I've scrupulously avoided my beloved Diet Cokes since my surgery in July 2013 for fear of stretching my pouch. But now I wonder if it's been stretched to the size of a football !!!

I had a stomach virus yesterday with the most horrible pain I can ever remember experiencing (MUCH worse than any surgical pain I had--even worse than I remember childbirth being--but that was 33 years ago so those memories have probably faded!). I was doubled over in agony most of the time for about 4 hours.

Yesterday morning the waistband of my pants was loose--when I left work sick, I unfastened them and they spread open about 6-8 inches! My stomach was SO distended. I was really afraid my pouch was stretched that far, until I remembered it's called "intestinal gas," so hopefully that's where the gas expansion was occurring. Does anyone really know the answer?

Two things here ring out. Your surgery was back in July 2013. And with tremendous swelling and pain worse than your surgery.

These are symptoms that demand the expertise of your Doctor, not inquiries on a forum. Call your Doc. Better yet, go in to see him.

I really think it was just a virus because stomach viruses always hit me with gas pains more than anything else--this was just worse that any previously. The pain went away after about 4 hours and the distention was much better at about the same time and totally gone this morning.

Have you been tested for Celiac disease? It causes horrible pain and distention. Just something to think about. Glad you're feeling better! Oh and no--you didn't stretch your sleeve. If the pain returns, definitely call your doctor.

Sorry so long away--computer issues!! No, I haven't been tested for celiac; I had no idea those were some of the symptoms. It's been a week and a half since that bad day and no more issues. Thank for your response.

Jane