Question:
HELP!!! I am Concerned...Diarrhea

Hello everyone, This is a very serious-embarrasing question. I am several years out from wls and I have a problem with pretty constant diarrea. I only really get diarrea when I eat high fat or sugar. But I have a hard time controlling that eating. I am doing very well in the weight loss department, but I have terrible pain in my "rear". I don't want to ask a doctor because I am scared. I don't know if there are any post op nurses out there or docs, who read this list who might respond, but can I get some kind of colon/rectal cancer or problem from constant diarrea. Is this something to WORRY about. I have serious pain in that area and I have tried Prep-H suppos. and they sort of help. I am trying to get my food under control, but it is hard. I guess I am just looking for some reassurance. Thanks to anyone who may respond...    — Allison Mupas (posted on June 6, 1999)

June 6, 1999
cancer generally is not painful...it sounds more like anusitis.. anal inflamation.....have you tried bulk laxative??? sometimes that will slow intestines down but try to eliminate irritants.....hope this helps.........
   — [Anonymous]

June 6, 1999
Alison, There's an acronym that helps to remind us how to control diarhea; B.R.A.T. which stands for BANANA - RICE- APPLESAUCE - TOAST. Diarhea is not a matter of consistency, but of frequency. If you find yourself having several BM's a day and they will tend to be loose if they are frequent then if you are on a normal diet try eating one of all of the above mentioned foods to help check the diarhea. Rich
   — Richard T.

June 6, 1999
You're experiencing "dumping syndrom" from not eating the proper types of foods. Most post-ops cannot tolerate high fat, high sugar foods and the side affects of the diareah,sweats, sped up heart rate, etc., are usually a great deterent. I don't know anything of the medical risks, but WLS is only a tool, if you continue to eat as you normally did .. you're going to eventually start gaining all your weight back. Perhaps some counselling with an eating disorders specialist might be helpful to help you work out your emotions which is likely what is triggering the eating. You need to follow your doctors advice and the type of menus he/she must've provided at the time of surgery.
   — Sherrie G.

June 7, 1999
hi, i am not a doctor, but i have known people who have gotten a thing called "anal fissures" and they are very painful and have to be lanced (gross but instant releif) by a doctor and put on antibiotics ...go to the doctor...common problem..they are used to it. good luck!
   — Babs K.