I need some support from anyone who has had their surgery and suffers from severe anxiety and lots of throwing up.

I had my surgery in May 2007 and for the first six months had no problems. Then I started throwing up all the time due to anxiety. I had this condition prior to surgery but think it worsened due to the not being able to eat anything and everything all the time. I went on a spending spree for a while to take away the void from not being able to eat.

I have been in the hospital four times for dehydration due to so much throwing up. When I get nervous about anything my band tightens up and I can't eat anything or if I do it gets stuck and I start throwing up and I don't throw up just once I throw up 10 times.

The doctors have tried everything. I hope the last resort is not taking the band out because I have lost the weight but mostly due to throwing up!!!

Is there anyone who suffers from the same symptoms?

Please advise.

Hi:

Have you tried anti-anxiety drugs? It may help.

Hope you get better soon.

Sue

Hi Dane65,

I haven't had surgery yet, but I know I will face a similar dilemma when I do. I have always used eating to relieve anxiety and depression, the same way other people use alcohol and drugs.

I know I will have to find more positive ways to cope with my emotions (rather than destructive ways like gambling or excessive shopping).

My surgery center offers weekly support groups, which I will definitely be attending. If I want to drive around to different cities, I could attend up to three per week if needed.

I think journaling and writing about feelings could help. Other options are individual or group therapy, or a 12 Step program like Overeaters Anonymous or Emotions Anonymous. A meditation class or yoga class might also be very helpful.

Best of luck to you (and me too!),

pixistix

I have clinical depression and extreme anxiety, I have had it for about 5 or 6 years, I take meds for both. I am 10½ weeks post op. I knew I would have some problems because food was my friend, my comforter and it would not be there for me like before the band. I take meds but still have struggled some with this. I would suggest that you find a counselor and get into some talk therapy. I did 2½ years of it for different reasons but you need to talk about whatever it is that is making you reach for food for comfort. Seeing a counselor was the best thing I ever did for myself, EVEN better than getting the band.

Also there are a lot of different breathing techniques you can do to help with anxiety. If you goggle it you should find some. I use them some and they help. Are you working out everyday? That would really help with the anxiety too.

Your regular Dr should be able to give you something for anxiety. Just go and talk to the Dr. You don't have to take any tests. Most meds for anxiety are take as needed meds so you do not have to wait 4 or 6 weeks for them to build up in your body like a depression med does. A small dose of Xanax would probably help you. If you ever need to talk just private message me.