I would love to report all positive things in this post but the fact of the matter is that you are probably looking for the truth and that is why you are out there searching sites regarding this surgery. I want you to know, before you read further that each person is different and each surgery is different. Please take with you what you have learned and use it as an average only. Do not think that everything that each person reports will be what happens to you.
Here's the most recent in my saga. I have lost 170 pounds since I had the surgery back in August of 2009. I am ecstatic with the results. This number could be bigger and will be when I decide to stop being lazy and exercise more, which will hopefully be sooner than later. I have been at a plateau for several months now. But my weight doesn't fluctuate more than 5 pounds.
My eating habits have slipped. I eat chocolate now and I can keep down just about any type of food. I just watch my portions. My stomach has expanded and I feel I can eat more like 2-3 cups of food at a time. What I eat now is about a third or fourth of what I used to eat when I was 170 pounds larger. I now weight 230 and hope to lose another 60 pounds.
I have been having issues lately that I would like to share. It started in a month and a half ago. I was at work and started having chest pain. It was difficult to breathe deep. It wasn't extreme so I relaxed for a few minutes. It didn't go away so I ended up taking a trip to the emergency room. They drew some blood and took a chest x-ray and determined it was stress related. A week or two later I started getting pains in my stomach. I'm pretty stubborn and figured I was sick and it would go away. It continued over time off and on and became more frequent. It was in the center of my stomach above my belly button, on the left lower quadrant and on the right under my rib and occasionally it affected my back. I went to my primary physician. It was under his advisement that I make an appointment with a surgeon to have my gallbladder checked.
I saw the surgeon and he took blood work and ordered an ultrasound. I have not gotten the results yet. The surgeon that I saw said he didn't think it sounded like a gallbladder issue. He thought I may have stones but did not want to consider removing the gallbladder if that was not the true issue because it would not make the current issues improve and could actually make it worse. He referred me back to my original bariatric surgeon to review the results (which were to rule out the gallbladder and stones) and check, perhaps by upper endoscopy to see if I have a stricture in my esophagus. He stated that occasionally, after this type of surgery the valve that leads into the stomach becomes lodged open and food and stomach acid may shoot back up the esophagus causing acid reflux, ulcers and/or hernias. There could also be the narrowing that I spoke of. They would correct that by inserting a balloon and expanding it to open the narrowed area. The final thing he thinks is a possibility is food being lodged in my esophagus, although I can't imagine that would not correct itself on it's own.
So I am currently in a holding pattern due to the holidays. I will report back with the results after January 5, 2011. Until then, I have pains in my chest daily, sometimes several times a day that can range from a mild discomfort to pain that stops me in my tracks and feels like what I would relate to as a heart attack. This pain doesn't always happen just after eating. Sometimes it occurs an hour or so after eating and even when I drink water. It seems to have subsided somewhat in severity over the past few days and I'm hoping it stays this way. I still have the pains in my stomach and sometimes it is accompanied by nausea.
As I stated, this may or may not happen to you. However, you should be familiar with the symptoms of gallbladder issues and be aware that a good number of Gastric Bypass patients eventually lose their gallbladder at some point after their surgery. It is one organ that has a difficult time dealing with the rapid and extreme weight loss. Being aware of the symptoms will ensure you get the proper treatment faster. Faster is very important when dealing with pain.
If you have had the surgery and you no longer have your gallbladder, or have had the symptoms described, please feel free to comment and share your experiences.
Best wishes to all!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Emotional Changes
It seems as more time goes by I realize the changes I've gone through, not only in my appearance but in my personality.
It's now been 10 months since the surgery. Some people who are considering the surgery may have questions about what to expect emotionally. Although it will differ for everyone, I feel that if I share my experiences, perhaps it will give a hint of what could be.
Before the surgery, I was an outgoing person but I felt trapped. I loved talking to people but there were times I would judge myself before they got the chance to and I would shut down. I felt that people were constantly judging me. My friends at times would interrupt my conversations and talk over me like I wasn't there. It was difficult when I did leave the house to go places with the kids. I had to talk myself into everything I did. I loved the beach but it was a nightmare of humiliation for me. The amusement parks were torcher. I loved the coasters but I was too big to ride. I stayed away from friends, people who once meant the world to me because I was ashamed of what I had become on the outside. My life was boring and full of doubt and hope for the future. I felt like I had no life. I certainly didn't feel like I had any quality of life.
