IF YOU DO NOT POSSESS TOILET HUMOR OR YOU ARE RUNNING SMOOTHLY IN THIS DEPARTMENT, THAN FEEL FREE TO SKIP THIS POST! FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO ARE NEW TO THIS LIKE ME, READ ON! Usually, I have imagery for every post but I felt that the imagery was best left alone on this one. When I began my blog, I promised I would be honest in all my experiences. Ordinarily, I wouldn't talk about it, but I feel its relevant information to have. The past three days, I have been feeling more and more bloated. I figured since I am a female and close to that " monthly nightmare" this was just par for the course. I mean why on Earth would I even dream that a LapBand would solve my post menstrual crazy time and subsequent physical discomfort. So I took some 'fix it" medication and moved on. However, the pressure kept getting worse. One trip to the restroom left me feeling like I just gave birth in the wrong direction. No breathing techniques really worked mine you. So I decided that it may be time to consult the nurse. So I called the office and stated my problem. I was immediately asked about my recent restroom habits. Since I had to think about it for a minute, I already knew the answer wasn't good. She said the dreaded "c" word: constipation. First of all, this is my FIRST surgery. I just feel the need to explain my naiveté. I had no idea that taking Pain Killers would cause a Back Up in the Wrong Place. She informed me to take a laxative and probably a stool softener wouldn't hurt. Although, I am new to surgery, I am not new to constipation. I am well aware that laxatives don't usually work quickly when it comes to me, often having to wait 48 to72 hours before I see results. So in my infinite wisdom I took two of each once a day (laxative and stool softener) for two days straight. Well, I did get results. Better than I expected actually. In the end, I felt bad for the bathroom. I also lost five pounds in three days. Apparently there is some truth to being Full of It. Anyways, I am drinking plenty of fluids and resting after vigorous exercise. I feel much, much better. Moral to this story: if you are taking pain killers and you feel bloated, chances are you may be clogged. I find the regular over the counter gentle stuff works ( I hate magnesium citrate ---- if you can do without liquid laxatives, I suggest you forego them. If they don't unclog you, the taste alone will kill you.)