Question:
I already have palendromic Rheumatism , raynaud's and borderline Lupus

I have been told I'll have a hard time with these conditions if I have weight loss surgery. The pain now seems to be controled most days with meds. I can't help but think I will be better off 175 lb so so lighter. All the Kaiser Docs say no no no You can just exercise and eat right and lose all the weight you want. I need help to decide what is best Has Anyone had this problem. I am at a loss to know what to do.    — Anne L. (posted on July 2, 2002)

July 2, 2002
Hi Anne, I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia. I am 10 months post-op, open RYN, 101 LBS lost. I weigh 179 to 180 now and I am almost 5' 8. I take Bextra as an antiflamatoid drug, it is new out and suppose to be easier on the stomach. I take Prilosec for my stomach, Prozac to help with pain, my Dr said it helps with the Seratonin levels to help you cope with pain. When I get into a flare I get a steroid injection in my bottom it usually last about 2 to 3 months. When I have just 1 joint that gets inflamed they will give me a cordiszone shot in that joint. My Dr. gave me a Dextra dose steroid pack (Steroid pills) about 3 weeks ago and after 7 days of taking them I ended up with an ulcer, I will not take steroids by mouth anymore. Here is some antifamitoid medications my Rheumatologist said was easier on the stomach; Celebrex, Viox, Mobic, Bextra. I am thrilled I had my Gastric by-pass, I do feel some better, I still have my diseases but before I delt with all the problems of obesity, shortness of breath, couldn't stay on my feet as long, couln't hardly tie my shoes, sweating all the time, thats just a few to mention. Sorry if my spelling is off, its early, I think I have cobb webs in my head this morning. Anne do what you think is best, if I can help please e-mail me.Talk with your gastric by-pass surgeon and see what he saids. (((HUGS)))
   — Kathy H.

July 2, 2002
I have Lupus, Sjogren's and Raynaud's sign. I have lost 80% of my weight, still working on last stubborn 15 pounds. WLS is not a cure, but oh my, the difference loosing weight has made to my joints! I am able to walk up to four miles a day and now do weight training. I have decreased several rx drugs, though I am still on Celebrex. The feeling of well being is what I value most. I would do it again, even though surgery triggered a flare, of course. It took me quite a long time to recover (check out my profile for details) but it was worth it.
   — Bobbi G.

July 2, 2002
I was diagnosed with lupus 3 years ago and since the surgery I have felt great. I am only 4 weeks post op, but have lost 35 pounds and feel the difference!
   — Di B.