So much has changed. It is hard to keep up with everything at times. The loss happened so fast that I think I'm still getting used to the new me. I have a great deal more confidence which has allowed me to enjoy going places with my teen boys without feeling like an embarrassment to them. Their friends interact with me and treat me with respect. I've recently ridden the coasters and was grateful to be able to remember how much I enjoyed them. We have had spur of the moment friend gatherings that are amazing. I feel like I can finally relax in my own skin and be myself. Even family gatherings bring less anxiety. I don't have to talk myself into going somewhere, I just go. I don't have to worry about finding the nearest parking spot or how far I'll have to walk to get to where I'm going. Eliminating all those thoughts and fears have been the greatest weight lost. It frees up time and room for healthier self talk. When I'm with those same friends, they don't talk over me or cut me off. I have their respect and what I have to say seems to matter more. I know that's wrong of people to do that but it's how people are. I treat myself better and respect myself more which has made a huge difference. I feel like I am even more outgoing and I have been able to reconnect with my old friends with confidence and actually enjoy myself without judging myself or expecting others to do the same.
I feel like the person I was as a teenager. My personality is back and I look forward to each day instead of dreading it.
The physical aspects that have changed have also given me confidence. I recently ran up 3 flights of stairs and was not out of breath. These were the same 3 flights of stairs that I used to have to stop on 3/4 of the way to the top because I couldn't breathe and my chest felt like it was on fire. That is not just a physical change. Imagine the emotional high that gave me!
I am happier, I stick up for myself when I need to without feeling guilty, I love more, I play more, I respect myself more.
It has been an amazing journey and I wouldn't trade it for the world. It has given me my life back.
I still have moments where I forget that I am this renewed person. I still have anxiety and feel like people judge me but it is few and far between compared to the minute by minute feelings I used to have.
Life is good.
It's now been 10 months since the surgery. Some people who are considering the surgery may have questions about what to expect emotionally. Although it will differ for everyone, I feel that if I share my experiences, perhaps it will give a hint of what could be.
Before the surgery, I was an outgoing person but I felt trapped. I loved talking to people but there were times I would judge myself before they got the chance to and I would shut down. I felt that people were constantly judging me. My friends at times would interrupt my conversations and talk over me like I wasn't there. It was difficult when I did leave the house to go places with the kids. I had to talk myself into everything I did. I loved the beach but it was a nightmare of humiliation for me. The amusement parks were torcher. I loved the coasters but I was too big to ride. I stayed away from friends, people who once meant the world to me because I was ashamed of what I had become on the outside. My life was boring and full of doubt and hope for the future. I felt like I had no life. I certainly didn't feel like I had any quality of life.
So much has changed. It is hard to keep up with everything at times. The loss happened so fast that I think I'm still getting used to the new me. I have a great deal more confidence which has allowed me to enjoy going places with my teen boys without feeling like an embarrassment to them. Their friends interact with me and treat me with respect. I've recently ridden the coasters and was grateful to be able to remember how much I enjoyed them. We have had spur of the moment friend gatherings that are amazing. I feel like I can finally relax in my own skin and be myself. Even family gatherings bring less anxiety. I don't have to talk myself into going somewhere, I just go. I don't have to worry about finding the nearest parking spot or how far I'll have to walk to get to where I'm going. Eliminating all those thoughts and fears have been the greatest weight lost. It frees up time and room for healthier self talk. When I'm with those same friends, they don't talk over me or cut me off. I have their respect and what I have to say seems to matter more. I know that's wrong of people to do that but it's how people are. I treat myself better and respect myself more which has made a huge difference. I feel like I am even more outgoing and I have been able to reconnect with my old friends with confidence and actually enjoy myself without judging myself or expecting others to do the same.
I feel like the person I was as a teenager. My personality is back and I look forward to each day instead of dreading it.
The physical aspects that have changed have also given me confidence. I recently ran up 3 flights of stairs and was not out of breath. These were the same 3 flights of stairs that I used to have to stop on 3/4 of the way to the top because I couldn't breathe and my chest felt like it was on fire. That is not just a physical change. Imagine the emotional high that gave me!
I am happier, I stick up for myself when I need to without feeling guilty, I love more, I play more, I respect myself more.
It has been an amazing journey and I wouldn't trade it for the world. It has given me my life back.
I still have moments where I forget that I am this renewed person. I still have anxiety and feel like people judge me but it is few and far between compared to the minute by minute feelings I used to have.
Life is good.
Monday, May 10, 2010
KIDNEY STONES!!
I was feeling nauseous the other night so I decided to lay down. The pain in my left side was so severe that I couldn't relax. After a few minutes I got sick. I was grateful at first, thinking that now I would feel better. That wasn't the case. It was not subsiding at all. It became more intense and remained constant. After about 30 minutes of being stubborn and telling myself it would go away, my husband was able to convince me to go to the emergency room.
