bloated painful stomach unable to eat

[kacychristian]

I am 44 years old female who underwent tummy tuck for excessive skin (3 kids) in Dec 2007. Prior to the tummy tuck I lead a very healthy and active ( 5'5 and 124lbs) life. Since the surgery I have had tremendous stomach pain with even worse  constipation (had prior constipation). I am unable to eat or drink much of anything without feeling bloated with extreme pain in stomach region. Have had endoscopy (and capsule endoscopy), colonscopy, upper and lower bowels tests. One GI physician diagnosed the catch all diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome. Another thinks it may be a stomach motility issue as the capsule endoscopy indicated an exceedingly long time for the capsule/camera to leave the stomach.  My question is could the tummy tuck have injured the stomach ? The second what do I do here. I have an appt with yet another physician (motility specialist) in 2.5 weeks. I am desperate and need help and direction. Very exhausted and feel very defeated. Terrible feeling.

[ayri]

hi, i think you might have a bacterial infection, or parasite infestation, did your gp prescribe anti-biotics? cheers.

[Fuzzz]

I don't think it's the tummy tuck surgery.  It could be hormonal (I'm about your age).  Gallbladder disease can slow the digestive tract.  

I have a twisted colon, so I've battled lifelong constipation.  MiraLax is what works for me.  You can feel better.  Just mix the powder in juice or other beverage and drink it in the evening.  I can't taste it in juice at all, and it dissolves completely.  It is an over-the-counter powder, and much more effective than bulk laxatives like Metamucil.  When I'm as uncomfortable as you are, I also use a glycerine suppository to get things started.  That gives quick relief when used along with MiraLax.