RE: Feeling Depressed and Ambivalent (very long post)

June 3, 2008

Have you tried probiotics? Just curious.

Vicki B

>

> Hi Kids!!!

> & nbsp;

> It's been & nbsp;6 months since I last posted so I thought I'd stop by and let

everyone

know how I'm doing.

> & nbsp;

> When I last wrote, my post was a bit of downer since I was frustrated/saddened

by my

chronic and explosive diarrhea/gas/odor issues. Despite trying to eat low

fat/low sugar/

high protein/high fiber, my BMs were extremely loose/watery in consistency.

Furthermore

I was suffering from fecal incontinence since I had no control over my BMs or

sometimes

never felt the " urge " until it was too late. Since I was having horribly

smelling " accidents "

everywhere (work, stores, libraries, movies, school, etc) I gave up wearing

underwear and

started wearing & nbsp;Depends 24/7. Some days are better than others and I can

actually

function quite normally and go to work/school without fear of embarrassment.

Other days

are horrific and I end up taking 2 or 3 showers in a day and stay at home. There

seeems to

be no rhyme or reason to my " accidents " --sometimes I can eat a meal and be

perfectly

fine and the next meal will have me running for the bathroom (sometimes without

> luck).

> & nbsp;

> This condition has been going on for nearly two years and has cost me one job,

a

home & nbsp;and my nursing career because of my " accidents. " My " accidents "

wouldn't be

so bad if they were a little more subtle, but unfortunately I usually have big

blowouts that

are so smelly that coworkers/schoolmates have actually vacated the room I was in

and

complained of feeling nauseated. Needless to say, prayers to God asking for the

Earth to

open up and swallow me to cover my humiliation and shame have gone unanswered.

Just

last week I exploded at work and soiled my clothes so badly that I ended up

going home in

tears and mortification.

> & nbsp;

> When I last posted, I said I didn't regret having WLS. I was happy that I had

managed to

lose 200+ pounds and had reduced my chances of stroke, heart disease, diabetes,

and

cancer. Right now I'm ambivalent. I know if I hadn't had my RNY (later revised

to a DS)

back in 2000, I probably would be close to 450 pounds by now and suffering from

hypertension and diabetes. So for that reason I'm happy I had the surgery.

However

because of my diarrhea/gas/smell issues, I'm beginning to have second thoughts

which is

truly sad.

> & nbsp;

> One of my coworkers is having & nbsp;a RNY & nbsp;soon and asked my opinion about

it.

She doesn't know I had WLS, but knows I've lost a lot of weight. A part of me

wants to be

happy for her, but I remember only too bitterly how many times food got stuck in

my

pouch and I had to literally force myself to vomit to get rid of the horrible

feeling. Now I'm

having issues with my DS and in my darkest moments I can't help but regret my

decision

to have it. So I'm left feeling ambivalent towards WLS and unable to

condemn/recommend

it.

> & nbsp;

> I know YMMV (your mileage may vary) and very very few WLS patients suffer as I

do. Hell

I envy those who have complained of constipation on this site. I've even taken

large doses

of Iron and Calcium to constipate myself and if I'm lucky I firm up to Cool Whip

consistency (most time I'm literally peeing out my butt). Yet it's frustrating,

sad, and

depressing to think I have to live like this for the rest of my life.

> & nbsp;

> What does Dr K say about my condition? Basically I need a revision of my DS to

lengthen

my common channel from 50 cm to 100 cm. It would stop/slow down my diarrhea and

allow me & nbsp;to absorb nutrients better (I've had constant problems with low

iron/

calcium/protein levels). However the drawback is that I'd regain some of my

weight unless

I was extremely careful with my diet. Right now gaining back weight would be the

least of

my concerns. Just having the ability to live a normal life again would be worth

it. Besides

Dr K said he'd rather see me at a healthy 230 pounds than the badly malnourished

and too

damn skinny 130 pounds I weighed nearly 18 months ago.

> & nbsp;

> So what's the problem? My insurance carrier/policy (Aetna POS) isn't the best

in the

world and Dr K and DRMC are out of network providers. When Dr K proposed having

the

revision surgery, my insurance didn't provide coverage for out of network

providers so I

was basically (pardon the pun) shit of luck. However effective January 2008,

Aetna decided

to change its policy and cover out of network providers at 50%. Well isn't that

good news?

Yes, in a way, but that still means I have to cover the other 50%. So if Dr K

and DRMC

charges $10K for the revision surgery that means I have to cough up $5 out of my

pocket.

OUCH!!!

> & nbsp;

> More importantly, I simply don't have the sick leave/vacation time accrued to

take time

off for the surgery. I had hernia repair surgery in November 2007 and was

supposed to be

off work for 2 weeks. Unfortunately I suffered complications and ended up being

out 3

months. I exhausted my sick leave/vacation time and savings. Even though I was

awarded

state disability during my time off, I was hit badly financially. Since my

revision would be

major surgery, I'm estimating I'd be off work for 4-6 weeks and I simply can't

afford it

moneywise especially if I have complications.

> & nbsp;

> So where does that leave me? In a pickle. I'm estimating it would take well

over

a & nbsp;year & nbsp;to save enough money and time off to afford the surgery. Can I

wait

that long? Don't have much choice, but it's a depressing proposition.

> & nbsp;

> How about changing your diet or taking Flagyl/probiotics/Immodium? Been there,

done

that....nothing works. My PCP has even prescribed Lomotil and other drugs to

slow down

my bowels and my body isn't fazed by them. So each day I pray for a good day and

sometimes I'm lucky and sometimes I'm not :-( Today so far has been a good day,

but my

tummy has been rumbling all day so I stayed at home to avoid/prevent an

" accident. " More

and more these days I avoid leaving the house not because of rising gas prices,

but due to

my " accidents. " Having WLS to lose weight was suppose to help me rejoin and

enjoy life.

