Question:
Is IBS really common in WLS patients or is it just me?

I was told a couple months ago that I may have IBS. I have noticed many members on this website tend to have it. What exactly causes it? Do you think WLS surgery helps contribute to its cause? What helps it once you have it? Is it something that can be cured? Thanks in advance for your input :) 372/168/154    — Kelly M. (posted on May 20, 2004)

May 20, 2004
I am over 3 years post and just got diagnosed with IBS a couple months ago. I started having symptoms about six months post op. It's pretty much been a living hell the past two years with this problem! I can't go anywhere,I am constipated and bloat with bad gas for days. I'm not sure if it has to do with surgery but considering I never had problems with it before hand I personally think its connected.
   — Vel K.

May 20, 2004
I had IBS for about twelve years before I had WLS and somewhere around one year out it finally stopped. So, chicken or egg? Nina in Maine
   — [Deactivated Member]

May 20, 2004
I was diagnosed with IBS about 15 years before my RNY. My entire life seemed to revolve around how close I was to a bathroom :-) The IBS completely disappeared as soon as I had the RNY. I am now over 4 years post-op, and have never had a recurrence. Some of my friends who chose DS surgery had an increase in "bowel symptoms", especially diarrhea or loose stools and excessive, foul-smelling gas. Their new bowel symptoms resemble IBS but their surgeons tell them that this is a frequent side-effect of DS surgery specifically related to increased malabsorption. You didn't state which type of WLS that you have had, but it may be helpful to discuss your issue with your WLS surgeon. If this is truly IBS, I understand that there are some new medications on the market now that are very helpful, so your PCP could guide you in that direction. Best wishes!
   — Diana T.

May 20, 2004
I can relate to Diane below, my life also used to revolve around where the nearest bathroom was- Being from Rural Vermont, I need to drive long distances to get anywhere special, I would know EVERY SINGLE place with a bathroom along my route- which stores would let me use it- etc...It was NO fun- since having WLS, I am "cured" This has been a blessing in MORE WAYS THEN ONE !!!
   — WABBIT F.

May 20, 2004
I had battled IBS for years until I finially went to the doctor . What contributes to it are your diet, fatty foods and stress. Not drinking enough water to keep the bowel soft leads to hard stools and constipation. Iwent on Zelnorm for it and did great on it I would say I had problems 1-2 times a week compared to everyday . But now I have not taken my zelnorm for 2 months since having the surgery and 40 pounds later. hope this helps
   — christina G.

May 20, 2004
I had IBS long before I had RNY. Most of the time since I had RNY it's under control. When it's not, it's usually my own fault because I'm not adhering to enough fiber or partaking of dairy, nuts, or any of the other no-nos. As long as I manage my stress and watch what I eat, staying away from the stuff that causes flare-ups, I do just fine.
   — Cathy S.

May 21, 2004
If it helps to get another perspective... I don't personally know anyone who has IBS as a result of WLS. I do know 2 women who have it from support groups, however, they had it pre-surgery.
   — LMCLILLY

January 22, 2005
I've had IBS off and on for years. The stress of WLS set mine off again and I have progressively had to add meds to try to control it as well as Benefiber 3X's/day and Miralax 1 X/day! I'm fine until late afternoon and evening and then just MISERABLE! Wish they'd come up with something to help...I love the results of the WLS otherwise but I sure could do with some days of no abdominal cramping.-Rusty 260/136
   — Rusty2