Question:
Aren't you constantly running to the bathroom?

I am a software trainer and when I'm teaching a class I find it hard to get my water in because I can't run to the bathroom every 20 minutes. (I'm not exagerating that's how often I have to go when I drink the amount of water I'm suppose to) I am currently pre-op, but I was wondering if post-op, anyone one else has this problem. How do you deal?    — Kimberly J. (posted on July 2, 2003)

July 2, 2003
My routine is to drink when I'm driving HOME, vs going out. I have a large container with a straw (straw not recommended right after surgery)and drink 56 oz going home and when I'm home drink the rest. You might want to limit your intake when your working and beef it up when you're home.
   — ZZ S.

July 2, 2003
Well you sound like me, but I will tell you so the Docs tell me it is because of my weight that I have frequent urination.....hopefully it will get better when the weight starts comming off......:)
   — Saxbyd

July 2, 2003
I've been told that if you drank your water consistently you wouldn't be urinating as much as those of us who try to get our water in only sporadically. As for drinking a bunch of water all at once, that sounds like a bad idea to me. They told me that you can certainly stretch your stomach back out, and chugging that much water sounds like a good way to get into trouble. Every 20 minutes sounds like there is something more going on - either you have a UTI or overactive bladder. After a different surgery my doctor gave me a medication called "Urispas" that told my brain to ignore the signals from the bottom of my bladder saying I needed to go - only listen when the signals from the top of my bladder started complaining - I only had to take the med for a month and my nerves/brain somehow rewired, and now I only go every couple hours instead of every half hour like you mentioned. The doc said that doesn't happen with all patients, but with most, and luckily I was one of them. I literally couldn't go on a trip because we'd have to stop constantly - with the pills I didn't have to stop at all, just about the same as the others in the car.
   — bethybb

July 2, 2003
As a trainer myself - I understand your concerns. As a post-op though, I can tell you, after your body adjusts to the water, you won't have to go as much. I average 75 oz of water per day (aiming for 50 before lunch) and typically have to use the bathroom twice in the morning, and twice in the afternoon. So I would say - start upping the water now, so your body can adjust over time. One other thing - if I eat something that doesn't agree with Princess (my pouch) she will tell me all about it. So I am VERY careful about my lunch choices while I'm in class. Good luck to you. And see your doctor if you continue to have to pee every 20 mins.
   — Kelly V.

July 2, 2003
Well I used to be running to the bathroom a lot prior to surgery. I thought I had a weak bladder, but since having surgery I have come to the conclusion that the extra weight somehow must have put more pressure on my bladder. I don't have to go nearly as often as I used to - seems like I can hold it longer without becoming uncomfortable.
   — Barbara C.

July 2, 2003
Original poster - Thanks guys, your feedback is very much appreciated!
   — Kimberly J.

July 2, 2003
If your diabetic re op it should improve dramatically post op since blood sugars will be greatly improved.
   — bob-haller