The pain continued to worsen, which I didn't think was possible. It was difficult to breathe and I continued to vomit, but there was nothing left in me. It felt like I was waiting in the ER forever. (This is the part where I have to apologize to anyone else who was there ahead of me. Not only did I jump the line, but I was making a lot of noise. A woman and her child were even praying aloud for me.) The nurse came in immediately after I was in the room to start an IV line for pain meds and fluids. I had my husband call work and tell them I wouldn't be in the next day. My boss later confessed that she didn't know who had called out. All she could hear was someone yelling in the background. Once the pain medication kicked in I felt much better.
The CAT scan came back and they were quick to diagnose the issue as a kidney stone. That's what had me at a 10 on the pain scale? I had heard of kidney stones, but I never heard anyone talk about what it was like to have one.
They kept me over night and pumped fluid into me all night long and most of the next day. I had them stop the pain meds around 1am, 8 1/2 hours after the whole thing started. It wasn't until then that I started feeling okay without it.
The doctor stated that the stone was formed due to calcification. After doing some research, I learned that having the Gastric Bypass increases one's risk of having kidney stones. It can be prevented if the patient drinks plenty of water and does not let themselves get dehydrated and they take the calcium supplements recommended by the doctor.
After reading that I knew exactly where I went wrong. It's not always easy to get in enough water after the bypass. I'm 8 months out and I still have a tough time. I need to start forcing down more and taking my supplements more regularly.
I haven't passed the stone yet, as far as I can tell, so I'm not sure what happens from here. I actually have been feeling fine. I will probably still make an appointment to follow up with the doctor to see if anything else needs to be done. I definately don't want to go through that kind of pain again.
Here's a hint, in case this happens to you. My doctor told me that if I put my pain meds in the freezer, they would be good for life. He said if I ever run into this type of situation again, I could take a pill and would not be in such misery waiting to be seen.
I'm interested in hearing from other Gastric Bypass patients. Have any of you struggled with stones? What was your experience?
The pain continued to worsen, which I didn't think was possible. It was difficult to breathe and I continued to vomit, but there was nothing left in me. It felt like I was waiting in the ER forever. (This is the part where I have to apologize to anyone else who was there ahead of me. Not only did I jump the line, but I was making a lot of noise. A woman and her child were even praying aloud for me.) The nurse came in immediately after I was in the room to start an IV line for pain meds and fluids. I had my husband call work and tell them I wouldn't be in the next day. My boss later confessed that she didn't know who had called out. All she could hear was someone yelling in the background. Once the pain medication kicked in I felt much better.
The CAT scan came back and they were quick to diagnose the issue as a kidney stone. That's what had me at a 10 on the pain scale? I had heard of kidney stones, but I never heard anyone talk about what it was like to have one.
They kept me over night and pumped fluid into me all night long and most of the next day. I had them stop the pain meds around 1am, 8 1/2 hours after the whole thing started. It wasn't until then that I started feeling okay without it.
The doctor stated that the stone was formed due to calcification. After doing some research, I learned that having the Gastric Bypass increases one's risk of having kidney stones. It can be prevented if the patient drinks plenty of water and does not let themselves get dehydrated and they take the calcium supplements recommended by the doctor.
After reading that I knew exactly where I went wrong. It's not always easy to get in enough water after the bypass. I'm 8 months out and I still have a tough time. I need to start forcing down more and taking my supplements more regularly.
I haven't passed the stone yet, as far as I can tell, so I'm not sure what happens from here. I actually have been feeling fine. I will probably still make an appointment to follow up with the doctor to see if anything else needs to be done. I definately don't want to go through that kind of pain again.
Here's a hint, in case this happens to you. My doctor told me that if I put my pain meds in the freezer, they would be good for life. He said if I ever run into this type of situation again, I could take a pill and would not be in such misery waiting to be seen.
I'm interested in hearing from other Gastric Bypass patients. Have any of you struggled with stones? What was your experience?
Monday, April 26, 2010
Since My Last Post
I am very close to losing that 150 pound total. As exciting as it is, I haven't had the motivation to leap over the hurtle. Everyone says they can see a recent difference. I can not. I see the number on the scale and freak out. I've stopped weighing myself as often because I can't stand the disapointment. I have been the same weight, maybe minus 2 pounds for about 3 weeks now. It's not so much that I am upset about that, it's that I am upset with myself. I have gotten very lenient with myself and what I've been doing.
I've decided that I will become accountable to my readers, right here and right now. I feel that if I outline my intentions, it will be easier to follow them. I will blog again soon to let you know how I've done with these goals.
I. I will start taking my vitamins again, daily. I have not been taking them faithfully. I noticed that the weight moves more quickly when I take them on a regualr basis. Maybe that's all in my head.
II. I will drink more water. Now that my stomach has stretched I eat more than I used to if I'm not drinking enough water.
