how long??

Hi Everyone, I'm doing alright...quite nauseated today and having difficulty getting in my liquids...I was just wondering how long will I feel like I've just been punched in the gut?? My stomach feels so tight...like a ball in the middle of me and the thought of eating makes me queezy! I tried an ounce of cream of potato soup earlier..it tasted good but I was very naucious afterwards. I also had to take some medication at the same time which was extremely bitter and wondered if that could be the culprit instad of the soup. I haven't gotten anywhere near my liquids or protiens in .... any advice? Thanks, Kim

Kim: I am 9 months post op and still cannot get in all my water in one day, so you are not alone!! We have all been in your shoes. Try to get your water and protein in first. It may take you over an hour to drink a glass of water, but remember that you are still recovering from surgery and you don't want to push your pouch!! You are doing great Kim, and remember, what you are experiencing is very normal, however, if you have any concerns, the best bet is to call your doctor!

Then don't eat. Just think of it as fluidating. I had trouble with potato soup too. Too much carbs, probably dumping a little on it. Try the cream of chicken or cream of broccoli. You can use chicken noodle blended and strained out too. Eat jello and any other liquid food that you can get down. Good luck, Wendy

Kim, I asked myself that question every day for about the first week out. I wanted to feel normal so bad. But I found that every day got a lil easier. I will say though, be careful about over doing because it will set you back. I totally overdid this whole weekend and I am paying for it now because I am exhausted. But you will notice you will start to feel better as the days progress. About the Nausea, did your doctor give you any meds to help with that? I was sent home with some medicine that is liquid and Boy does it help with the nausea. I have only had it about 3 times. I have found too that the weirdest things will trigger it... Like the steam from the shower!!! LOL So I have to shower with the bathroom door open because being in all that steam makes me queezy. So it is quite possible that the medicine could have brought on a bout with nausea. I will be praying for you that you will be able to feel better soon. Hang in there, it will get better!! Love, Kathy

Hi, Kim. I know the one thing that saved me early on was sugar-free popsicles. They settled my stomach and helped me get in my fluids. I also relied on chicken noodle soup. I would strain it or even blend it early on. Eventually, I could eat it without having to do strain it or blend it. Another thing that helped me get in my fluids, was hot decaf tea. Liquids that were room temp did not settle well with me. So the cold popsicles and the hot tea helped me. (The tea wasn't piping hot, but warmer than room temp!) After surgery, I had a very difficult time doing whey protein. It made me so sick after surgery, but never bothered me before surgery. I had to switch to soy protein powder, but discovered soon afterwards that I am actually allergic to milk. Fortunately, I am far enough out that I can get my protein in through food. I rarely use protein powder anymore. Things will improve. I know that first few weeks I would lay in bed and wonder if I'd ever feel normal again. Well after that third week, I really started feeling a LOT better. Good luck! It may take time, but you'll find what works for you soon! Tina 335/206/150-ish

thanks everyone. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your advice and encouragement. I know I'm just a few days out, but I just want to feel better. I know it will take time, but I think I got more scared after surgery than before. Thanks for putting up with all my questions and anxiety! Kim

Even at 4 years post op, cream of potato soup is one of my worst enemies. Each day will get better. Fluids is the most important now anyway. Congrats on your success!!

Good luck to you am 2 mos 1 week out and it does get a little easier. Just don't push yourself to fast.