Having bathroom issues is killing my life.

> & nbsp;

> I'm truly sorry that this is another downer post from me. I've tried to stay

positive, but

sometimes you just have to vent or go crazy. For newbies reading this

post....very very few

WLS patients have my problem and those that do can control " accidents " with the

use of a

low fat/low sugar/high fiber diet, Flagyl, probiotics or taking extra

iron/calcium. The vast

majority of you will enjoy a wonderful weight loss experience with the DS and Dr

K. There

are still times when I love having lost 200+ pounds. However when I have an

" accident " I

can't help but regret my decision to have WLS. Hopefully once I have my

revision, I will be

able to sing the praises of the DS but for now I simply can't :-(

> & nbsp;

> As for the rest of my life...I moved out from Mission Viejo in January 2008

and now live

with a friend in Ontario, CA near San Bernardino. I had to leave because my

former

roommates were having problems with my smelly " accidents. " A very kind and

understanding friend offered me a place to stay (his sense of smell is terrible)

and I

accepted it gratefully even & nbsp; though it meant leaving Orange County (which I

love and

miss deeply). I also gave up on nursing school since I had one too many

" accidents " during

my clinicals. Finally I was let go from a job (I was still on probation) because

of two

particularly nasty " accidents " I had at work. I managed to locate another job,

but still worry

my bathroom issues will come back to haunt me.

> & nbsp;

> Right now I take each day one at a time. Currently I'm awaiting the results of

labwork

that Dr K ordered for me last Friday. Lately I've been feeling really lousy and

Dr K suspects

my chronic diarrhea may be causing me to malabsorb vital nutrients. The last

time I felt

this way, Dr K threatened to put me in the hospital to get infusions for iron,

calcium and

protein. Unfortunately I had just lost my job so I didn't have health insurance

to go to the

hospital. I ended up taking tons of iron/calcium supplements and protein shakes

and

managed to nudge myself back from danger. Since everything is flying through my

system

thanks to the & nbsp;diarrhea, I won't be able to pull that trick again.

> & nbsp;

> Time to end this post and crawl back into lurkdom. Thanks for listening and

allowing

me to vent.

> & nbsp;

> Banks - Ontario, CA

>

> RNY - 12/21/00 - Pacific Bariatrics/San Diego, CA

> RNY to DS Revision - 9/23/03 - Ara Keshishian/Delano, CA

> & nbsp;

> Highest Weight: 420 - BMI 74

> RNY Pre-Op: 405 - BMI 72

> DS Revision: 285 - BMI 50

> Current Weight: 210 - BMI 37

> 210 pounds of excess weight gone

> & nbsp;

> Lower Body Lift performed on 11/24/04 (My 40th birthday present to myself)

> J Katzen MD - Beverly Hills, CA

> & nbsp;

>

June 4, 2008

,

I'm so sorry you're having problems and your body won't do what you

want/need! I'm glad that Dr K has a plan to help you and Aetna will at

least cover out of network now. Is there a possibility of Dr.K & DRMC

becoming in network for Aetna? Is Aetna open to the idea? It sounds

like between the RNY and the DS you had, your body just does not want

to cooperate with you, but given that your medical issues are

impacting you not only at work, but also just living your life in

general, it sounds like a revision is probably the right solution.

Only you can make that decision though as you'd need to weigh the

benefits to not having the health issues you do now, with potentially

gaining weight. What has Dr K said about those enzymes or whatever

they give to people that have lost too much weight? Doesn't that help

with the food absorption and therefore might help improve your bowel

issues? Is surgery definitely the only solution? It's definitely a

hard decision to make! *hugs*

Sending prayers and positive vibes your way..

Anita in San

>

> Hi Kids!!!

> & nbsp;

> It's been & nbsp;6 months since I last posted so I thought I'd stop by

and let everyone know how I'm doing.

> & nbsp;

> When I last wrote, my post was a bit of downer since I was

frustrated/saddened by my chronic and explosive diarrhea/gas/odor

issues. Despite trying to eat low fat/low sugar/high protein/high

fiber, my BMs were extremely loose/watery in consistency. Furthermore

I was suffering from fecal incontinence since I had no control over my

BMs or sometimes never felt the " urge " until it was too late. Since I

was having horribly smelling " accidents " everywhere (work, stores,

libraries, movies, school, etc) I gave up wearing underwear and

started wearing & nbsp;Depends 24/7. Some days are better than others

and I can actually function quite normally and go to work/school

without fear of embarrassment. Other days are horrific and I end up

taking 2 or 3 showers in a day and stay at home. There seeems to be no

rhyme or reason to my " accidents " --sometimes I can eat a meal and be

perfectly fine and the next meal will have me running for the bathroom

(sometimes without

> luck).

> & nbsp;

> This condition has been going on for nearly two years and has cost

me one job, a home & nbsp;and my nursing career because of my

" accidents. " My " accidents " wouldn't be so bad if they were a little

more subtle, but unfortunately I usually have big blowouts that are so

smelly that coworkers/schoolmates have actually vacated the room I was

in and complained of feeling nauseated. Needless to say, prayers to

God asking for the Earth to open up and swallow me to cover my

humiliation and shame have gone unanswered. Just last week I exploded

at work and soiled my clothes so badly that I ended up going home in

tears and mortification.

> & nbsp;

> When I last posted, I said I didn't regret having WLS. I was happy

that I had managed to lose 200+ pounds and had reduced my chances of

stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Right now I'm ambivalent.

I know if I hadn't had my RNY (later revised to a DS) back in 2000, I

probably would be close to 450 pounds by now and suffering from

hypertension and diabetes. So for that reason I'm happy I had the

surgery. However because of my diarrhea/gas/smell issues, I'm

beginning to have second thoughts which is truly sad.

