Ask Dr. Curry

It's really hard to predict - most band patients can swallow just about any pill, but sometimes not.  It depends on how tight you are.

HI Dr. Curry! I have pancolitis and take four Lialda pills/day.  I am wondering, after having called my GI's office today, if I can still take the Lialda?  I was told there is no liquid or other suggested med as this is what is working for me to maintain remission.  Have you worked with other patients with UC and what meds?  I was told I could possibly cut them in half, but they would still be at least twice the size of an aspirin. Please advise and thanks!

If you can cut them in half without affecting their absorption (ask your pharmacist) then your chances are a lot better of tolerating them.

Hi Dr Curry! I had my lapband done Monday, Jun 16.  I have not had a whole lot of pain, but the pain I have had has been in the area of my three most superior incisions (upper abdomen/chest area).  Those pains were dull and deep, mostly when getting up/down.  Since yesterday, I have been having a few very sharp pains near my incision close to my bellybutton.  The pains can be triggered by the slightest movement of my leg or abdomen. And I do mean the slightest movement!  They don't last long, apprx 20 sec, but when they hit they really hurt.  It is a burning, pulling type pain.  Sorta like your popping a stitch, and it is a superficial type pain.  My incision looks fine;  no evidence of opening, etc.  Is this normal or do I need to call my MD>?  Thanks for the help! Leslie

I would always advise you to call your MD if you are having pain out of the ordinary.

Hi Dr. Curry - is becoming Lactose Intolerant following the lap band a common occurance, and is it related to being banded?  If so, what causes this to happen? Thank you.

I have not seen it, but I really don't poll my patients to ask them so I'm not sure - maybe we could have some patient input here?

I am 5 weeks out from surgery and overall am doing pretty well. My incisions and puncture sites all appear to be nicely healed, but earlier this week I noticed what appears to be a stitch sticking out of my port incision. I looked at my other sites and sure enough it appears to be happening on 2 of my other sites. I am not an alarmist and don't want to rush to see my surgeon....is this normal?

Help! I had my Lap Band June 16 and all went well except I still eat! I did liquid then some noodles from the noodle soup chewed very well and today some mac and cheese chewed and chopped. Am I stretching my new stomach? I am so scared I am such a food addict that I have ruined this procedure already! Please help with advice! Pippida

Your band should be just about empty now, so it won't be providing you with much (if any) restriction.  So you have to go about it the hard way until your fill - portion control and exercise!