QuestionHi, I live in the UK and just had my VSG on 6th May, was discharged home on 8th May and have been feeling very good indeed - no pain! However, yesterday evening I needed to go to the toilet and it was difficult and sore and seemed like a bit of a prolapse. I wanted to strain as I could feel a blockage, but it makes me feel faint to do so. I took Fybogel 2 days ago in the evening, and again last night, to see if I could get myself moving. I know that I'm still on free fluids only for another week (according to my consultant) and that I'm not therefore consuming anything that might need passing, but I should like to get back to my regular bowel habit, which was once a day at 8am regular as Old Faithful! Any chance of some advice? I'd appreciate all the experience/help you can share. Thanks.
AnswerHi Vicki:
First off, congratulations on your successful surgery. I'm so happy to hear that you're doing well.
Constipation is really common in the early post-op phases of a VSG, and is actually common post-surgery of most kinds. I'm not familiar with Fybogel, but I'm assuming it's a fiber supplement--maybe a powder or capsule. You might want to check with your surgeon about getting a prescription (if necessary, or simply a recommendation) for a stool softener. That should help. I know of a few Over-The-Counter Brands here in the States, but I'm not familiar with the U.K. market. A natural remedy that sometimes works is simply to have hot water and lemon in the morning.
As you suspect, once you move to more regular foods, things should get better. I know for "mushies/pureees" in the States, many people do a watery porridge which can help. You can also puree high fiber fruits like berries.
Some VSG patients find that once they're on solids a small bowl of high fiber breakfast cereal is all they need to keep them regular.
I hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Karla