> & nbsp;

> One of my coworkers is having & nbsp;a RNY & nbsp;soon and asked my

opinion about it. She doesn't know I had WLS, but knows I've lost a

lot of weight. A part of me wants to be happy for her, but I remember

only too bitterly how many times food got stuck in my pouch and I had

to literally force myself to vomit to get rid of the horrible feeling.

Now I'm having issues with my DS and in my darkest moments I can't

help but regret my decision to have it. So I'm left feeling ambivalent

towards WLS and unable to condemn/recommend it.

> & nbsp;

> I know YMMV (your mileage may vary) and very very few WLS patients

suffer as I do. Hell I envy those who have complained of constipation

on this site. I've even taken large doses of Iron and Calcium to

constipate myself and if I'm lucky I firm up to Cool Whip consistency

(most time I'm literally peeing out my butt). Yet it's frustrating,

sad, and depressing to think I have to live like this for the rest of

my life.

> & nbsp;

> What does Dr K say about my condition? Basically I need a revision

of my DS to lengthen my common channel from 50 cm to 100 cm. It would

stop/slow down my diarrhea and allow me & nbsp;to absorb nutrients

better (I've had constant problems with low iron/calcium/protein

levels). However the drawback is that I'd regain some of my weight

unless I was extremely careful with my diet. Right now gaining back

weight would be the least of my concerns. Just having the ability to

live a normal life again would be worth it. Besides Dr K said he'd

rather see me at a healthy 230 pounds than the badly malnourished and

too damn skinny 130 pounds I weighed nearly 18 months ago.

> & nbsp;

> So what's the problem? My insurance carrier/policy (Aetna POS) isn't

the best in the world and Dr K and DRMC are out of network providers.

When Dr K proposed having the revision surgery, my insurance didn't

provide coverage for out of network providers so I was basically

(pardon the pun) shit of luck. However effective January 2008, Aetna

decided to change its policy and cover out of network providers at

50%. Well isn't that good news? Yes, in a way, but that still means I

have to cover the other 50%. So if Dr K and DRMC charges $10K for the

revision surgery that means I have to cough up $5 out of my pocket.

OUCH!!!

> & nbsp;

> More importantly, I simply don't have the sick leave/vacation time

accrued to take time off for the surgery. I had hernia repair surgery

in November 2007 and was supposed to be off work for 2 weeks.

Unfortunately I suffered complications and ended up being out 3

months. I exhausted my sick leave/vacation time and savings. Even

though I was awarded state disability during my time off, I was hit

badly financially. Since my revision would be major surgery, I'm

estimating I'd be off work for 4-6 weeks and I simply can't afford it

moneywise especially if I have complications.

> & nbsp;

> So where does that leave me? In a pickle. I'm estimating it would

take well over a & nbsp;year & nbsp;to save enough money and time off to

afford the surgery. Can I wait that long? Don't have much choice, but

it's a depressing proposition.

> & nbsp;

> How about changing your diet or taking Flagyl/probiotics/Immodium?

Been there, done that....nothing works. My PCP has even prescribed

Lomotil and other drugs to slow down my bowels and my body isn't fazed

by them. So each day I pray for a good day and sometimes I'm lucky and

sometimes I'm not :-( Today so far has been a good day, but my tummy

has been rumbling all day so I stayed at home to avoid/prevent an

" accident. " More and more these days I avoid leaving the house not

because of rising gas prices, but due to my " accidents. " Having WLS to

lose weight was suppose to help me rejoin and enjoy life. Having

bathroom issues is killing my life.

> & nbsp;

> I'm truly sorry that this is another downer post from me. I've tried

to stay positive, but sometimes you just have to vent or go crazy. For

newbies reading this post....very very few WLS patients have my

problem and those that do can control " accidents " with the use of a

low fat/low sugar/high fiber diet, Flagyl, probiotics or taking extra

iron/calcium. The vast majority of you will enjoy a wonderful weight

loss experience with the DS and Dr K. There are still times when I

love having lost 200+ pounds. However when I have an " accident " I

can't help but regret my decision to have WLS. Hopefully once I have

my revision, I will be able to sing the praises of the DS but for now

I simply can't :-(

> & nbsp;

> As for the rest of my life...I moved out from Mission Viejo in

January 2008 and now live with a friend in Ontario, CA near San

Bernardino. I had to leave because my former roommates were having

problems with my smelly " accidents. " A very kind and understanding

friend offered me a place to stay (his sense of smell is terrible) and

I accepted it gratefully even & nbsp; though it meant leaving Orange

County (which I love and miss deeply). I also gave up on nursing

school since I had one too many " accidents " during my clinicals.

Finally I was let go from a job (I was still on probation) because of

two particularly nasty " accidents " I had at work. I managed to locate

another job, but still worry my bathroom issues will come back to

haunt me.

> & nbsp;

> Right now I take each day one at a time. Currently I'm awaiting the

results of labwork that Dr K ordered for me last Friday. Lately I've

been feeling really lousy and Dr K suspects my chronic diarrhea may be

causing me to malabsorb vital nutrients. The last time I felt this

way, Dr K threatened to put me in the hospital to get infusions for

iron, calcium and protein. Unfortunately I had just lost my job so I

didn't have health insurance to go to the hospital. I ended up taking

tons of iron/calcium supplements and protein shakes and managed to

nudge myself back from danger. Since everything is flying through my

system thanks to the & nbsp;diarrhea, I won't be able to pull that trick

again.

> & nbsp;

> Time to end this post and crawl back into lurkdom. Thanks for

listening and allowing me to vent.

