Hi,

I was banded on 7-27-05, and lost 22 lbs by Nov. I needed another fill, but waited until after the holidays were over. Good thing, too, my Mom got shingles and is still not recovered.

Anyway, I have had 3 horrible PB episodes since being banded. I'm concerned that they have lasted so long when they've happened. Has this happened to others--I read some people can bring it up right away, within a half hour, ie. My first one was 3 hrs, the 2nd one was 2 hours and the last one was 9 hrs!!!

The last one was not quite as severe as #1 & #2, in that I could swallow my saliva. But horrible chest pain/pressure, and sips of warm Water came right back up. All 3 of these bad PBs have had to pass through my stoma.

I pray I don't get another one, (and the ones noted above were all about 2 months a part), but does anyone have any suggestions about how to shorten the episode, if it's possible?

When I first get the feeling, I immediately stop eating, stand up and start walking around. I wait at least 45 minutes before I try a sip of warm water. This last 9 hr one I can't even say I was eating improperly or anything--about 3 bites of chicken & veggies, well chewed.

Should I try to make myself throw up right away? What do you folks do? Appreciate any help you can give me. Thanks--Jigglypuff

Jigglypuff,

Ive had a couple of really long lasting pb's (like you). It makes for a very swollen esophagus that last a couple of days. YIKES!

What do I do?

hmmm, it depends. Sometimes just drinking a bit of Water will flush it through -or- make it come up. And yet, other times it stays stuck for much longer periods. Like you, I walk, jog, lay on tummy, drink water, drink more water... whatever works.

If I end up literally vomiting, it will usually dislodge the stuck item.

Is this enough details?

Good luck!

Jigglypuff, I've had two episodes like this over the last 2.5 years, and all I could determine to do is stay away from whatever caused it.

I've heard rumors that tiny sips of soda can help in situations like this, but I've never tried it. It's just a matter of figuring out what works and not letting it happen again. It sucks, though, and I know it!

I think that the counselor where I go for fills said to try not to drink if this happens. Something about rinsing away the mucus that you need there to make it better. I told her about my episode and she specifically asked if I had stayed away from water. I said yes -- she said good. To me, it seems like water would help wash it down, but she said no. I've read alot of posts where they say water helps --- so hopefully you'll get enough advice to help! I don't know much more than that except for like Alex, I will stay away from the food that caused me the problem. Hope it gets easier for you....

I read a post on here, a long time ago (a few months maybe) that said a remedy to get rid of the stuck item was take some meat tenderizer and mix it with water and drink it. I guess the theory is the tenderizor would dissolve the offending object. I can't remember the amounts though, and don't know if it's "safe" for the band. It seems like a good idea if it works though...

Sunta,

My MIL had her stomach stapled 20+ years ago. And when she has something "stuck", the only thing that clears it is meat tenderizer.... but it has to be Adolph's brand. Have NO idea why.

Although she (MIL) has recommened me trying it ~ Im too scared! :nervous

Thank you, all!

I appreciate your input. Thanks for taking the time to help with your suggestions--it is such a comfort to know I'm not alone.

Jigglypuff:kiss2:

Jack,

Im trying to reach MIL to ask about the tenderizer working on a "clogged" starch. Im thinking the only thing she uses the Adolph's for is a Protein clog... which goes along with what you were saying.