Post-surgical gas may be caused by pain meds

Dr. Gott — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 05:01:21 +0000

DEAR DR. GOTT: In a recent article, someone was asking why they started vomiting and having gas after having had surgery the day before. I have experienced this after some of my surgeries and for me, it was that I can’t tolerate certain pain medications. Once I am switched to one I can handle, everything gets better.

Just an idea, for what it’s worth. I always read your column and enjoy it.

DEAR READER: Your idea definitely has merit. Medication sensitivity can cause a host of difficulties, including stomach upset, itching, nausea, allergic reaction and more. Pain medication, especially narcotics, is especially known for causing gastric issues in some users and addiction (typically in chronic users).

I have printed your letter as a reminder to patients that it is important to write down all medications, the reason for taking them, dosages, frequency of use, date started/discontinued and any symptoms that may present. Even a medication that had been previously used or has been taken for years can suddenly cause problems. By keeping an accurate log of this information, you and your doctor can more easily determine whether one or more of your pills is causing the issue.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Consumer Tips on Medicine”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order payable to Newsletter and forwarded to PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-9167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form from my website, www.AskDrGottMD.com.

Pain persists after gallbladder removal

Dr. Gott — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 05:00:03 +0000

DEAR DR. GOTT: Since I had my non-functioning gallbladder removed six months ago, I continue to have occasional discomfort where it used to be. It can be random sharp pains to a dull ache and does not seem to be affected by food. It is always in the same spot (right upper quadrant, beneath the rib cage) and sometimes the pain will radiate to my back. Some of my co-workers also have similar symptoms that have continued since their gallbladder removals. I am a nurse and we often talk about our various symptoms.

Can you give me any insight into this phenomenon?

DEAR READER: Your experience appears to be common among individuals who have had gallbladder removal surgery. In fact is it so common it has been titled postcholecystectomy syndrome. It occurs in 5-40% of all patients following gallbladder removal.

Symptoms may include persistent upper right abdomen pain, gas, bloating, nausea, upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea. Diarrhea from this disorder can be eased by taking the medication cholestyramine.

Pain that persists should be followed up with your gastroenterologist to ensure that another condition, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, pancreatitis, peptic ulcers, or sludge in the bile duct are not to blame.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Gallbladder Disease”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed 4 ¼” X 9 ½” letter-sized stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Ask Dr. Gott » bloating

Post-surgical gas may be caused by pain meds

Pain persists after gallbladder removal