stoma blockage

Question
I had a gastric sleeve on 10-01-2008 and am still on a strict diet.  Yesterday, I had some pasta, (I'm allowed to have egg noodles).  I don't believe I had too much, however, when I called my surgeon's office about this, I was told that I may not have chewed the food properly.  Anyway, dinner was at about 7:00 p.m. and since then, I have not been able to eat anything.  I've been able to sip a little water, though not too much.  When I called the surgeon's office, I was told to get some meat tenderizer and mix a tsp. with a cup of water.  That this would help to dissolve the food that was there.  I was able to get about half of that down, but the second sip was largely thrown back up.  I have not vomited except for that, but I have been gagging.  I have hardly peed, but I haven't been able to drink either.  So, does it sound like a bowel obstruction and what do they do about this?  I am very very uncomfortable.  Thank you ahead of time for any help you can give me.

Answer
Hi Dianne,

What you're describing could be simply a case of an irritation from probably not chewing enough.  However, it could also be something more.  The fact that you haven't been able to drink is a concern.  

I'm not a physician or health care professional but I would rather be safe than sorry, especially since you just had your surgery less than a month ago.  I'm glad that I just received this so you can receive my response.

I would strongly encourage you to call your surgeon's office now and not wait until the morning.  If you call this evening, there should be a doctor on call.  Please describe your situation in detail and include the fact that you can't drink and are "very very uncomfortable."  If necessary, go to your local urgent care or even an e.r. to make certain everything is okay.  

Now that we've had surgery, we've taken charge of our health and being your own advocate for yourself starts now.  There is no question or concern, especially at your stage of post-op, that doesn't deserve to be addressed with you by your surgeon or the office staff.  

If you don't mind, please follow-up and let me know how you are.  

Take care,
Cathy, CLC
Certified Life Coach, Weight Loss Surgery Coach
Certified Back On Track Facilitator  

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