Question:
I'm 6 1/2 years out of RNY with severe stomach pain/buring

I have pain that radiates from front to back, high up above the bottom of the ribs. Don't laugh, but I can only describe it as the worlds worst hunger pains. Pain meds last for a while, or eating something sometimes helps but it can't possibly be hunger. Can wake me up out of a sound sleep. Never know when it will strike and it sometimes makes concentrating on work nearly impossible. Other than that no complications at all and have lost 150lbs, but now, with the pain and the constant snacking to sooth the pain I am creeping up a few pounds which is driving me NUTS. Anyone experince the same and can you tell me what it is and how to avoid or resolve it? Thanks!!!    — Deborah W. (posted on January 29, 2003)

January 29, 2003

   — MaryCinFL

January 29, 2003
I agree with the other answer. Check your gallbladder. I had severe gall stones for about 2 1/2 months before I finally went to my lady doctor and asked for a sonogram on my gall bladder. I haven't had the surgery yet, but gall stones was the first thing I thought of by your description. It won't hurt to check it out though! Good luck
   — jovialkiki

January 29, 2003
Hi Deborah! I had a friend with the same exact symptoms you described and it turned out to be an ulcer. The gnawing hunger pain feeling is a classic symptom and the fact that is relived temporarily by eating food is also a symptom. (My friend could get instant relief from a glass of milk or a slice of bread, but the relief didn't last long) I really suggest you call the Dr. and see if you can get an upper GI or a endoscopy to check it out. Good luck and God bless!
   — karenrose

January 29, 2003
Deborah, it sounds like an ulcer. The pain radiating through to the back is a significant sign of gall bladder disease, though. See your doctor as soon as you can.
   — NitaE

January 29, 2003
WOW.. You sound like me when my gall bladder was acting up.
   — Beffy W.