AboutKarla K. Expertise I'm very familiar with the four main types of bariatric surgery: Lap-Band/Adjustable Gastric Band, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y, and Duodenal Switch. I'm familiar with the Mini-Gastric Bypass and Revisions as well. I'm also beginning my seventh year post-op as a successful bariatric patient--so I can answer questions regarding pre-op, post-op honeymoon, and maintenance phases. I'm less familiar with the nuances of plastic surgery following bariatric surgery--but I do know a bit.
Experience Have been an avid researcher of the science of obesity and bariatric surgery for over ten years now. My professional career used to involve medical device research.
Education/Credentials Master's in Business Administration.
Expert: Karla K. Date: 4/12/2008 Subject: FOOD BLOCKAGE
Question I have been having pain under my left ribs the past 2 days after I eat I'm eating semi solds, surgey was on 2-27-08 and I still cant eat much of anything. I was just woundering if it sounds like there is a blockage.
Answer Hi Betty:
I'm not sure which type of surgery you had, as you don't mention it. A lot of people do get pain in that area if they eat too quickly. Try slowing down, by perhaps eating with a baby spoon or chopsticks. You can also try going back to mushees/purees to see if that helps.
You also could be experiencing a little bit of acid reflux (heartburn). Does your doctor have you on Prilosec or a similar medicine?
If you still feel the pain, please call your surgeon's office. It's never wrong to do so! That's what they're there for.
I honestly don't think you have a blockage (I'm assuming you're worried that your stoma is blocked... not an intestinal blockage.)