> & nbsp;

> Banks - Ontario, CA

>

> RNY - 12/21/00 - Pacific Bariatrics/San Diego, CA

> RNY to DS Revision - 9/23/03 - Ara Keshishian/Delano, CA

> & nbsp;

> Highest Weight: 420 - BMI 74

> RNY Pre-Op: 405 - BMI 72

> DS Revision: 285 - BMI 50

> Current Weight: 210 - BMI 37

> 210 pounds of excess weight gone

> & nbsp;

> Lower Body Lift performed on 11/24/04 (My 40th birthday present to

myself)

> J Katzen MD - Beverly Hills, CA

> & nbsp;

>

June 4, 2008

,

I am at a loss for words. I've had several accidents over the last six

months, but nothing like you are describing. I feel for you, Girl.

When there doesn't seem to be anything else to do, all you can do is

pray. I will pray for you.

Blessings and love,

< Feeling Depressed and Ambivalent (very

long post)

Hi Kids!!!

& nbsp;

It's been & nbsp;6 months since I last posted so I thought I'd stop by and

let everyone know how I'm doing.

& nbsp;

When I last wrote, my post was a bit of downer since I was

frustrated/saddened by my chronic and explosive diarrhea/gas/odor

issues. Despite trying to eat low fat/low sugar/high protein/high fiber,

my BMs were extremely loose/watery in consistency. Furthermore I was

suffering from fecal incontinence since I had no control over my BMs or

sometimes never felt the " urge " until it was too late. Since I was

having horribly smelling " accidents " everywhere (work, stores,

libraries, movies, school, etc) I gave up wearing underwear and started

wearing & nbsp;Depends 24/7. Some days are better than others and I can

actually function quite normally and go to work/school without fear of

embarrassment. Other days are horrific and I end up taking 2 or 3

showers in a day and stay at home. There seeems to be no rhyme or reason

to my " accidents " --sometimes I can eat a meal and be perfectly fine and

the next meal will have me running for the bathr oom (sometimes without

luck).

& nbsp;

This condition has been going on for nearly two years and has cost me

one job, a home & nbsp;and my nursing career because of my " accidents. " My

" accidents " wouldn't be so bad if they were a little more subtle, but

unfortunately I usually have big blowouts that are so smelly that

coworkers/schoolmates have actually vacated the room I was in and

complained of feeling nauseated. Needless to say, prayers to God asking

for the Earth to open up and swallow me to cover my humiliation and

shame have gone unanswered. Just last week I exploded at work and soiled

my clothes so badly that I ended up going home in tears and

mortification.

& nbsp;

When I last posted, I said I didn't regret having WLS. I was happy that

I had managed to lose 200+ pounds and had reduced my chances of stroke,

heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Right now I'm ambivalent. I know if

I hadn't had my RNY (later revised to a DS) back in 2000, I probably

would be close to 450 pounds by now and suffering from hypertension and

diabetes. So for that reason I'm happy I had the surgery. However

because of my diarrhea/gas/smell issues, I'm beginning to have second

thoughts which is truly sad.

& nbsp;

One of my coworkers is having & nbsp;a RNY & nbsp;soon and asked my opinion

about it. She doesn't know I had WLS, but knows I've lost a lot of

weight. A part of me wants to be happy for her, but I remember only too

bitterly how many times food got stuck in my pouch and I had to

literally force myself to vomit to get rid of the horrible feeling. Now

I'm having issues with my DS and in my darkest moments I can't help but

regret my decision to have it. So I'm left feeling ambivalent towards

WLS and unable to condemn/recommend it.

& nbsp;

I know YMMV (your mileage may vary) and very very few WLS patients

suffer as I do. Hell I envy those who have complained of constipation on

this site. I've even taken large doses of Iron and Calcium to constipate

myself and if I'm lucky I firm up to Cool Whip consistency (most time

I'm literally peeing out my butt). Yet it's frustrating, sad, and

depressing to think I have to live like this for the rest of my life.

& nbsp;

What does Dr K say about my condition? Basically I need a revision of my

DS to lengthen my common channel from 50 cm to 100 cm. It would

stop/slow down my diarrhea and allow me & nbsp;to absorb nutrients better

(I've had constant problems with low iron/calcium/protein levels).

However the drawback is that I'd regain some of my weight unless I was

extremely careful with my diet. Right now gaining back weight would be

the least of my concerns. Just having the ability to live a normal life

again would be worth it. Besides Dr K said he'd rather see me at a

healthy 230 pounds than the badly malnourished and too damn skinny 130

pounds I weighed nearly 18 months ago.

& nbsp;

So what's the problem? My insurance carrier/policy (Aetna POS) isn't the

best in the world and Dr K and DRMC are out of network providers. When

Dr K proposed having the revision surgery, my insurance didn't provide

coverage for out of network providers so I was basically (pardon the

pun) shit of luck. However effective January 2008, Aetna decided to

change its policy and cover out of network providers at 50%. Well isn't

that good news? Yes, in a way, but that still means I have to cover the

other 50%. So if Dr K and DRMC charges $10K for the revision surgery

that means I have to cough up $5 out of my pocket. OUCH!!!

& nbsp;

More importantly, I simply don't have the sick leave/vacation time

accrued to take time off for the surgery. I had hernia repair surgery in

November 2007 and was supposed to be off work for 2 weeks. Unfortunately

I suffered complications and ended up being out 3 months. I exhausted my

sick leave/vacation time and savings. Even though I was awarded state

disability during my time off, I was hit badly financially. Since my

revision would be major surgery, I'm estimating I'd be off work for 4-6

weeks and I simply can't afford it moneywise especially if I have

complications.

& nbsp;

So where does that leave me? In a pickle. I'm estimating it would take

well over a & nbsp;year & nbsp;to save enough money and time off to afford

the surgery. Can I wait that long? Don't have much choice, but it's a

depressing proposition.

& nbsp;

How about changing your diet or taking Flagyl/probiotics/Immodium? Been

there, done that....nothing works. My PCP has even prescribed Lomotil

and other drugs to slow down my bowels and my body isn't fazed by them.

