Question:
Do You Have Bowel Problems While Sleeping?

I have a very good friend who contacted me today. She had WLS several months ago and to quote her "she has had a storybook experience" except for one issue. While she is sleeping the muscles in her bowels evidently relax and she is having accidents while sleeping. Other than suggesting she wear adult diapers, do you have any ideas what might cause this and how to resolve it? I know this is an awkward question but I feel like she can't be the only person in the world to ever experience this. Any suggestions? Thanks alot!    — ronascott (posted on April 14, 2002)

April 14, 2002
First of all, she should check in with her physician about this. They should be able to tell her whether or not this is normal. While I do not have this problem myself (I am three months post-op), I have had times where I had to RUN to the bathroom. I find it is related to my food consumption. Too much fat or sugar may cause this. There are also foods one can eat that help firm up the bowels. I believe that bananas are supposed to be good for this. Good luck to your friend. I am sure she can resolve this.
   — Cathy C.

April 14, 2002
First of all, she's NOT the only person who has experienced this so please tell her she's not alone. I run to the bathroom much more at night and I suppose it's because dinner has settled and my muscles relax. I do remember one time where I thought I had gas and well....suffice it to say that I had to wake my hubby up and change the sheets. I honestly have no answer for her though because I am going through alot of problems lately that most postops don't seem to have at all. I'm on numerous meds but..maybe her doc can prescribe and antispasmatic med for nighttime for her. Please tell her to write me personally if she needs to.
   — Barbara H.