Bariatric Surgery/Possible ulcer

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Expert: - 8/31/2011


Question
I had gastric bypass Roux en y 9 years ago.  I recently have developed stomach discomfort. It feels like a ulcer. It does respond to tums and tagament. And also if I keep food on my stomach. My weight loss was 165 lbs which I have kept off all but 5 lbs.  Does this sound serious ?

Answer
Ellen,
I can't advise you about whether this may be a serious condition, since that would fall in the category of providing medical advice and it is not OK to do that via the internet.  What I can say, generally speaking, is that the symptoms you describe do sound a lot like an ulcer and that you definitely should connect with your doctor for further evaluation.

Also, please be aware that medicines in the aspirin family (including motrin, aleve, meloxicam, etc) are very likely to promote ulcers in gastric bypass patients.  Also be aware that smoking cigarettes is VERY likely to cause ulcers.

Best of luck!
Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

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Volunteer

John Pilcher, MD

Expertise

I can answer medically oriented questions about bariatric surgery including: patient selection, preparation for surgery, differences between types of bariatric surgery, aftercare following bariatric surgery. I can answer detailed questions about gastric bypass, Lap-Band, gastric sleeve, and revision bariatric surgery. I am only somewhat familiar with Biliopancreatic diversion. I am not prepared to answer insurance or other financial questions related to bariatric surgery.

Experience

I have been a practicing bariatric surgeon since 1995. About 85% of my current practice consists of bariatric surgery, including all of the above procedures except biliopancreatic diversion. I am the senior surgeon of a 5-surgeon group. I am recognized among surgeons and other medical professionals as the most experienced bariatric surgeon in my region.

Organizations
Fellow of American College of Surgeons Member, American Society for Bariatric Surgery

Education/Credentials
BA in Biochemistry - University of Virginia Medical Degree - University of Virginia Surgical Residency - University of Virginia

Awards and Honors
Alpha Omega Alpha

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