III. I will join Curves(c) tomorrow to jump start my metabolism and build strength and muscle in order to burn more fat and weight. I must confess that I have not been sucessful at keeping the motivation to exercise. I've been to Curves(c) before and I have had great success. I could really use some toning right about now too. (I'm considering also getting a beginners Yoga DVD for that.)
I'm going to start there and then move on to the next phase when I'm ready.
Please share. Is there something you're struggling with after the surgery or do you have questions? You can either share here or send me an e-mail on Facebook to Missy Cantlin Bell.
Thanks for following!!
Missy
I've decided that I will become accountable to my readers, right here and right now. I feel that if I outline my intentions, it will be easier to follow them. I will blog again soon to let you know how I've done with these goals.
I. I will start taking my vitamins again, daily. I have not been taking them faithfully. I noticed that the weight moves more quickly when I take them on a regualr basis. Maybe that's all in my head.
II. I will drink more water. Now that my stomach has stretched I eat more than I used to if I'm not drinking enough water.
III. I will join Curves(c) tomorrow to jump start my metabolism and build strength and muscle in order to burn more fat and weight. I must confess that I have not been sucessful at keeping the motivation to exercise. I've been to Curves(c) before and I have had great success. I could really use some toning right about now too. (I'm considering also getting a beginners Yoga DVD for that.)
I'm going to start there and then move on to the next phase when I'm ready.
Please share. Is there something you're struggling with after the surgery or do you have questions? You can either share here or send me an e-mail on Facebook to Missy Cantlin Bell.
Thanks for following!!
Missy
Sunday, March 28, 2010
The Struggle Begins
Watching what I eat is becoming increasingly difficult. I do not get the dumping syndrome that a lot of people who have this surgery talk about. Let me rephrase, I do not get it as severely as others. I am able to eat chocolate and some fried foods, which I have deemed a curse.
I am now responsible for the rest of the weight I have to lose. The surgery has helped me this far and my appetite is not what it used to be but from here forward I really have to watch what I eat and make the best choices for myself. It is becoming more difficult.
I have found that when extreme stress takes over, I still have to watch for my old bad habits. I crave the wrong foods and on occasion have a "who cares" attitude. I know I can't do that. I've come too far. I do have to say, in my own defense, that compared to what I used to do, I am able to catch this type of behavior immediately. If I have acted on a bad habit or craving, I am able to turn it around quickly by making healthier choices for the next meal or snack. It has been easier to "forgive myself" during these times as well. My cravings aren't leading to an entire pizza or 3 scoop ice cream sundaes with the works. For example, today, the family wanted Burger King for dinner. I feel like I "blew it," because I had 3/4 of a $1 Spicy Sandwich with just cheese and 1/2 of a small fry. That wouldn't have been so bad if I didn't add one of their cookies and eat it later when I got home. I used to get the Double Burger with cheese and bacon with a Large fry and Super huge Diet Coke. That only held me for a couple of hours.
On the other hand, I have started losing again. I don't think I eat enough yet to make a 1200 calorie diet most days, so my weight loss stalls on occasion, sometimes for a month or so. My body acts as if it is in starvation mode. My total loss since June is 143 pounds, 113 of that being since the surgery in August 2009.
I wanted to make this post because I know some of you are considering the surgery. I don't want you to think that Gastric Bypass is a quick fix. You will still have struggles. Even naturally thin people struggle with food choices. It's natural. And keep in mind that not everyone gets severe dumping syndrome. I had it in the beginning but I am now able to have a piece of pizza, 1/2 of a small cheeseburger, a small dose of chocolate on occasion without getting sick. If I go outside of my small portion range though, it's all over. My body rebels.
This mission I'm on to lose weight, keep it off and make healthy choices from here forward will be a lifetime struggle. I feel that I am up for the challenge but may need help on occasion. One of the most important things I have learned to do is strategize. If I am at the table and I know I have eaten enough food, but also feel the urge to pick, I ask for my family to remove the food from the table. I realize that if I do it, I will steal another bite, lick or taste. If it is out of the way and someone else removes it, the temptation is gone. Another thing I've done is remind people that I cannot eat certain things. People seem to forget after a while for whatever reason and they start offering sweets to you. If you feel you are vulnerable, remind people that you would rather that they didn't offer those types of foods. You can simply explain that you'd rather not be aware they are even around. Simply removing the temptation can be very helpful. "Out of site, out of mind."
The above can help whether you have had surgery or not. The struggle will always be there but you can make it easier on yourself. Removing temptation or removing yourself from it's vicinity is the best option for success. Drink plenty of water and limit the carbs.
