Is this normal??

[tnewton8351 0]

I was banded on 8/26 and still having pain on my left side. I am very uncomfortable and feel like my stomach is bloated all the time.

I thought maybe it was gas pains so I have been taking Gas X then I called the nurse and she suggested Mylanta so I started taking it. Neither one seemed to help or make a difference.

Eating or not eating makes no difference so I don't think there is an issue there. I have no trouble keeping food or liquids down.

This afternoon I called my dr's office and spoke with another gastric dr. (mine is in Europe on vacation). He said I should start taking the pain medication again and if it doesnt get any better to go to the Emergency center.

The pain is not unbearable so I don't think an emergency room is warranted but I don't know what to do. I don't want to ignore a potential problem but I also don't want to over react.

My mom says I just have a low tolerance for pain and that may be true but has anyone had this experience? Should I just wait it out and see if this subsides?

At this point, are most of you completely pain free? I read where everyone seems to be feeling wonderful and I am not. Does this mean the band does not work for me??

Any suggestions, comments, would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Talisa

[ByeByeBonBon 1]

Most likely, it's just gas pains from the gas they pump into your body during surgery, and it's completely normal. I was banded two days after you, and while it has eased up a bit, I'm still having those same pains on and off.

From what I've gathered, the gas relief medications don't work because the gas isn't intestinal, but sitting in your abdominal cavity. Generally, it's suggested to get up and walk around a bit to shake it loose. I've also read, and one of my nurses recommended, rocking gently in a rocking chair to help.

We know how you feel -- it's definitely not the most pleasant feeling, but will be worth it in the long run :sneaky:

Edited September 4, 2009 by ByeByeBonBon

[LollyMoe 1]

I was banded on 8/11 and I had the same problems you are having. I didn't take any pain meds at all as I have a high threshold for pain. My nurse said to walk, walk, and use gas-X. It finally got better about a week later. The only problem I have now is that my tummy itches all the time! Hang in there. You will be alright.

[tnewton8351 0]

Thank you so much for responding. I was really worried something was wrong with me. I walked for 25 minutes this evening and I think it did help. I guess I haven't been walking enough.

I wish I had a rocking chair but we got rid of the one we had about a year or so ago. My daughter is 5 now and we figured we wouldn't need it anymore!

I guess I will just keep walking and hoping this will pass.

I am feeling better about it after reading your responses. Thanks again.

[Timah85 0]

I felt exactly how you feel after I had my surgery... I have NO tolerence for pain whatsoever, and was given a lot of meds but didnt do anything.

I also suggest LOTS of walking..I had to walk 3 hours after my surgery it was so uncomfortable...

Also, if you can get someone to give you a somewhat deep tissue massage on that side, and on your back..it works wonders. Gas X and mylanta didnt do anything for me either.

It will pass eventually!

Sorry for your pain, hope you feel better soon!!

[melmarlem 0]

I agree with Byebyebonbon. Gas-X isn't effective for the type of gas pains you may be having. I was banded almost 3 weeks ago and my surgeon's physician assistant told me that Gas-X only works for gas in the intestines themselves. Hang in there and hopefully you'll be feeling better soon! :sneaky: