Question:
Diaphragmatic hernia ? Has anyone been diagnosed after surgery with this?

Hi, I am 4 years post op this March. I have been complaing for years of all the symptons of my internal hernia called, diaphragmatic hernia. Finally 7 months into my second preganacy a Cat-scan showed my large intestines have infact pushed through the diaphram and is pushing against my lungs. It makes breathing difficult. It is extremely painful and nasuating at times. Surgery is neccesary but compromised due to preganacy so I need to eat soft foods and lots of liquids to prevent obstructon in the bowel which could strangulate and be deadly. Has anyone else experienced this? My new team of surgeons believe this happened during surgery 4 years ago in error?    — Elizabeth A. (posted on March 14, 2008)

March 14, 2008
WOW -- That's a tough one. Whether or not this occurred because of your surgery 4 years ago is not important right now. Blame can be placed later for the cause. Women who are obese prior to their first pregnancy are at an increased risk for experiencing this phenomenon. Right now, the priority is on you and your baby's health and well being, especially considering the risk of strangulation to your baby. Being diagnosed with this condition along with being a WLS patient puts in the high-risk pregnancy category. It's extremely important that you stay in close contact with your team of providers and that they share information between one another. You may also want to consider developing a response plan with them in the even of an after hours situation so you will always be prepared. The good news is that you are almost full term and this will be behind you soon. I would imagine your doc's have you on restrictive bed rest, so stick to that. I wish you the very best of luck and health and wellness. Feel free to shoot me a message anytime.
   — TheBestMaxEver

March 14, 2008
You are in my thoughts and prayers, Elizabeth. Do exactly what the docs tell you and just hang in there. ((((HUGS)))) Pat
   — pjennjr