in there buddy. The first few days suck! I had terrible abdominal gas, it took a handful of days before I had a movement, and felt crappy. I had a a shot glass of liquids every 15 minutes. It got easier to ingest as the days progressed. Good news: it’s temporary. Brighter days are ahead. Follow the plan of your medical team… it’s not their first rodeo. All the things you’re thinking are natural. You got this!

Thank you for that! Kinda funny in a way. I've been clean and sober for over 14 years and now I have to take shots every 15 minutes.

1 hour ago, CowboyKurt said:

Hi Kristen, GOOD LUCK! Very exciting. I didn't pack anything pre-surgery except for a very loose-fitting pair of sweats. I t-shirt. A helpful tip maybe make sure before you leave for when you get home you had a TV tray or something near your bed/chair where you will be spending much time. Put necessities on it like a tv remote, phone, book, Tissue, a container to spit up in if you need or feel nauseous, I also have a large walking stick to use as leverage to get up. (maybe tie something on it like a bathrobe rope on it for the times you can't reach it. Using any of your stomach/core muscles will take time. Good Luck!

I forgot to mention - I also marked a cup with 1oz, 2oz, and 3oz I poured my Water or clear Protein Drink into that cup as needed so I do not over drink.

Howdy there, today is my 3rd after the day of my surgery. We had planned on having the Gastric bypass done but upon consulting more with my Dr. they performed the Gastric Sleeve. I followed the medical professionals on this opinion. I don't remember anything but waking up and being in overall and in full pain and crying. (It did hurt but I am the biggest baby when it comes to pain.) Since the surgery, I have been taking in 1 ounce of water and 1 ounce of clear Protein Drink every hour. When I am able to I will also take in 1-2 oz of chicken broth. I am on a med for pain, a med for constipation, and a gut pill that I will take daily for at least a year. Thankfully the hic-ups are no longer as frequent the contractions were very painful. I still can not make myself go pee (Thankfully no catheter) I just sit there and wait until "he's" done. I have not had a bowel movement in 5 days. That is a bit concerning, however, I can not apply any internal pressure to assist it anyhow. I am walking as much as I can. I walk down the street to the next-door neighbor's house a few times a day. (always have my phone on me) Sheldon got me a huge walking stick and also tied a rope to it. There were a few times I was on the bed and couldn't get up or reach the stick for leverage. Kinda like a turtle on his back. Just lay there and cry. This will pass and I will get up. Until then the rope has been a lifesaver. I still need assistance to get out of bed or even to a sitting-up position most times. Still need to take the pain meds on a regular schedule though I have been able to increase the time between them. I really want some Mushy food (apple sauce, cottage cheese, etc.) I Can't have that until 1/27/22. Still on the clear liquid diet. Yesterday I spent most of the day in my head regretting this decision and wanting a way out. The strongest feeling I have is honestly, "This to shall pass." I remember when I couldn't take experiences "One Day at a Time" and had to break them down to one moment at a time!!!. Between that knowledge and having the overwhelming love & support from my husband, my family, and all my friends this experience and the pain is all be it slowly getting behind me. (Just moved a little and it HURT like hell. So not so far behind LoL!)

I really want to intake more! My paperwork states that they reduced my stomach from about 60oz down to about 4oz. I guess I have to wait until that heals so then the 4oz pocket stretches to hold more. The times that I injust more than 4oz of Water I burped and it all came up. It still feels weird to feel the liquid go down and make a turn. it doesn't hurt and has no symptoms of leaking so it's just weird. The headaches are rough but thankfully I had some stuff called "Goodys" headache powder it is gross cause it's just like aspirin but powder this way with very little water it's dissolved quickly Sorry for such a really long message. I appreciate all of your posted comments and question with each other they have helped me immeasurably. Be well!

11 minutes ago, Kris10_78 said:

Cleaning up the house, trying to get things in order before I head to the city 2.5 hours away where I will have the surgery Tuesday morning. Excited, scared, all around nervous, ready to have it done.

I will be staying in the city until Saturday to rest up before someone drives me home.

Any tips on what I should pack?

