Dr. C. Bulimia and the Band?

Terrilen · December 16, 2006

I had a history of bulimia prior to getting my band. It had been treated and under control for years. However since having this band it has reared its ugly head again in a very strong way! I have not had good luck with keeping things down since day one. food and medications get stuck with every meal.When things get stuck.. I am bringing them up. This is happening soo much I have to keep a cup handy to purge in just in case I cannot get to the bathroom. Yes a vomit cup..no house should be without one! ha! [i have to make fun of it or I would cry.] I do not get it! I take my time, take teeny bites and chew till goo! I finaly got so frustrated I resorted to soft foods which has..for me meant weight gain not loss! Everytime I go for a check up they do a Floro and say my band is fine! I have a 4cc band and have 1.8 fill. But the bottom line is I am spending way too much time with my head over the toilet again! The ability to purge so easily based on my history is not a good asset to bring to the table. My old habit is not helping an already very bad sittuation! I am seeing a therapist about my bulimia, so at least you know I consider that a priority. What do you think I need to do? Thanks!

Trace Curry · December 16, 2006

First of all I don't think what you're describing is bulimia at all, it sounds like the symptoms of an overtight band. It doesn't matter what it looks like on fluoro, if you have symptoms of being overtight, you're overtight.

Dr. C

Cincinnati, Ohio

www.TheBandDoctor.com 877.442.BAND

DISCLAIMER: I am not your surgeon, any comments made by me are not meant to be taken as medical advice, just general guidelines. Contact your surgeon about your specific problem!

Terrilen · December 16, 2006

I see... very interseting.Thanks for your input. Good luck in your practice!

Carlene · December 16, 2006

Terri...

I have been in the same boat - band too tight but looked great on fluoro. Dr C is right about that....no matter what the fluoro shows, if you are barfing regularly, you are too tight. Some people just have a touchy pouch and it takes very little to make us spit up. My doctor, who is banded, knows this because he is the same way.

TruBlueSue · December 16, 2006

Wow - I have started to experience this, too - I have started to toss up everything I eat. Last night, I had a little bit of lamb, and when it got stuck, went in to pb - this time, it was more like a preband toss...a lot of volume...I am freaking out that I might have slipped my band, dilated my pouch, etc. I just saw my doc on Tuesday; didn't get a fill...am at 1.4 cc in a 4cc band...my doc is banded, too and when she does fills its not under flouro...any advice, Dr. C??