Question:
Do you experience strange pain or sensation due to lack of protein? (Long...sorry)

Hi All, I'm 17 months post-op and I've noticed that when I haven't had enough protein I get a very strange sensation just below my rib-cage. I know that its due to lack of protein because on the days when I KNEW I hadn't had quite enough, I got this "not nice" sensation. I almost feel hollow. I can feel it from the front and back. Its not a good feeling. I make sure to get protein RIGHT AWAY and it stops immediately. Well, today I wasn't able to get to enough protein (my bars didn't help) before this feeling progressed to full-blown out-right unbareable PAIN! Oh my goodness! I'm in downtown LA, trying to walk to my car, bent over, stopping every few feet and praying out loud. Thank GOD my husband is temporarily working in the very next block. i had to call him (leaving wk 1 hr early) and tell him I was in trouble and needed him to buy "meat" ANY MEAT and meet me at the car right away. And guess what...after eating chicken for about 20mins...it went away. Has ANYONE experienced this? Please help, I'm desperate to know.    — Babs B. (posted on August 17, 2004)

August 17, 2004
Sounds like you need to get to a Gastro Dr. or someone to check for ulcers or other problems.When I had my old stomach mine would do that when I was empty amd the acid would burn the ulcers. Don't know if our new stomach would be the same or not.
   — Frances N.

August 17, 2004
It would be odd if it was the actuall lack of protein causing this as the protein wouldn't be assimilated by the body in 20 minutes. It's probably something else, but eating protein relieves the symptoms. Only your doc will be able to tell you for sure. Major pain is never anything to fool around with, especially as a post-op. I would check w/ your doc.
   — mom2jtx3

August 18, 2004
Dr. Owens did my surgery 17 months ago and I wouldn't hesitate to call their office and ask about your symptoms. We are about the same distance post-op and if this were happening to me, I'd be concerned. They are there to help you. Please call.
   — Vicki S.

August 18, 2004
Barbara, I'm 3 years out & I too experiance the pain that starts under the ribs in the front & then goes around to the back & I it takes my breath away. My dr said it is Acid Reflux (didn't have b-4 surgery) & if I take Zantec at the first sign of pain it goes away in minutes. BUT you need to also speak with your dr & see if it is the same thing. Good luck to you ~ Cindi
   — stinkynelson1

August 18, 2004
Thanks so much for the feedback everyone. I called and have an appointment with Dr. Owens tomorrow afternoon. I NEVER want to experience that again.
   — Babs B.

August 19, 2004
Ok...say my surgeon today and guess what? ...he thinks its my gallbladder. I have to schedule an ultrasound at the hospital tomorrow and he wants to see me back in 2 weeks. If I have to have it removed, he can do it laproscopically. About 4 wks of recovery! I have a lift, augmentation and tummy tuck scheduled for early November! I don't understand why, if they say MOST people have these problems post-op,...why not remove them at the time of surgery? This is more cost, more time, and more pain. I'm still very happy I had WLS, but man...I'm just for avoiding the unnecessary stuff. Thanks for your support everyone. I really appreciate it.
   — Babs B.