Thanks

Kristen

Hi Kristen, GOOD LUCK! Very exciting. I didn't pack anything pre-surgery except for a very loose-fitting pair of sweats. I t-shirt. A helpful tip maybe make sure before you leave for when you get home you had a TV tray or something near your bed/chair where you will be spending much time. Put necessities on it like a tv remote, phone, book, Tissue, a container to spit up in if you need or feel nauseous, I also have a large walking stick to use as leverage to get up. (maybe tie something on it like a bathrobe rope on it for the times you can't reach it. Using any of your stomach/core muscles will take time. Good Luck!

Howdy there, today is my 3rd after the day of my surgery. We had planned on having the Gastric bypass done but upon consulting more with my Dr. they performed the Gastric Sleeve. I followed the medical professionals on this opinion. I don't remember anything but waking up and being in overall and in full pain and crying. (It did hurt but I am the biggest baby when it comes to pain.) Since the surgery, I have been taking in 1 ounce of Water and 1 ounce of clear Protein Drink every hour. When I am able to I will also take in 1-2 oz of chicken broth. I am on a med for pain, a med for Constipation, and a gut pill that I will take daily for at least a year. Thankfully the hic-ups are no longer as frequent the contractions were very painful. I still can not make myself go pee (Thankfully no catheter) I just sit there and wait until "he's" done. I have not had a bowel movement in 5 days. That is a bit concerning, however, I can not apply any internal pressure to assist it anyhow. I am walking as much as I can. I walk down the street to the next-door neighbor's house a few times a day. (always have my phone on me) Sheldon got me a huge walking stick and also tied a rope to it. There were a few times I was on the bed and couldn't get up or reach the stick for leverage. Kinda like a turtle on his back. Just lay there and cry. This will pass and I will get up. Until then the rope has been a lifesaver. I still need assistance to get out of bed or even to a sitting-up position most times. Still need to take the pain meds on a regular schedule though I have been able to increase the time between them. I really want some Mushy food (apple sauce, cottage cheese, etc.) I Can't have that until 1/27/22. Still on the clear liquid diet. Yesterday I spent most of the day in my head regretting this decision and wanting a way out. The strongest feeling I have is honestly, "This to shall pass." I remember when I couldn't take experiences "One Day at a Time" and had to break them down to one moment at a time!!!. Between that knowledge and having the overwhelming love & support from my husband, my family, and all my friends this experience and the pain is all be it slowly getting behind me. (Just moved a little and it HURT like hell. So not so far behind LoL!)

I really want to intake more! My paperwork states that they reduced my stomach from about 60oz down to about 4oz. I guess I have to wait until that heals so then the 4oz pocket stretches to hold more. The times that I injust more than 4oz of water I burped and it all came up. It still feels weird to feel the liquid go down and make a turn. it doesn't hurt and has no symptoms of leaking so it's just weird. The headaches are rough but thankfully I had some stuff called "Goodys" headache powder it is gross cause it's just like aspirin but powder this way with very little water it's dissolved quickly Sorry for such a really long message. I appreciate all of your posted comments and question with each other they have helped me immeasurably. Be well!

3 minutes ago, Splenda said:

Random Thoughts/Advice

1. Once you are physically able to, walk as much as you can -- even in the hospital. It will help promote healing and work the gas out of your system.

2. Go to Walgreens tonight and buy a heavy duty cane. Mine helped me in two ways: (1) it was super helpful for pushing myself up out of chairs/off the toilet and (2) it gave me a sense of confidence in walking that I wouldn't fall (your stomach/gut will be so physically sensitive that even a mild fall would be excruciating and a more severe fall could burst stitches).

3. The night before the surgery was the most miserable part of the entire experience. You take so many laxatives that you are living on the toilet, you can only drink liquids, you want to sleep, but are continually pooping.

4. In the hospital, I found it much easier to sleep in a recliner than in my bed. Once the anesthesia wore off, I spent 99% of my time sitting in the recliner.

Great, thank you. I will be coming home right after the surgery. No hospital stay due to COVID-19 increases. I didn't even think about the laxatives the night before...