Question:
Six days out, and HUNGRY.

My husband had lap band surgery 6 days ago,and is constantly having hunger pains, with very loud stomache growling noises. He's still on stage 3, low fat full liquids, and will be for next 2 wks. IS THIS NORMAL, to be so hungry ? Will he have to fight to controll his hunger forever?    — barbara K. (posted on October 6, 2002)

October 6, 2002
It sounds like your husband is experiencing head hunger. The growling is normal after surgery. When you are on liquids and pureed food you do not have the roughage to help eliminate trapped gas. Sugar Free jello helps with cravings.
   — Sue A.

October 6, 2002
I thought I was starving to death for about two weeks after my surgery. I would go and cry alone for hours because I was so upset that I was sooo hungry! Everyone told me it was "head hunger" but I did not believe them. I actually still don't even now. I know what real hunger feels like, and I was living it. After about 2 weeks, it completely past and now I have to make myself eat most of the time. It does get better...thank goodness! The part of his stomach that is growling, will stop soon too. Basically, we went from feeding our bodies all the time, to completely stopping, it is quite a shock! Tell him to hang in there. It really will pass. And as soon as he can start eating solids again...he will feel so much better. Good Luck! (open RNY 7/23/02 -60lbs)
   — Shawnie S.

October 6, 2002
Becasue you were only banded six days ago, you haven't had a fill yet. MANY lap banders don't get any restriction without a fill or 2 (or 3...). Only a lucky few have restriction without a fill. So, in other words, there's nothing to worry about. Just go thru your liquids and mush stages as per you doctor's instructions, and in 6 or more weeks you can get a fill. It may take a few fills to get proper restriction. Don't worry!! you're both doing fine.
   — Patricia E.