Something to thing about is that Easter is right around the corner. Most people who celebrate Easter do so with a basket of candy. If candy is a major downfall for you and your children, why not change things up a bit and fill the basket with 1 chocolate Easter Bunny and the rest with toys. My boys are older and absolutely love finding gift cards to buy a new video game or Xbox points. Think of how much happier they would be. You would be happier too. They wouldn't be loaded with sugar for a week and have to deal with the misbehaving that goes along with that. For yourself, what about a gift certificate to a spa, a new outfit, or if funds are tight, how about treating you and a friend to a movie? The possibilities are endless. In my house, we have even resorted to fruit baskets. That's always a great treat too.
I raise my glass of water to yours as a toast to our continued success.
Happy Easter and Best Wishes,
Missy Cantlin Bell
I am now responsible for the rest of the weight I have to lose. The surgery has helped me this far and my appetite is not what it used to be but from here forward I really have to watch what I eat and make the best choices for myself. It is becoming more difficult.
I have found that when extreme stress takes over, I still have to watch for my old bad habits. I crave the wrong foods and on occasion have a "who cares" attitude. I know I can't do that. I've come too far. I do have to say, in my own defense, that compared to what I used to do, I am able to catch this type of behavior immediately. If I have acted on a bad habit or craving, I am able to turn it around quickly by making healthier choices for the next meal or snack. It has been easier to "forgive myself" during these times as well. My cravings aren't leading to an entire pizza or 3 scoop ice cream sundaes with the works. For example, today, the family wanted Burger King for dinner. I feel like I "blew it," because I had 3/4 of a $1 Spicy Sandwich with just cheese and 1/2 of a small fry. That wouldn't have been so bad if I didn't add one of their cookies and eat it later when I got home. I used to get the Double Burger with cheese and bacon with a Large fry and Super huge Diet Coke. That only held me for a couple of hours.
On the other hand, I have started losing again. I don't think I eat enough yet to make a 1200 calorie diet most days, so my weight loss stalls on occasion, sometimes for a month or so. My body acts as if it is in starvation mode. My total loss since June is 143 pounds, 113 of that being since the surgery in August 2009.
I wanted to make this post because I know some of you are considering the surgery. I don't want you to think that Gastric Bypass is a quick fix. You will still have struggles. Even naturally thin people struggle with food choices. It's natural. And keep in mind that not everyone gets severe dumping syndrome. I had it in the beginning but I am now able to have a piece of pizza, 1/2 of a small cheeseburger, a small dose of chocolate on occasion without getting sick. If I go outside of my small portion range though, it's all over. My body rebels.
This mission I'm on to lose weight, keep it off and make healthy choices from here forward will be a lifetime struggle. I feel that I am up for the challenge but may need help on occasion. One of the most important things I have learned to do is strategize. If I am at the table and I know I have eaten enough food, but also feel the urge to pick, I ask for my family to remove the food from the table. I realize that if I do it, I will steal another bite, lick or taste. If it is out of the way and someone else removes it, the temptation is gone. Another thing I've done is remind people that I cannot eat certain things. People seem to forget after a while for whatever reason and they start offering sweets to you. If you feel you are vulnerable, remind people that you would rather that they didn't offer those types of foods. You can simply explain that you'd rather not be aware they are even around. Simply removing the temptation can be very helpful. "Out of site, out of mind."
The above can help whether you have had surgery or not. The struggle will always be there but you can make it easier on yourself. Removing temptation or removing yourself from it's vicinity is the best option for success. Drink plenty of water and limit the carbs.
Something to thing about is that Easter is right around the corner. Most people who celebrate Easter do so with a basket of candy. If candy is a major downfall for you and your children, why not change things up a bit and fill the basket with 1 chocolate Easter Bunny and the rest with toys. My boys are older and absolutely love finding gift cards to buy a new video game or Xbox points. Think of how much happier they would be. You would be happier too. They wouldn't be loaded with sugar for a week and have to deal with the misbehaving that goes along with that. For yourself, what about a gift certificate to a spa, a new outfit, or if funds are tight, how about treating you and a friend to a movie? The possibilities are endless. In my house, we have even resorted to fruit baskets. That's always a great treat too.
I raise my glass of water to yours as a toast to our continued success.
Happy Easter and Best Wishes,
Missy Cantlin Bell
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Dehydration and Lack of Nutrients
Last week I caught the flu. I felt horrible, as you can imagine. But then you're sick, you really don't think about anything else except sleeping. It started on a Wednesday night, over night. Except for the times I was out of bed, getting sick, I was in bed sleeping. My room is on the 2nd floor and the kitchen is downstairs. I was too worn out to go down to get anything to drink. Besides, I wasn't very interested in eating or drinking. That was just too much effort. I think about 36 hours went by before I made myself get out of bed and go to work that Friday morning. I still wasn't thrilled with the whole food idea and didn't take in much fluid. After work I went straight home to bed.
