9 years ago had VSG lost 150 pounds.

Okay so my last post I was bleeding out, fatigued and on my deathbed.

Also previous to VSG had gall bladder and appendix removed.


I found out some of my issues-

First thing discovered: Kidney Stones in both kidneys- about 6 of them. uh these just suck and hurt. No other comment about them. They were caused by Lasix water pills.

2nd Thing: Pernicious Anemia: caused by the VSG. Pernicious anemia is a vitamin b12 deficiency, it causes poor blood cell production, and extreme itching of the skin. It also causes mild fatigue. Sublingual b-12 3 times a day as needed and benadryl twice a day.

3rd Thing: Normal Anemia: Caused by blood loss. Some Upper Gi bleeding as well- but it stopped. Aggravated by blood thinners to treat DVT (clots in my legs). Treated with Iron and Potassium, plus a high protein diet.

4th thing: Blood in kidneys- this was caused by stones and also led doctor to have me tested for colon cancer via blood test.

5th thing: Blood Test (colovantage) positive for colon cancer


6th thing: I have colon cancer. Will be having 24" of my ascending colon removed next wed 6/3.
BUT... the docs dont think the cancer caused the bleeding or the pain in my descending colon or transverse colon.
I had an upper Gi colonoscopy (EGD) and a lower gi colonoscopy. The stomach from the VSG looked great.
My bleeding is a Combination of tumor and polyps and hemorrhoidal artery.

7th thing: PET confirmed the cancer and showed it was only in the colon. Doc said this will be a lot easier surgery than my VSG was.

8th Thing oncologist suspects I may have a blockage in my small intestine- but its not a tumor or cancer so they wont mess with that till my cancer surgery is done and they have a diagnosis of what stage of cancer type etc. treating with Colace to keep a soft stool.


I learned from the oncologist that bariatric surgery has high correlation with colon cancer. Not that it causes it, but that there is a high incidence of cancer and weight loss surgery.

The Colonvantage blood test I think cost me $75, and is 70% to 80% accurate in detecting colon cancer. I suggest that you get checked every couple years.

This helps to know, Liz, thank you. During this pandemic, I've been trying to closely stay on an eating plan based on tips I find here until I meet with the RD in roughly two weeks and I have been able to drop a few pounds while doing it. Having a mid-afternoon protein snack sounds like maybe a good idea for me, since when it's time to start dinner I'm very hungry and can tend to grab something like a cracker snack. Protein can help hold off the hunger longer. I've seen people write that this is not an easy journey but it's worth it, so I'm try to journal and set up some good habits on the beginning side. Appreciate your input. Have a nice weekend!

So here I go...I have decided on a surgeon and I have my first Virtual Visit with a dietitian two weeks from now. I have been keeping food logs all during COVID-19 and have lost some weight during this time by following tips I have found here and by replacing some meals with protein shakes. How easy is it to work with your dietitian? Did you find them to be really helpful? I'm just a bit nervous since it seems like all dietitians are skinny as heck, but I guess they should be healthier if they are practicing what they preach, right? I just need my nerves calmed I guess! I'd better take a walk! Thanks for any info you can provide on what it was like to work with your RD!

Good Morning!
I wrote this blog post for any moms out there looking to lose weight after their pregnancy, and after they've had the Gastric Sleeve Surgery.

https://www.endobariatric.com/weblog/2020/05/13/losing-weigh t-after-your-pregnancy-and-gastric-sleeve-surgery/

Regards
Dr. Alvarez

Congratulations! I had my VSG at 61 and it was the best decision I ever made too. Remember that life will throw curve balls at you, but remember how good you feel now and keep using your "tool" (VSG) to help you maintain your physical health.