Possible ulcer?

I just started smoking a pack a day since August and have been having pains in my pouch. Doctor and nurse practioner said it is a ulcer and that iI should go for an UGI, which I am sceduled to do Fri. morn. I wasn't aware that we can develop ulcers if we smoke. I didn't smoke back in Sept. 2005. I started taking Prilosec on Mon. Anyone develop an ulcer? What did it feel like to you? I am so disappointed I only lost 91lbs since surgery. I have been floundering between 216-219 since May. I haven't gained but I haven't lost either. I am getting down reading all these success stories and everyone being close to goal. My goal is 165 so I have 53lbs to go and that window is closing. I am scared. Take care. Any insight? Maggie

increase exercise, water and protein...that's what I do when I am stalled. And I'm just curious, why would you START smoking? Pam 5'2" 282/145/145 at goal!

hiya maggie - okay first of all - I'm sure that your surgeon wouldn't even do the surgery if you were smoking, I know mine wouldn't (not that I smoked but I know from others) - and IF you stopped for that long why would you go back to it? I'm honestly not sure if smoking can or will cause an ulcer but it certainly isn't helping. I developed an ulcer (actually 2) in the summer and my surgeon put me on medication (Kal something or other) and the pain went away and I have no more symptoms at all. I guess depending upon the severity of them they can heal...while taking the meds my surgeon told me no coffee and to limit my caffeine consumption to a minimum as well as keeping my food choice bland for a while. I am now back to normal and don't even know they are there! As for the weight loss - as Pam said - increase your water, exercise and protein - it WILL help...you still have the ability to work the tool you were given - you are only as successful as YOU allow yourself to be. Stalls and Plateaus happen - be patient and aggressive at the same time - do what you know is right. Good luck and I hope things get better for you Linda 300/163(surgeons goal was 165)/150 personal goal

Hi Maggie, I actually think I have an ulcer but I haven't been 'scoped' yet. I take Prilosec as well and when I don't I get in real trouble. I went to my surgeon on Tuesday and he does want me to be checked. For losing the rest of the weight - don't beat yourself up. You can continue to lose successfully past the 12 months, so keep trying. Go back to no carbs (if you have some), up the exercise, track your calories, all that stuff. I don't know if smoking aggervates the ulcer or not. I don't know that much about it. Hang in there, - there are plenty on this board that are not at goal and have to lose more, so you're not alone. Dont be discouraged! Look at how well you've done!! love donna