Saturday arrived quickly. I felt pretty well all day Saturday and was back to eating and drinking as usual. Saturday night I was scheduled to DJ at the local skating rink. About 1.5 hours into the session I started feeling a little light headed. I rested for a few minutes and felt better. About 30 minutes later, the feeling came on again. I started to lose my hearing. That's saying something when you cannot hear music while inside a skating rink. I called for my manager and by the time he turned around to get a chair for me, I had lost my sight and slid down the wall I was leaning against. I wasn't out long, seconds he said actually, but I was a little disoriented when I came to, and embarrassed to say the least.
An ambulance came to check my sugar levels and vital signs. My blood pressure was a little off. They suggested I make the trip to the ER. I didn't want to pay for the ambulance ride so I finished my 20 minutes of work and waited for my husband to pick me and my 16 year old up.
The trip to the ER was interesting. My blood pressure dropped to 92/45. They ran a CAT scan on my head and it didn't show anything out of the ordinary, thankfully. They gave me some water and Tylenol for my headache. The EKG they ran came back fine as well. The doctor stated it was due to previous dehydration and lack of certain nutrients.
The experience was certainly scary. I've learned from it. It is not healthy to go without food and water on a usual basis but for someone who has had the Gastric Bypass surgery it is even more important to be sure that you focus on these things, especially when you are ill. It is much easier for dehydration to set in.
If you start feeling dizzy or disoriented, seek medical attention. You do not want to end up passing out.
If you've had any experiences like this after surgery or negative side affects, please share them by posting below.
Saturday arrived quickly. I felt pretty well all day Saturday and was back to eating and drinking as usual. Saturday night I was scheduled to DJ at the local skating rink. About 1.5 hours into the session I started feeling a little light headed. I rested for a few minutes and felt better. About 30 minutes later, the feeling came on again. I started to lose my hearing. That's saying something when you cannot hear music while inside a skating rink. I called for my manager and by the time he turned around to get a chair for me, I had lost my sight and slid down the wall I was leaning against. I wasn't out long, seconds he said actually, but I was a little disoriented when I came to, and embarrassed to say the least.
An ambulance came to check my sugar levels and vital signs. My blood pressure was a little off. They suggested I make the trip to the ER. I didn't want to pay for the ambulance ride so I finished my 20 minutes of work and waited for my husband to pick me and my 16 year old up.
The trip to the ER was interesting. My blood pressure dropped to 92/45. They ran a CAT scan on my head and it didn't show anything out of the ordinary, thankfully. They gave me some water and Tylenol for my headache. The EKG they ran came back fine as well. The doctor stated it was due to previous dehydration and lack of certain nutrients.
The experience was certainly scary. I've learned from it. It is not healthy to go without food and water on a usual basis but for someone who has had the Gastric Bypass surgery it is even more important to be sure that you focus on these things, especially when you are ill. It is much easier for dehydration to set in.
If you start feeling dizzy or disoriented, seek medical attention. You do not want to end up passing out.
If you've had any experiences like this after surgery or negative side affects, please share them by posting below.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
6 Months Post Surgical / Bloodwork Results
I went back to the doctor's this past Wednesday. I've been extremely tired for the past few weeks and I wanted to be sure that it wasn't anything that was post surgically related. I was concerned about low iron and B12 levels and dehydration.
My blood work all came back normal. My blood cells are the normal size, my body is absorbing enough iron and B12 and I am not dehydrated. I was thrilled to say the least. So many people have deficiencies after surgery because our bodies now have a shorter digestive tract and less nutrition is absorbed. I was fortunate and I have been counting my blessings ever since.
My total weight loss since a month before the surgery is 130. Next week will mark my 6th month out of surgery. It has been a steady pound or two loss for a few weeks now. I've been roller skating once a week and moving more at home. I've started working on the weekends on my feet, which will also help.
I am interested in other people's stories who have had the surgery. I would love for you to share your successes and issues after the suregery. If you have a story to tell, please share it here so that others who are considering the surgery can make an informed decision.
Thank you for your time.
Missy Bell
My blood work all came back normal. My blood cells are the normal size, my body is absorbing enough iron and B12 and I am not dehydrated. I was thrilled to say the least. So many people have deficiencies after surgery because our bodies now have a shorter digestive tract and less nutrition is absorbed. I was fortunate and I have been counting my blessings ever since.
My total weight loss since a month before the surgery is 130. Next week will mark my 6th month out of surgery. It has been a steady pound or two loss for a few weeks now. I've been roller skating once a week and moving more at home. I've started working on the weekends on my feet, which will also help.
I am interested in other people's stories who have had the surgery. I would love for you to share your successes and issues after the suregery. If you have a story to tell, please share it here so that others who are considering the surgery can make an informed decision.