So each day I pray for a good day and sometimes I'm lucky and sometimes

I'm not :-( Today so far has been a good day, but my tummy has been

rumbling all day so I stayed at home to avoid/prevent an " accident. "

More and more these days I avoid leaving the house not because of rising

gas prices, but due to my " accidents. " Having WLS to lose weight was

suppose to help me rejoin and enjoy life. Having bathroom issues is

killing my life.

& nbsp;

I'm truly sorry that this is another downer post from me. I've tried to

stay positive, but sometimes you just have to vent or go crazy. For

newbies reading this post....very very few WLS patients have my problem

and those that do can control " accidents " with the use of a low fat/low

sugar/high fiber diet, Flagyl, probiotics or taking extra iron/calcium.

The vast majority of you will enjoy a wonderful weight loss experience

with the DS and Dr K. There are still times when I love having lost 200+

pounds. However when I have an " accident " I can't help but regret my

decision to have WLS. Hopefully once I have my revision, I will be able

to sing the praises of the DS but for now I simply can't :-(

& nbsp;

As for the rest of my life...I moved out from Mission Viejo in January

2008 and now live with a friend in Ontario, CA near San Bernardino. I

had to leave because my former roommates were having problems with my

smelly " accidents. " A very kind and understanding friend offered me a

place to stay (his sense of smell is terrible) and I accepted it

gratefully even & nbsp; though it meant leaving Orange County (which I

love and miss deeply). I also gave up on nursing school since I had one

too many " accidents " during my clinicals. Finally I was let go from a

job (I was still on probation) because of two particularly nasty

" accidents " I had at work. I managed to locate another job, but still

worry my bathroom issues will come back to haunt me.

& nbsp;

Right now I take each day one at a time. Currently I'm awaiting the

results of labwork that Dr K ordered for me last Friday. Lately I've

been feeling really lousy and Dr K suspects my chronic diarrhea may be

causing me to malabsorb vital nutrients. The last time I felt this way,

Dr K threatened to put me in the hospital to get infusions for iron,

calcium and protein. Unfortunately I had just lost my job so I didn't

have health insurance to go to the hospital. I ended up taking tons of

iron/calcium supplements and protein shakes and managed to nudge myself

back from danger. Since everything is flying through my system thanks to

the & nbsp;diarrhea, I won't be able to pull that trick again.

& nbsp;

Time to end this post and crawl back into lurkdom. Thanks for listening

and allowing me to vent.

& nbsp;

Banks - Ontario, CA

RNY - 12/21/00 - Pacific Bariatrics/San Diego, CA

RNY to DS Revision - 9/23/03 - Ara Keshishian/Delano, CA

& nbsp;

Highest Weight: 420 - BMI 74

RNY Pre-Op: 405 - BMI 72

DS Revision: 285 - BMI 50

Current Weight: 210 - BMI 37

210 pounds of excess weight gone

& nbsp;

Lower Body Lift performed on 11/24/04 (My 40th birthday present to

myself)

J Katzen MD - Beverly Hills, CA

& nbsp;

June 4, 2008

,

Please please please tell me they have tested you for c-diff? It would

have been on of those lovely take home and scoop up your feces and put

it in a jug and then freeze it and bring it back to the lab tests!

If not, OMG, get tested! I had c-diff for a few years and no one

(including Dr K)figured it out FOREVER. I just got lucky one day and

found a curious intern on my search for a Dr that could make me feel

better. I wont bore you with all the details unless you say that you

have not been tested. In that case, we need to talk!

I feel for you and can really understand your feelings.*hugs*

C

>

> ...frustrated/saddened by my chronic and explosive diarrhea/gas/odor

issues. ...complained of feeling nauseated. .. Hell I envy those who

have complained of constipation on this site. I've even taken large

doses of Iron and Calcium to constipate myself and if I'm lucky I firm

up to Cool Whip consistency (most time I'm literally peeing out my

butt).

> Banks - Ontario, CA

>

June 5, 2008

Wow, was that impressive and interesting. I don't have the problem, but I

learned a lot. Thanks for posting it.

Pearl

**************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch " Cooking with

Tyler Florence " on AOL Food.

(http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4? & NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

June 6, 2008

,

I read your post and I feel for you! I have had my share of accidents

and they suck! It has been a while since I had one, yet I can so relate

to having to deal with smell of gas and fecal matter permeating my skin.

Below I have listed many facts and ideas for controlling diarrhea.

Best of Luck on this part of your journey.

Diarrhea []

Also known as: Diarrhoea

Description

Diarrhea involves the chronic or acute frequent passing of loose, watery

Stools. It is a symptom of other ailments and is not itself a disease.

These Substances/Factors may Alleviate or Cure Diarrhea

Alkaloids

Berberine may alleviate Diarrhea (where Diarrhea is caused by

Detrimental Bacteria infection). references

Amino Acids

Glutamine (18 grams (18,000 mg) per day for three days prior to

the commencement of Chemotherapy) may reduce the incidence of

Gastrointestinal discomfort and Diarrhea in people undergoing

Chemotherapy. Glutamine may also shorten the duration of Diarrhea in

children with acute Diarrhea. references

Carbohydrates

Amylose that escapes digestion (i.e. Resistant Starch) may

shorten the duration of (bacterial) Diarrhea. references

Guar Gum may alleviate Diarrhea. references

Pectins may alleviate Diarrhea: [more info]

- Apple Pectin (especially when used in combination with Chamomile)

may alleviate Diarrhea. references

Psyllium may alleviate Diarrhea. references

Enzymes

Bromelain may help to prevent Diarrhea (by inhibiting the ability

of some types of Detrimental Bacteria to adhere to the lining of the

Small Intestine). references

Lactase may prevent undigested Lactose from causing Diarrhea.

