Post-Bariatric Surgery Stomach Spasms: Causes & When to Worry

Question
Hello,

I am now in my 3rd day of post lap band surgery.  I started to experience stomach rolling/spasm the second day after surgery.  I called my doctors office and was told by the nurse that this was probably being caused by the carbon dioxide in my stomach cavity. I am still experience this painful sensation, especially when I attempt to walk.  Can you tell me what might be causing this?  Should I be concerned?  Its Saturday and I have no way to contact my doctor.  Should I go to the emergency room?

Answer
Yvonne,
The best answer is that you should speak to your surgeon or whoever is covering for him/her.  It would be very unusual, and even concerning, if your doctor or some designated person is not available 24/7 for their surgical patients.

Regarding whether you should go to the ER, I'm really not in a position to answer that since I was not involved in your procedure and since I have no way to follow through for you.  I can say that if you are worried enough to ask the question then it is probably smart for you to go and be checked.

Best of luck,
Dr JP