Thank you for your time.
Missy Bell
Thursday, January 21, 2010
5 1/2 Months after Gastric Bypass Surgery
Thanks for supporting my blog site! I'm glad you've decided to come back for a visit. It has been 5 1/2 months since the surgery. A lot has changed since that day.
As I look back on who I was then and who I am now, I can start to see definite changes. The most noticeable change of course is the way I look. I've been called "skinny," "Skinny Minnie," and I've been told I'm melting and disappearing. As much as I appreciate the compliments and I value those people's opinions, I know I have a long road ahead of me. I don't feel thin by any means. But I guess in comparison to what I was, it's drastic. I have lost 31% of myself. That's almost 1/3 of what I used to be! Looking at it that way is a bit exciting.
I want to lose another 120. The weight loss has slowed down considerably. I'm not complaining, don't get me wrong. I do get discouraged though. It's not easy to eat as little as I do and see the scale stay about the same day in and day out for weeks on end. I've hit another plateau.
I've gone back to roller skating at least once a week for a couple of hours. That seems to help with a pound here or there. I think my body gets into starvation mode and doesn't want to let go of the weight. Everyone says they still see changes in my shape weekly though.
I've noticed that I don't mind going out as much. I enjoy spending time with people now. I was always too self conscious and worried about what other people thought to actually enjoy myself. I can actually say that I enjoy myself now. I don't have as many inhibitions.
People treat me differently now. I feel like I am more visible. People seemed to look through me or past me before when I was much heavier, as though I didn't exist. I used to notice that a few of my friends would not even hear me when I talked sometimes, and I am NOT quiet. It was frustrating. Maybe it was my perception because I had a low self worth and that is how I thought others saw me. I have much more confidence now.
I'm grateful for the changes this surgery has brought and I look forward to the future more, now that I believe I have one.
In the same breath, I haven't been feeling very well the past 2 weeks. I've been exhausted daily. I'm sleeping well. I don't wake up like I used to in the middle of the night and I think my sleep apnea is gone. I don't know what is causing it. So I went to the doctor's after work yesterday to have some blood drawn. I go back to see my doctor next week. My only concerns would be slight anemia from not enough iron or mild dehydration from not enough water. I'm hoping it's neither. I'll just have to wait until next week to find out. If it's something serious I'm sure they will call.
I joined "The Biggest Loser Contest" at work. I'll keep you posted on my progress. The contest is by floor so I'm really rooting for us. We have a good group of people so I know we stand a chance.
Have you ever joined something like that? How did it go? Did it help you stay motivated? I would love people to start sharing their experiences here with weight issues or perceptions of weight in society.
If you're considering the surgery and you would like to know more than what you've read here, feel free to post and I will respond.
Missy
As I look back on who I was then and who I am now, I can start to see definite changes. The most noticeable change of course is the way I look. I've been called "skinny," "Skinny Minnie," and I've been told I'm melting and disappearing. As much as I appreciate the compliments and I value those people's opinions, I know I have a long road ahead of me. I don't feel thin by any means. But I guess in comparison to what I was, it's drastic. I have lost 31% of myself. That's almost 1/3 of what I used to be! Looking at it that way is a bit exciting.
I want to lose another 120. The weight loss has slowed down considerably. I'm not complaining, don't get me wrong. I do get discouraged though. It's not easy to eat as little as I do and see the scale stay about the same day in and day out for weeks on end. I've hit another plateau.
I've gone back to roller skating at least once a week for a couple of hours. That seems to help with a pound here or there. I think my body gets into starvation mode and doesn't want to let go of the weight. Everyone says they still see changes in my shape weekly though.
I've noticed that I don't mind going out as much. I enjoy spending time with people now. I was always too self conscious and worried about what other people thought to actually enjoy myself. I can actually say that I enjoy myself now. I don't have as many inhibitions.
People treat me differently now. I feel like I am more visible. People seemed to look through me or past me before when I was much heavier, as though I didn't exist. I used to notice that a few of my friends would not even hear me when I talked sometimes, and I am NOT quiet. It was frustrating. Maybe it was my perception because I had a low self worth and that is how I thought others saw me. I have much more confidence now.
I'm grateful for the changes this surgery has brought and I look forward to the future more, now that I believe I have one.
In the same breath, I haven't been feeling very well the past 2 weeks. I've been exhausted daily. I'm sleeping well. I don't wake up like I used to in the middle of the night and I think my sleep apnea is gone. I don't know what is causing it. So I went to the doctor's after work yesterday to have some blood drawn. I go back to see my doctor next week. My only concerns would be slight anemia from not enough iron or mild dehydration from not enough water. I'm hoping it's neither. I'll just have to wait until next week to find out. If it's something serious I'm sure they will call.
