IBS and WLS

[JaneDarcy 9]

Hi I just learned I have IBS and it super sucks I'm sick so often it's hard to know when I can leave the house. I started having symptoms after gaining a large amount of weight. I have not yet had my weight loss surgery but I was wondering if any of you suffering from IBS have had less symptoms since losing a large amount of weight from your surgery.

Any info would be helpful

Thank you.

[biginjapan 647]

I had IBS when I was younger and it developed into full-fledged ulcerative colitis by the time I was 30. I've been on meds for it off and on since then. I had my surgery 3.5 weeks ago and I have to say I haven't had any symptoms. I think. It's hard to know what's normal after sleeve since I've never had a sleeve before. Unlike many other people, I do not suffer from Constipation post-op, and usually have a bowel movement 3 times a day - it's always loose and soft, similar to what I had pre-sleeve. However, I do know that when I went on the pre-op diet, which allowed lean Protein and non-starchy vegetables, and was no dairy or alcohol or caffeine, all of my symptoms cleared up immediately and I had no issues. The big difference between then and now is that I am eating cheese and greek yogurt to help meet my protein goals, but I wonder if that is affecting my BMs. However, I'm not going to change anything until I back to full foods and can cut back on the dairy.

I'm not taking any meds for the colitis at the moment as I don't know how well they'll work with my new sleeve. I'm going to go talk to my gastroenterologist next week about it. That said, I've done some research about it and it seems that the sleeve really helps alleviate symptoms. I know colitis and IBS in general are not exactly the same, but as I have suffered from one or the other for over 30 years, to me there is little difference between them.

[Vinasu 621]

I was diagnosed with IBS three years ago. It is miserable, but I had/ have a fairly mild case.

I haven't had a single flare-up since surgery. I do deal with Constipation and gas, like most people after surgery, but it's nothing compared to IBS.

That having been said, I have no idea if my lack of issues is because of the surgery, completely unrelated, or in spite of the surgery.

[nomofat 1]

I have a few extra new, sealed and fresh cans of cholestyramine. it is a godsend for anyone suffering from ibs and or dumping syndrome. My copay is $80 per can but I don't mind losing a few bucks if it will help someone. Let me know if you know someone who has a legitimate need for this. thank you.