Question:
I am 3 years out.

I Have this pain about 3 inchs above my belly button and severe swelling. I just changed jobs and have no insurance I am in alot of pain and look like I am about 4 months pregant. I had open RNY and then a follow up hernia repair a year latter. What should I do? Im so scared!I cough or even take a deep breath and I feel like Im going to pass out.    — Anne Combs (posted on July 16, 2007)

July 16, 2007
I am sorry you are going through that. I would definitely go to the ER to get checked out since you do not have insurance now. It sounds like maybe another hernia but you will never know until you get checked out. I hope you get to feeling better really soon.
   — Cira S.

July 16, 2007
You can check to see if there is a county clinic in your area. They charge you by what you make on a monthly basis. Good luck!
   — crystalsno

July 16, 2007
Go to your ER ASAP. no use messing with your health just because you don't have insurance. Most hospitals offer programs for free care if you qualify. Just ask them about it when they register you, and they should be able to help you fill out the forms. Or they may charge on a sliding fee scale. No hospital can refuse to treat you in an emergency though. Good luck
   — enjo4

July 16, 2007
Anne, you need to see a doctor, you know this. Please go. I don't know when your insurance kicks in, but you should at least call your surgeon. This could be another hernia, or another complication, or not related at all to your wls. I know you are anxious about the insurance, but you need to be seen. Take care. Patricia P.
   — Patricia P

July 18, 2007
Do you have a primary care doctor? The way I see it, you can either call your PCP or go to the ER. You definitely need to get checked out. If you've been with the same PCP for awhile, see if they are willing to do a payment plan or even write it off. As for the ER, they have to treat you and stabilize you whether you have health insurance or not. Many hospitals have programs for people with low income--in my state it is called free care and pays 100% of the bill. Please get checked out and let us know how you are!!!
   — mrsidknee