references

Microorganisms

Bifidobacteria bifidus may help to prevent Diarrhea. references

Bifidobacteria bulgaricus may cure Diarrhea (by re-establishing

the Beneficial Bacteria balance within the Intestines). references

Bifidobacteria longum helps to prevent the Diarrhea that is

caused by many Pharmaceutical Antibiotics (Antibiotic-Associated

Diarrhea). references

Enterococcus faecium may help to prevent Diarrhea (where Diarrhea

is caused by Detrimental Bacteria, Detrimental Fungi or Viruses).

references

Various species of Lactobacillus may cure Diarrhea (especially

when Diarrhea is caused by Detrimental Microorganisms): references

- Lactobacillus acidophilus may cure Diarrhea (by re-establishing

the Beneficial Bacteria balance within the Intestines). references

- Lactobacillus casei may help to prevent Diarrhea (including

Traveler's Diarrhea caused by Eschericia coli). references

- Lactobacillus fermentum may alleviate Diarrhea (when Diarrhea is

caused by Detrimental Bacteria. [more info]

- Lactobacillus reuteri may alleviate Diarrhea (when Diarrhea is

caused by Rotavirus infection). references

- Lactobacillus rhamnosus may help to prevent Diarrhea. references

- Lactobacillus sporogenes may help to prevent and treat Diarrhea.

references

Saccharomyces boulardii (SB) may alleviate Diarrhea (especially

when Diarrhea is caused by infection by Clostridium difficile, Crohn's

Disease or Traveler's Diarrhea). references

Streptococcus thermophilus may help to prevent Diarrhea.

references

Minerals

Clinoptilolite (a type of Zeolite) may help to prevent Diarrhea.

references

Infant Diarrhea may occur as a symptom of Copper deficiency.

[more info]

The Iron Phosphate form of Iron may alleviate Diarrhea. [more

info]

Diarrhea may cause the excretion of Magnesium (indicating that

Diarrhea patients may benefit from supplemental Magnesium to replace

their depleted Magnesium reserves) and Diarrhea may occur as a result of

Magnesium deficiency. references

Diarrhea may cause excessive excretion of Potassium (indicating

that Diarrhea patients should use supplemental Potassium to replace

their depleted Potassium reserves). [more info]

Sodium may alleviate some cases of Diarrhea - Diarrhea may cause

Sodium depletion. [more info]

Excessive quantities of Zinc may be excreted from the body during

Diarrhea (indicating that it may be advisable to use supplemental Zinc

during bouts of Diarrhea). Diarrhea may occur as one of the symptoms of

severe Zinc deficiency. references

Pharmaceutical Drugs

Anti-Diarrhea Pharmaceutical Drugs are used to stop the loose,

watery stools that occur in Diarrhea:

- Loperamide (Imodium) is used for the treatment of the symptoms of

Diarrhea (including Traveler's Diarrhea and the Diarrhea that occurs as

a result of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Food Poisoning).

Polyphenols

Anthocyanosides may cure Diarrhea. [more info]

Quercetin may be an effective treatment for Diarrhea. references

Vitamins

Chronic long-term Diarrhea patients are at risk of Folic Acid

deficiency and supplemental Folic Acid may reduce the duration of

Diarrhea caused by infections. Folic Acid may also help to repair

Diarrhea-induced damage to the Intestines. references

Diarrhea may occur as a result of Vitamin A deficiency:

- Supplemental Vitamin A significantly reduces the incidence of

(childhood) Diarrhea. references

Diarrhea may occur as a result of Vitamin K deficiency. [more

info]

These Foods/Herbs may Alleviate (or Cure) Diarrhea

Bee Foods

Honey may alleviate the Diarrhea associated with Gastroenteritis

(by destroying the Detrimental Bacteria that are implicated in

Gastroenteritis). references

Propolis may alleviate (Traveler's) Diarrhea. references

Dairy Foods

Colostrum (Bovine Colostrum) may be an effective treatment for

Diarrhea (due to its ability to improve the health of the Intestinal

Wall and to suppress various Detrimental Microorganisms that cause

Diarrhea). references

Yogurt may alleviate Diarrhea (due to the Bifidobacteria

bulgaricus and Lactobacillus acidophilus in many brands of Yogurt).

references

Fruit

Bananas (mashed) may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

Bilberry may alleviate Diarrhea. references

Blackberry (especially Blackberry root and/or leaves) may

alleviate Diarrhea (due to the Polyphenols/Tannins content of

Blackberries). references

Blackcurrants may prevent and treat Diarrhea (due to the

Anthocyanosides content of Blackcurrants inhibiting the growth of

Eschericia Coli). references

Blueberries may be an effective cure for many cases of Diarrhea

(the Anthocyanosides in Blueberries may kill many of the Detrimental

Bacteria that cause Diarrhea). references

Grains

Oatmeal may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

Herbs

Barberry may alleviate Diarrhea (where Diarrhea is caused by

Detrimental Bacteria infection). [more info]

Bayberry may alleviate Diarrhea. references

Black Walnut may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

Blackberry Root may alleviate Diarrhea (due to the high content

of Tannins present in Blackberry Root). references

Carob (15 grams per day) may alleviate Diarrhea (due to the high

content of Polyphenols in Carob). references

Chamomile (especially when used in combination with Apple Pectin)

may alleviate Diarrhea. references

Cinchona (bark) has been used as a traditional treatment for

Diarrhea (according to folklore). [more info]

Cocoa may help to prevent Diarrhea (due to Polyphenols present in

Cocoa). references

Goldenseal may alleviate Diarrhea (where Diarrhea is caused by

Detrimental Bacteria infection). references

Green Tea may alleviate Diarrhea (due to the Tea Polyphenols in

Green Tea). [more info]

Guava Leaf (tea) may alleviate Diarrhea. references

Hawthorn (berries) may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

Marshmallow may alleviate the discomfort associated with Diarrhea

by minimizing the Inflammation of the Intestinal Wall that occurs during

Diarrhea (due to the Mucilages content of Marshmallow). [more info]

Olive Leaf may alleviate Diarrhea (where Diarrhea is caused by

Detrimental Microorganisms). references

Oregon Grape may alleviate Diarrhea (where Diarrhea is caused by

Detrimental Bacteria infection). [more info]

Paprika may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

Peppermint may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

Pseudowintera colorata may alleviate Diarrhea (according to New

Zealand Maori folklore). [more info]

Sangre de Grado may be useful for the treatment of Diarrhea.

references

Schizandra reputedly alleviates Diarrhea (according to folklore).

