Post Op questions???????

Hello, I am 3 1/2 weeks post op and am concerned about the fact that I haven't pooped in a week! I realize that it likely won't be a daily thing due to the drastic decrease in food volume going in, but seven days?!? Also, I've lost 25 pounds in almost 4 weeks. Is this weight loss pretty consistent with other people? I must admit, its pretty awesome to lose 5 pounds in a week!!! I had surgery in Mexico and have been harassing the program coordinator to help me with some paperwork for short term disability insurance (that I forgot to take with me) and I hate to email them with something that doesn't seem to be a really big deal. Yes, I know that this is one of the draw backs to having surgery in Mexico. I'm going to see my PCP in a couple of weeks for a checkup, but would welcome any input from the board. Has anyone used laxatives or spoke with their surgeons about laxatives? You know, if I could ever go to the bathroom, I bet I'd have a better one month post op weight! Ha! :0) I seem to finally be getting the hang of the meal size that I can eat without feeling bad and if I could just get my energy level up, It would be like a never even had surgery. Thanks! Victoria

I was told if I didn't go after 3 days take Milk of Magnesia. And don't let yourself go over 3 days without something. And make sure you get in your water and that may get things going on a regular basis. I was told by our health food store guy who works with our doctor and hospital that later on some people take benefiber because its clear and disolves in water to keep them regular. I'm nearly 3 weeks out and I still have regular bowel movements. And sublingual B12 has helped my energy level tremendously. Check it out with you doc's if you can email them and good luck.

thanks, Jennifer! I think I will get some milk of mag in the am. How much weight have you lost? I was really hoping for more than 25 pounds. I know the whole thing about I didn't put it on overnight so I shouldn't expect it to come off overnight....blah, blah, blah. BUT, hoping and expecting are two different things and quite frankly, I would have loved to have awakened skinny! I went to walgreens as soon as I got home and bought flinstone chewables and sublingual b-12 (I've been taking them both for a week now). thanks again! victoria

Try benefiber, it will dissolve in whatever you drink and does not taste horrible. I was constipated the first couple of months. When you increase your food intake some and get some fiber is that will help a lot.

Victoria, I take one over the counter stool softener everyday....I take the equate brand and don't have a problem with not being regular. You might consider adding one to your daily vitamin schedule. Take care and you're doing great...I lost 25 lbs at 4 weeks as well so I think you're doing awesome. Kelli