I don't see how the Lap Band could cause IBS or any other bowel issue, however, I can see how what you eat because of the Lap Band band could irritate it.

This is a shot in the dark, but have you been tested for Crohn's Disease?

Bental is very hit or miss for most people btw. Sometimes it works others not at all. (I have IBS, too)

I'm no Dr, but my guess is also that this is food related. I know you say you've been following a gluten free diet for 2 years, but, perhaps, there is something that you are eating that is causing this gassy, painful problem. I don't know, but maybe cheeses, yogurts, dairy?

Wish I could help more, but I'd really look into what you're eating. Congrats on the great weight loss.

Good luck & feel better!

Before I was banded I had to take 6 pills a day to eat because of a hernia and my stomach was in the wrong place. Were you tested for these? Maybe some foods are not agreeing with you. I was banded 7/30 and get terrible gas at night (my poor husband). Tomorrow I start Stage 5 so who knows what will agree or not.

Good luck, call the dietitian.

My sister-in-law (a non-banded person) was having similar issues and her doctor thought it may be celiacs but now is having her go dairy free to see if that helps things. Perhaps logging your food every day and notice what you have the day of or day before these bouts (if you haven't already). Also, as Mis 73 said, have you been checked for Crohns? That can have similar symptoms.

Good luck.

I am going through the same thing. I have been banded 2 years and lost 135 lbs. I had a painful episode in April, went to the emergency room after being in pain for 3 days. And was told nothing, must be gas. Also went to my gastro dr. he said nothing was wrong, to take Miralax everyday to make sure I am not constipated. Since I have been taking the Miralax on a regular, I have had no problems going to bathroom or passing gas. Everything I eat was coming out in about an hour (sorry tmi). On Friday, I came to work and had to be sent home in car service the pains were so bad. I had to open my pants, I looked like I was 5 months pregnant. I went to my primary dr. she sent me to the emergency room to have a Cat Scan. They found nothing. I am going to watch what I am eating also. I have been eating a lot of cottage cheese and greek yogurt for breakfast. I definitely will try going dairy free. I think I will stop eating that and see what happens. If anything has any good suggestions for us, please let us know. Good luck to you.

I logged on this evening to se if anyone was having this problem. Here lately, every evening after dinner; I bloat up and look 9 month pregnant. I get severe gas pains and it so uncomfortable not to mention GROSS!! Why is this happening?