[more info]

Slippery Elm may alleviate the discomfort associated with

Diarrhea by minimizing the Inflammation of the Intestinal Wall that

occurs during Diarrhea (due to the Mucilages content of Slippery Elm).

[more info]

White Oak Bark may alleviate (chronic) Diarrhea (due to its high

content of Tannins). [more info]

Yarrow may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

Yellow Dock may alleviate Diarrhea (Due to Tannins in Yellow

Dock): [more info]

- However excessive dosages of Yellow Dock can paradoxically CAUSE

Diarrhea.

Legumes

Black Beans may alleviate Diarrhea (according to Japanese

pharmacists). [more info]

Mineral Substances

Bentonite Clay may adsorb poisons from the intestinal tract and

may thereby alleviate Diarrhea. references

Charcoal may alleviate many cases of Diarrhea (by removing the

underlying toxins that often cause Diarrhea). It may be effective in

cases of Diarrhea caused by Nervousness, Food Poisoning and Detrimental

Bacteria. references

Oils

Oregano Oil (consumed orally) is claimed to alleviate Diarrhea.

references

Processed Foods

Chocolate (dark Chocolate) may help to prevent Diarrhea (due to

the high Polyphenols content of dark Chocolate). references

Cider Vinegar may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

Seeds

Psyllium Seeds may alleviate Diarrhea (due to the Psyllium

content of Psyllium Seeds). references

Vegetables

Fennel may alleviate Diarrhea (by modifying the Detrimental

Bacteria that reside in the Small Intestine). [more info]

Radish may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

Yeasts

Brewer's Yeast (9,000 mg per day) may alleviate Diarrhea (when

Diarrhea is caused by Detrimental Bacteria such as Clostridium

difficile). references

Other Factors that may Alleviate Diarrhea

Fasting may alleviate Diarrhea. [more info]

These Substances may Cause/Exacerbate Diarrhea

Amino Acids

Supplemental 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) may cause Diarrhea in

some persons. references

Excessive consumption of dietary Taurine may cause Diarrhea.

Carbohydrates

Dextran Sulfate may cause mild Diarrhea in some persons.

Excessive consumption of Fructose may cause Diarrhea (especially

in persons who are Fructose Intolerant). references

Undigested Lactose (which occurs due to Lactase deficiency) may

cause Diarrhea.

Modified Citrus Pectin may cause Diarrhea (described as loose

stools) in some people. This side effect is generally not severe enough

to warrant the discontinuation of MCP usage. references

Microorganisms

Infection of the Intestines by various types of Detrimental

Bacteria may cause Diarrhea:

- Excessive proliferation of Bacteroides fragilis may cause

Diarrhea:

- Diarrhea in children aged 1- 5 is commonly caused by Bacteroides

fragilis.

- Excessive proliferation of Bacteroides fragilis can also cause

Diarrhea in adults (more commonly in adults with Inflammatory Bowel

Disease).

- Brachyspira hyodysenteriae infection may cause Diarrhea.

references

- Campylobacter infection may cause Diarrhea:

- Campylobacter jejuni may cause Diarrhea. Campylobacter Food

Poisoning results from the ingestion of Campylobacter

jejuni-contaminated Water, Milk or undercooked Foods. Outbreaks

resulting from ingestion of raw Clams have been reported.

- Diarrhea may cause as a result of Campylobacter intestinalis Food

Poisoning.

- Infection by Clostridium difficile may cause Diarrhea.

- Infection by Clostridium welchii may cause Diarrhea.

- Excessive proliferation of Eschericia coli may cause Diarrhea

(when Diarrhea is caused by Eschericia coli it is known medically as

Colibacillosis or Enteric Colibacillosis).

- Diarrhea may occur as the primary symptom of Listeria

monocytogenes Food Poisoning.

- Proteus inconstans infection (occasionally) may cause Diarrhea.

- Infection by Salmonella (as commonly occurs in Food Poisoning)

may cause Diarrhea within 12 - 36 hours of Salmonella ingestion and

usually lasts for 1-8 days.

- Food Poisoning caused by Shigella dysenteriae infection may cause

Diarrhea.

- Food Poisoning caused by Staphylococci aureus infection may cause

Diarrhea.

- Food Poisoning caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection may

cause (bloody) Diarrhea.

Excessive proliferation of Candida albicans in the Digestive

System may cause Diarrhea. references

Some types of Detrimental Protozoa may cause Diarrhea:

- Blastocystis hominis may cause Diarrhea. references

- Cryptosporidium infection may cause Diarrrhea (mild Diarrhea in

people whose Immune System is competent, and severe (sometimes fatal)

Diarrhea in people whose Immune System is impaired).

Cryptosporodium-induced Diarrhea is known medically as

Cryptosporidiosis.

- Dientamoeba fragilis may cause Diarrhea. references

Infection of the Intestine with Viruses may cause Diarrhea:

- Diarrhea may occur as a primary symptom of Rotavirus infection

(Rotavirus is the most common cause of Diarrhea in young children).

Diarrhea caused by Rotavirus infection is commonly referred to as

" Stomach Flu " . Rotavirus has been estimated to cause from 30% to 50% of

all cases of severe Diarrhea.

Minerals

Excessive consumption of Barium may cause Diarrhea.

Blood Plasma levels of Lithium above 1 mg per 100 ml may cause

Diarrhea.

