Question:
Can a Firefighter rehydrate adequately post op?

With a small pouch, is it possible to rehydrate as necessary when becoming overheated after fighting a fire? I was asked this question and can't answer it. Any Firefighters out there have RNY wls? Do tell!    — LauraA (posted on May 4, 2006)

May 4, 2006
Well, I can't answer that question as directly as you probably need, however I will say that it likely depends on the person and the surgeon. I ended up with a larger pouch than most, so right off the bat I was able to drink with seemingly no restriction whatsoever. I am 2+ years post op and have never felt "full" of liquid. I can drink seemingly unlimited amounts, however, that being said, I'm not a huge water drinker either. Some doctors create micro pouches and smaller stomas. This could present a challenge for someone right out of surgery, but I'm not sure if it's an issue later down the line after everything heals up and relaxes. If you have a particularly small stoma, it will empty slower, and I know that at least right out of surgery some people have had trouble drinking their protein because they can't drink that fast. Me, again, I never had a problem. Upon release from surgery I drank a 16 oz bottle of water w/my protein drink about as quick as I could pre-surgery. I hope that helps a little. Hopefully you'll hear from someone with direct knowledge of this. If not, check out the forums - there should be one for firefighters. That would be the place to go. :) Dina
   — Dinka Doo

May 4, 2006
early on its a big problem for everyone, getting in enough liquids. I think they may be put on light duty for awhile. By 3 months the swelling is gone and you can drink nearly normal amounts of water, on a continious basis. They should direct this question to their surgeon, but no I dont believe its a long term issue.
   — bob-haller

May 5, 2006
Drinking water or any iquid was never much of a problem for me. After two weeks, I was able to drink almost as fast as pre surgery. It does depend on the the individual person and how big the pouch opening is I guess. Af 11 mounts out, I can drink with no problem whatsoevr. Karen
   — KRWaters

May 5, 2006
There is a forum for firefighters that you may want to visit on this site. Copy this link http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/members/members-interested-in.php?i=332 into your browser and maybe someone there can help you with your question.
   — ChristineB