Question:
Need more information on Lupus and WLS

My friend has an active case of Lupus and is very much considering WLS. She does however want to hear from anyone who has lupus and had the surgery. She wants to ask questions and needs lots of answers. If anyone can contact her, her name is Cindy and her email address is [email protected]. She would appreciate it very much if you can contact her with specifics. Thanks    — laflagal (posted on February 11, 2002)

February 11, 2002
HI! I ditto that question! funny you should ask, i was going to ask the exact same thing! I too have lupus and would very much like to talk to someone who has it, had the surgery while not in remission. My rhumatologist says its okay..however, she's never had a patient who has done it..so i'm curious for some first hand information!! thanks! my e-mail is [email protected]
   — hdziema

February 11, 2002
My concern would be what meds she might need to take when the Lupus is flaring up. My understanding is that with the RNY steroids and other NSAIDS are not used due to the possibility of gastric bleed. I think this is a question to ask the surgeon possible befor scheduling a consult. Some people on this site with the DS have written that they are able to tale some NSAIDS. I hope things work out for your friend. Kathy
   — [Anonymous]

February 11, 2002
I have active Lupus and I had an RNY on 9/11. It is a big decision and you'll need to work closly with all of your doctors(General,Rheumatologist and Surgeon)to decide if surgery is right for you. Many different factors play into it: what areas of your body are most affected by Lupus, what medications you are taking, your willingness to trade off benifits in some areas with added problems in other areas. My doctors felt that because my Lupus wasn't affecting any major body organs, the surgery would not hurt. I'm allergic to steroids anyway, so have never been able to take them. I do miss my 800mg. of Motrin 4 times a day! BUT... the 98 lbs. I've lost so far has made a significant amount of improvement in my arthritis pain. I take Celebrex, which helps a little and Plaquenil. I also have a nice bottle of Vicodin on hand for the times when the pain is unbearable:) Whether or not to have WLS is a big decision for anybody, for those of us with a chronic illness there are even more factors to consider. My advice is, work closely with your doctors, take your time (I spent 2 years deciding)and pray. Best wishes!
   — Bobbie B.

February 11, 2002
I have lupus also and am one year post op. If anyone has any questions, feel free to email me. Jane in IND [email protected]
   — Jane A.

May 27, 2003
Hi....I'm a lupus patient and scheduled for RNY on 9/9/03. My biggest concern is not being able to take my NSAID....but if I can take Vioxx or Celebrex, I'm a happy camper! Let me know if anyone has any experiences to share regarding NSAIDs.....Shelly
   — Shelly E.