Medications

Last night I got word that another person developed ulcers from taking an extended course of NSAIDS. It was not prescribed by her WLS surgeon, but another Dr. The size of her ulcer is MASSIVE, over 50% of her pouch! I have a friend in Il. who had over 75% of her pouch involved in an ulcer, and is now waiting for a date to have her pouch removed. 8 months of trying to heal it has only reduced the ulcer down to slightly less than 50% of the pouch. She is in constant pain, on oxycontin PLUS other medications, and since it is painful to eat, now has her digestive system shutting down and is no longer absorbing the necessary vitamins and minerals. IV therapy weekly. We are hoping that our local friend will heal, but know it is a LONG HAUL. Typically, over one year before an ulcer has healed. Joanne's ulcer took close to one year, but still feels a twinge when she eats something spicy. i cannot stress enough whenever you take ANY MEDICATION not prescribed by your WLS surgeon, DO NOT TAKE FOR GRANTED that it WILL NOT injure your pouch. HAVE YOUR DOCTOR CALL YOUR WLS SURGEON! One year of healing is a short price to pay, compared to the woman who will be losing her pouch next month. You MUST be your own advocate for your health care. Ask if you need to, call if you need to, but whatever you do, MAKE SURE YOU ARE SAFE AND HEALTHY! If there is a possible side effect to any medication or combination of medications, take it for granted that it will happen to you. Check the websites for product information on prescription medications. PLEASE BE SAFE! (kicks soapbox to the side) Peter

Thanks for the wonderful reminder. Advice well taken. Eileen

Thanks for the reminder Peter. So many health professionals "guess" when it comes to WLS patients. A simple phone call to your surgeon can save so much pain and suffering! Carmen

Thanks for the info Peter. That's very interesting and troubling. I keep my dr. informed and he keeps me on medication to prevent ulcers based on medication I need to take regularly. I hope it keeps things in check! That's a reminder to keep on top of such possibilities. Have a great holiday! Kathy

Thanks for the heads up! My God...I wonder what on earth is going to happen to the woman who is having her pouch removed? Are they going to reverse the surgery and attempt to attach the stomach??? Is she just going to be left with a straight tube? How the heck can she eat? I feel so bad for her..what a NIGHTMARE! Sher'