Nevermind

I'm game. I haven't done a challenge yet. So we post our weight to this thread starting Sept 5 and every week thereafter until Halloween? Is that correct?

Hi. I am almost 4 months post-op. I began just after surgery taking famotidine (generic Pepcid), then went to generic Prilosec (omeprazole) but that has since stopped working and I have noticed that I have more hunger pains. I started taking Nexium and it has helped. The instructions on the Nexium says to take once per day. I have been taking 2 per day. Can I get by with one a day? I guess I just started taking 2 because that is what I was taking with the Prilosec. The instructions on the Nexium bottle says once per day. It also says not to take for more than 14 days without doctor approval. I haven't contacted my surgeon's office because they are located out-of-state. I guess I should do that, but can anyone give me tips as to what helps you? The Nexium is quite expensive and I hope it goes generic soon. How long does it take your tummy to adjust (I do realize some have to take antacid long-term) and when should I try to get by without an antacid? Responses are greatly appreciated.

If he's not willing to advocate for you, try another surgeon. A second or third opinion cannot hurt. Hope you get the answer you need soon.

Thanks for the replies. I will check with my doctor. It is a known issue that some people deal with acid problems after VSG. I don't have a huge problem where I have burning or am waking up in the middle of the night with acid coming up, as others have had way worse problems with acid. I do know, however, that the hunger pains are really acid problems, because once I treat the acid, the hunger goes away, as the above poster mentioned. I am going to try the nexium and a pepcid complete and see if that works, and will check with the surgeon's office. I do have medical insurance and will check with my PCP if my surgeon's office doesn't have much to say....

That's a good idea. I may try that. The nexium is so darn expensive and I paid $14k for surgery, airline tickets, etc... I need to save everywhere I can.

I am a few months out and have been taking omeprazole (generic nexium). I had a chronic cough for the first month after surgery. Now the chronic cough is back and I think the acid reflux is the cause because yesterday I was also very, very hungry. Has anyone had to change acid reflux meds and, if so, to what? Thanks for responses.

Thanks for the responses. I remember now that omeprazole is generic Pepcid. Forgot. I'm not sure if I should call my doc or not. I had my surgery in another state. They did call in some carafate (? Does that sound right) but it was very expensive under my insurance so I didn't get it. Suggestions for another ok that works? I tried Prevacid years ago when I was pregnant and it helped then. Is it normal at just over 3 months to still be adjusting to acid production? All I know is yesterday I felt like I just couldn't get full so I was eating every hour. I still only had about 1500 calories but I absolutely can't do that every day. Plus the stupid cough.... I don't want it to keep me from going to church because I would hate to sit there and cough the entire time. I totally appreciate and respect all responses!! Y'all are great!

Thanks. I will check with my surgeon. I appreciate your response. Blessings to you!

I'm sorry but maybe blessing in disguise? (Easy for me to say). I would have a prepared answer (maybe others can offer more suggestions) but word your response in such a way that simply implies you are not open to discuss it further a this time. Good luck.

My surgeon (and another bariatric surgeon I consulted with said NSAIDS were fine with the sleeve.) My neuro said to limit them to 3 or less times per week to avoid medication overuse pain (your body can indeed become addicted, requiring more and more medication). I have been sleeved for 3 months and take NSAIDS sparingly, but at least once per week. I have had zero problems, but everyone is different. I have neck arthritis as well as other chronic pain which requires medication to manage. This is my experience. You make an informed decision that works for you.

People say use Gas X strips, but it's a total myth. The gas you are trying to expel after surgery is in your chest cavity, not in your new tummy. The absolute ONLY way to get rid of it is to walk. Good luck.

So I am couple weeks out from surgery. Been on full bariatric liquids, and quite hungry. I have forgotten to take the antacid a few times which I know helps the $çhunger. So yesterday, kids bday party and I was just nibbling on a small mini cupcake. At first it was a lick, then the entire thing was gone before I know it. Well that's not true. I did know it because I was aware that I needed to get it to a soupy state before swallowing. I'm on full liquids another week, then 3 on soft. Yes, I know it was a lame move and Yes I'm dedicated. I just didn't expect to be this hungry Can I get sick from a liquified cupcake? Please no chastising. I know what to do

Well thank you. I'm not sure though how you can see in my face since I have no photos Posted. But thanks for the support.