I joined "The Biggest Loser Contest" at work. I'll keep you posted on my progress. The contest is by floor so I'm really rooting for us. We have a good group of people so I know we stand a chance.
Have you ever joined something like that? How did it go? Did it help you stay motivated? I would love people to start sharing their experiences here with weight issues or perceptions of weight in society.
If you're considering the surgery and you would like to know more than what you've read here, feel free to post and I will respond.
Missy
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Old Habits Die Hard
I can relate to this saying. When I think things are going very well, along comes the major stress and I completely fall apart.
I have done well so far since the Gastric Bypass surgery, with a total weight loss of about 120 pounds since June. My clothes fit better, I have more energy and the mere thought of walking somewhere, even from my car into a store, does not consume my every emotion. This holiday season I found that I was walking everywhere and for long periods of time and would not even realize I was doing it until I returned to the car.
The holidays arrived and I was feeling very good about the way I was able to handle the stress to food ratio. Then the major stress hit. I lost an old friend in a tragic event and when one of my relatives came home for Christmas, he made plans for his life that did not include his family. These events took over my thoughts and I found myself heading for the closest comfort foods I could find. My hand was dipping into the bag of chocolates left over from a New Year's celebration. What was I doing? This went on for a full 48 hours. I feel like my stomach has expanded, my mood is taking a ride in the back, whipping car of a roller coaster and my self esteem has plummeted. This is all, no doubt due mostly to the high amount of carbohydrates I've loaded into my system in search of comfort and to the thoughts that so negatively affected my weight in the past.
Fortunately, I have recognized my old behaviors quickly and resolved to change them. I cannot let stress and the actions of others affect my goals. The food I am "using" is not comforting me. It is hindering my progress and sending me into a downward spiral. This is the same unconscious eating that brought me to my pre-surgical weight.
I still want to lose another 115 pounds. I am well aware that this is not the way to achieve that goal. Nor do I want to become a statistic-the girl people refer to when they discuss failed Gastric Bypass Surgeries. I am determined to do this for ME.
I am back to the positive thinking and I will be taking action from here forward to get back on track. I bought a blender today and will be getting back to basics by making the Whey Protein shakes that I started on. I also bought yogurt to add to the protein balance.
I will be installing my exercise equipment I received as a gift for Christmas and I will start with that as well.
I will continue to watch for these habits and in the future, all trigger food will be removed from the home when stress begins.
Old habits die hard, but I must be stronger than they are if I wish to banish them for good.
Do you have struggles you want to discuss? Please post below and I will respond. Also, please become a "follower" of my blog to receive updates.
I have done well so far since the Gastric Bypass surgery, with a total weight loss of about 120 pounds since June. My clothes fit better, I have more energy and the mere thought of walking somewhere, even from my car into a store, does not consume my every emotion. This holiday season I found that I was walking everywhere and for long periods of time and would not even realize I was doing it until I returned to the car.
The holidays arrived and I was feeling very good about the way I was able to handle the stress to food ratio. Then the major stress hit. I lost an old friend in a tragic event and when one of my relatives came home for Christmas, he made plans for his life that did not include his family. These events took over my thoughts and I found myself heading for the closest comfort foods I could find. My hand was dipping into the bag of chocolates left over from a New Year's celebration. What was I doing? This went on for a full 48 hours. I feel like my stomach has expanded, my mood is taking a ride in the back, whipping car of a roller coaster and my self esteem has plummeted. This is all, no doubt due mostly to the high amount of carbohydrates I've loaded into my system in search of comfort and to the thoughts that so negatively affected my weight in the past.
Fortunately, I have recognized my old behaviors quickly and resolved to change them. I cannot let stress and the actions of others affect my goals. The food I am "using" is not comforting me. It is hindering my progress and sending me into a downward spiral. This is the same unconscious eating that brought me to my pre-surgical weight.
I still want to lose another 115 pounds. I am well aware that this is not the way to achieve that goal. Nor do I want to become a statistic-the girl people refer to when they discuss failed Gastric Bypass Surgeries. I am determined to do this for ME.
I am back to the positive thinking and I will be taking action from here forward to get back on track. I bought a blender today and will be getting back to basics by making the Whey Protein shakes that I started on. I also bought yogurt to add to the protein balance.
I will be installing my exercise equipment I received as a gift for Christmas and I will start with that as well.
I will continue to watch for these habits and in the future, all trigger food will be removed from the home when stress begins.
Old habits die hard, but I must be stronger than they are if I wish to banish them for good.
Do you have struggles you want to discuss? Please post below and I will respond. Also, please become a "follower" of my blog to receive updates.
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