Excessive consumption of Phosphorus (more than 1 gram per day)

may cause Diarrhea.

Excessive Vanadium may cause Diarrhea. references

Organic Acids

Supplemental Pyruvic Acid (in doses above 18,000 mg (18 grams)

per day) causes Diarrhea in approximately 35% of people. references

Pharmaceutical Drugs

Acyclovir may cause Diarrhea.

Amphotericin B may cause Diarrhea.

Clotrimazole may cause Diarrhea in some people.

Colchicine may cause Diarrhea (this is a frequent side effect of

Colchicine therapy).

COX-2 Inhibitors may cause Diarrhea in some people.

Fenfluramine may cause Diarrhea in some people.

Fluorouracil may cause Diarrhea.

Hydrochloroquine may cause Diarrhea.

Methotrexate may cause (due to the damage it causes to the Small

Intestine).

Nelfinavir may cause Diarrhea.

Nitazoxanide (NTZ) may cause Diarrhea.

Nystatin may cause Diarrhea.

Pharmaceutical Antibiotics may cause Diarrhea (Diarrhea caused by

the use of Pharmaceutical Antibiotics is known as Antibiotic-Associated

Diarrhea (AAD): references

- Azithromycin may cause Diarrhea.

- Ciprofloxacin may cause Diarrhea.

- Clindamycin may cause Diarrhea in some people.

- Clarithromycin may (infrequently) cause Diarrhea.

- Paromomycin may cause Diarrhea.

Ritonavir may cause Diarrhea.

Saquinavir may cause Diarrhea.

Tacrine may cause Diarrhea as a side effect in 5% of persons.

Warfarin may (infrequently) cause Diarrhea.

Zidovudine (AZT) may cause Diarrhea.

Smart Drugs

Diarrhea may occuras a temporary initial side effect of Xanthinol

Nicotinate usage - this side effect usually disappears after continued

usage of Xanthinol Nicotinate.

Vasopressin may cause mild Diarrhea.

Sugar Alcohols

Excessive consumption of Mannitol may cause Diarrhea.

Excessive consumption of Sorbitol may cause Diarrhea. references

Vitamins

Excessive consumption of the Choline Bitartrate or Choline

Chloride forms of Choline may cause Diarrhea.

Excessive consumption (dosages above 100 mg per day) of the

Nicotinic Acid form of Vitamin B3 may cause Diarrhea (rarely) in some

persons.

Excessive consumption of Para Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA) may cause

Diarrhea.

Diarrhea may occur as a result of excessive Vitamin C

consumption:

- This may be useful as it signals an individuals Bowel Tolerance

Level for Vitamin C at a given point in time and is easily remedied by

slightly decreasing Vitamin C consumption.

Excessive consumption of Vitamin D may cause Diarrhea.

Volatile Oils

Thymol (when ingested orally in doses greater than 67 mg) may

cause Diarrhea.

These Foods/Herbs may Cause Diarrhea

Grains

Excessive consumption of Wheat Bran may cause Diarrhea.

references

Herbs

Excessive consumption of Aloe vera (juice) may cause Diarrhea.

Cascara sagrada may cause Diarrhea (its primary use is as a

laxative for the treatment of Constipation).

Excessive consumption of Ginsengs occasionally causes Diarrhea.

Excessive consumption of Yellow Dock may cause Diarrhea (although

paradoxically, non-excessive ingestion of Yellow Docks helps to

alleviate Diarrhea).

Oils (dietary Oils)

Fish Oils (in the form of concentrated supplements) may cause

Diarrhea in some people. references

Excessive consumption of Olive Oil may cause mild Diarrhea.

references

Vegetables

Excessive consumption of raw Garlic may cause Diarrhea.

Diarrhea may Cause these Complications

Metabolism

Diarrhea may cause Acidosis (through excessive loss of Alkaline

substances through the Intestinal Tract).

Nervous System

Diarrhea may cause excessive Thirst.

Diarrhea may occur as a Symptom of these Ailments

Alcohol-Related Disorders

Hangovers may cause Diarrhea (approximately 36% of persons with a

Hangover experience Diarrhea). references

Digestive System

Diarrhea may occur as a result of Candida albicans

over-proliferation.

Untreated Celiac Disease patients often experience Diarrhea.

references

Bloody, mucous-filled Diarrhea may occur as a symptom of Colitis.

Crohn's Disease may cause Diarrhea.

Diarrhea may occur as a symptom of Diverticulitis.

Painful, severe Diarrhea may occur as a symptom of Dysentery.

Gastroenteritis may cause Diarrhea.

Diarrhea may occur as a symptom of Giardiasis.

Frequent Diarrhea may occur as one of the symptoms of Intestinal

Permeability. references

Chronic Diarrhea (alternated with bouts of Constipation) that

continues for many years may occur as a symptom of (many, but not all

cases of) Irritable Bowel Syndrome. references

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth Syndrome may cause

Diarrhea. references

Bloody Diarrhea may occur as a symptom of Ulcerative Colitis.

Diarrhea may occur as a result of Zollinger-Ellinson Syndrome.

Immune System

Infection by the HIV virus that is implicated in Acquired Immune

Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) may cause Diarrhea.

Diarrhea may occur as a side effect of many forms of Food

Poisoning.

Metabolism

Fructose Intolerance may cause Diarrhea (if Fructose is

consumed). references

Nervous System

Diarrhea may be caused by Anxiety.

Many Autism patients have chronic Diarrhea (Diarrhea in Autism

patients may be caused by chronic Constipation - during such

Constipation only liquid is able to pass a constipated stool mass in the

Intestines). references

Related Topics

Dysentery

Digestive System Ailments

Copyright (Hyperhealth Pro 6.0, 2006)

In-Tele-Health C 2006 (from Hyperhealth Pro CD-ROM)

Daryl & Renie H

Dr. K 7-14-08

Feeling Depressed and Ambivalent (very