Band Issues (Not a good quality of life)

Hi there, I was curious to hear from other people about issues with their band.  I have had mine now for just over three years and I had hit my hundred pound lost last spring but still need at least another 100 to go but am having a hard time losing anymore.  Eating has become someting I do not look forward to as usually after the first bite no matter how mushy i make it I get the feeling I am stuck.  If I try another bite I am in the bathroom waiting to puke up all the phlem my mouth is creating.  After about half an hour whether I vomit or it does pass I can eat no problem, just in time to leave the restruant as everyone else has finished eating  I don't even sit down with my husband and boys for meals as I will get stuck..  But there aqre times when I eat when I have no problem.  This has happened from about 6 months post op and has not impoved.  I know when I am too tight and this happens even when I am not at my "sweet spot".  I was just wondering if any one else has experienced this or am I the only one dealing with this.  If I am really hungry I have turned to liquids (usually resorting to boost, shakes, or smoothies or on the bad side fast food shakes and icecream just to feel satisified.  If anyone else has experieinced this please let me know.  I am grateful for the weight I have lost with the band but I am thinking I will need to revert to maybe the grastric bypass surgery for continued success.

 Always my first question: have you been to see your surgeon?

I have had that from time to time...Usually for me it is when I haven't eaten anything all day and I am really hungry.  I eat too fast.  I find now that whether or not I am hungry that my first 5-6 bites MUST be REALLY small and I have to sit a minute or two before bites.  After the first few bites I can feel my band almost "relax" and then I can continue eating normally.  I think it is called first bite syndrome....

Some of the folks I have known with first bite syndrome find it helpful to begin the meal with a warm drink before attempting to eat anything solid. have you tried that approach?

I have that same thing. It's almost like I have to "prime" my esophogas for the meal. I still have times when I take my meal home from the restaurant. I'd rather deal with it than be over 300lbs again.

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Thanks!!!

I just approved you, now go forth and read

 Yes, I've been having this happen even though my band is now empty.

That sucks, it wouldn't bother me so much if the pain and discomfort didnt' come along with it and if it gave me warning it was happening but it happens after the first bite so I am screwed no matter what.  I actually have mine filled but my husband keeps saying I should go and have some removed as it is a struggle to eat some days.