I'm wondering if I should purchase an abdominal binder? I will be traveling for my surgery and I'm nervous about my tummy getting bumped in a crowd or shuffling on a plane. Also, would it help with pain? I know some say just use a pillow...

I recommend sampling before buying. I bought just a couple bottles of isopure. Had to flush them away. Absolutely the worst tasting stuff ever!

I haven't had surgery but I think that is why it's supposed to help; it holds stuff in place to prevent pulling. Especially for those of us whose surgeon does the extra deep muscle stitch. I was thinking it would be too hot, but the one I bought at the medical supply store seems pretty lightweight. I'll post in a week or so if it helps me. Best wishes.

Thanks for the replies. I was at a medical supply store looking at them with my husband and I wasn't going to get it. But he shoved it at me and said "You're getting it!" Now I'm glad I did. Surgery next week!

I am less than a month from my surgery with Dr. Nick in Dallas. They have already called in multiple prescriptions. I have 4 scripts for nausea alone (not counting what they will give me in the IV). I have a gel that I rub between my wrists, the patch for night before, sublingual anti-nausea, and Emend (1 pill which costs almost $70 for ONE pill). Ok, so I guess nausea is a big deal for some and a not-so-big-deal for others. I am going to take everything I can get because I don't want to be in the hospital and wish I had bought the one pill that supposedly lasts for several days. As well, I am scared because they prescribed me hydrocodone which I have on my allergy list. It makes me really sick/vomiting with itching and hives. Also,I had a surgery in Oct whereby I was in ICU for a day and I was given dilaudid. It helped me the first few times I had it but suddenly after a dose of it, I started vomiting/heaving. I was also given benedryl for the itchiness. It is my understanding that I may not have a deadly allergy to these meds, but just a high sensitivity. I guess the bottom line is: I am concerned that I am not going to have adequate pain control. Also does anyone know anything about the left side muscle stitch that Dr. Nick does? Apparently it is a very tight stitch and it "pops" somewhere between 3-6 weeks and before the stitch pops, it causes quite a bit of pain for some. Chime in if you guys know about any of this stuff. Sorry this post is kind of all over the place. I do appreciate everyone's input.

Can't delete multiple posts? Technical issues?

Yes, I have my records (which I am taking). Even though it's financially painful, I think I'm ending up with a better surgeon AND I HAVEN'T EVEN MET HIM. The doc I'm going to does his own testing included in the self-pay cost. All things work together for my good....

My insurance also had an exclusion. After much research and all of my thoughts saying "What if something goes wrong?" I have decided to stay in the US. For many people, going to Mexico is the best decision for them. But after much research and prayer with my family, I've decided to go to Texas. At the end of the day, you have to do what is best for you and your situation. Best wishes to you.

If you are willing to pay the program fee (which I was) then I'd do it if the surgeon is extremely experienced. Just a note of caution: Check and double check that your insurance pays the rest. The place I went to said they'd check with my insurance to insure I had weight loss surgery covered. They never checked but told me they did and that I had coverage. So, I paid $750 program fee and also paid for 3 months of nutrition classes. Well, I met with my surgeon for the pre-op (did everything they required... EKG, blood work, stress test, psyc, etc). Then when it was finally time to schedule they actually did check my insurance only to find out there is a weight-loss surgery exclusion. They said at the initial seminar that they were "pros" at dealing with insurance. Needless to say, they kept all my money and I have since checked out numerous other places, plus my sis had the surgery... There are many places that do not have a program fees. One final note: this place who said they were pros with insurance wouldn't even take my calls once they found out there was an exclusion. I hope someone can benefit from the mistake I made. I am now going to be self-pay and going to Texas.

Tampa area.

Good for you! I just got my date for April. I can't wait to get to the other side too but really scared! I am very happy for you!

Wishing you the best. I'm pre-surgery (don't have a date yet) and I'm oh so scared....but, I was walking around JCP yesterday and was so ill and hurting from being so overweight and I told myself "remember how bad this feels". I can't wait to just get healthy! You will do awesome. Please post about your experience later.