Question:
Has anyone developed allergy to certain foods after surgery?

I use to have Seafood Gumbo before surgery with no problem. Now I find that when I eat it I break out in hives.    — Wendy M. (posted on May 29, 2002)

May 22, 2003
I can relate to your food issue. I used to be able to eat lots of dairy products, but found that after surgery I became lactose intolerant and have to take lactaid or drink milk without lactose. I can't really handle ice cream even if I take the lactaid--it literally makes me sick to my stomach. Also, I have to be careful of anything too spicy. I've found that if I have too much tomato based foods that I break out in a rash. This was a minor problem prior to surgery, but found it to get worse after surgery. I was told that each person reacts differently toward food following surgery. What one food may work for one person, may not work at all for another. Have you checked with your doctor about the hives? One thing I've found is that taking Benedryl can help with hives/rashes. Maybe taking this would allow you to eat the Gumbo without reaction. But, I would check with a physician first. Good Luck & Take Care! Andrea Harrington Lap-RNY 12/00--138lbs. lost
   — Andrea H.

May 22, 2003
Yep, I too developed food allergies after surgery. Prior to surgery I could eat shellfish with no problem, but now I swell up and get agonizing cramps if I try even one bite of any shellfish. I figure it's worth it. I don't miss it all that much although I did really like lobster and crab and shrimp and . . . oh well, I'd rather be 275 pounds lighter. By the way, my doctor can offer no reason as to why this has happened or if it will ever go away in the future.
   — Traci H.

May 2, 2005
I know that it's been awhile since anyone posted an answer to this, but I just happened across it and wanted to add my 2 cents worth. I also found myself lactose intolorant post op-all except for hard cheeses. I must watch out for spices-anything mild and above is a no-no. My stomach just roars with flames. We don't eat mexican food anymore, unless I make it. I've also been one who drinks alot of tea and water anyway. But now I am dehydrated most of the time. I always have a bottle in my hand and still have trouble doing my blood work ups at the lab. It's been almost 9 yrs post op now. Good luck, Cheryl
   — molly1226