Question:
I had a lap-RNY 5 days ago

I have pain in my abdomin on the left side mainly, under left breast down to waist when I take deep breathes or use my breathing machine. It almost feels like I pulled a muscle from something. Could this just be trapped gas, which I know I still have or just from the surgery itself? Thanks, cheryl    — cherby56 (posted on March 31, 2003)

March 31, 2003
That pain could be you reinflating that left lung. My understanding is that during lap Rny your left lung is partialy collapsed and that is probaby what that pain is from. I had it too. Make sure to keep using the machine and keep taking deep breaths. I found that if I sat up straight and arched my back or leaned back a little it was easier to take a deep breath. I was obsessed with that breathing thingy and did it all the time. 10 times an hour and I felt like I could breath normally again at about 5 days to a week out. If you are concerned or scared at all then call your doctor to rule out anything more serious.
   — Carol S.

March 31, 2003
Cheryl, this could also be because of your stomach muscle. During the surgery the muscles were cut and from what I hear the left side is the most painful. I don't know if that is where mainly the muscles lie or if its bigger, but my surgeon told me this is common to have more pain there. And from what I've heard on this site, it is pretty common, so I wouldn't worry too much about it. Sorry you're in pain though- feel better!
   — Lezlie Y.

March 31, 2003
Cheryl, I'd ask the doctor. It sounds like gas, but I'd be safe and ask his/her opinion. Does it feel like it travels when you walk? Sometimes trapped gas will travel and for some unknown reason gets stuck near the shoulder blade. It can almost feel like you're having a really bad gallbladder attack. Good luck
   — Diane S.