Who's had their gallbladder out?

Locarb4me · 05-06-2008, 08:49 PM

And if you're low carbing, what effect did it have on your ability to consume fats? Proteins?

Mine has been acting up for a little over a year. I went today for a HIDA scan, so soon I should hear my doctor's recommendations.

I'm pretty much one of those who thinks if you were born with it, must be a good reason to have it there. But I have heard anecdotal stories that people who had the GB removed felt much better and even their "acid reflux" problems disappeared afterward. I'm not sure how they are related but I've heard/read it more than once.

That is the part that does intrigue me and might make it worth it. My stomach hurts all the time. Burning pain and about the only relief is Gaviscon or coconut oil.

For some strange reason, suddenly eggs nauseate me. I like the taste of them but I want to gag trying to eat them. What is THAT about??

DeliGirl · 05-06-2008, 09:36 PM

I had mine out laproscopically in 2003 and the only difference I've noticed, is that I no longer get the attacks. I have 2 tiny scars that I can see and 2 that I can't even find anymore. I can eat what I want. People always told me that if I ate too much fat, I'd get the runs, but I haven't had that prob.

I'm sure everyone's different.

mamagiff · 05-06-2008, 09:36 PM

I can't answer your questions but had the same test a couple weeks ago and am scheduled for surgery on Monday. Apparently my gallbladder is functioning at 2% right now. I haven't really had any symptoms other than what I thought was heartburn. I had a CT scan for something else last year and it was noted (as a side note) that there were gallstones. I didn't know till a little over a month ago. I assume that they thought I knew about the gallstones since I was getting the scan for a different issue so they didn't mention it.

I have found that telling someone you are have gb surgery is like telling someone you are pregnant. You get everyone's story of their experience. I've heard many stories and they are all different!

Hope all goes well for you!

mamagiff · 05-06-2008, 09:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DeliGirl

I had mine out laproscopically in 2003 and the only difference I've noticed, is that I no longer get the attacks. I have 2 tiny scars that I can see and 2 that I can't even find anymore. I can eat what I want. People always told me that if I ate too much fat, I'd get the runs, but I haven't had that prob.

I'm sure everyone's different.

Hi Ang!!!

DeliGirl · 05-06-2008, 11:03 PM

Hi

Like you said, everyone's got their story and each one is different.

luckiangel · 05-07-2008, 12:44 AM

I had mine out in 2000. My gall bladder stopped working all together and the only way we knew is that i had a horrible fever. Never had an attack itself thankfully. I haven't had too much trouble since then...my lipids are normal but my liver is taking a beating...i finally got my enzymes in the normal realm the past few weeks...i believe LC is what helped get it back to normal. I detox every once in a while to make sure. I had a HIDA scan too way back when.....i ruined the tech's record by being the first to get sick on it!!! Recovery from the surgery was quick and not too bad at all. I'm happy I had it done!

Locarb4me · 05-07-2008, 05:35 PM

Thanks for the replies.

I had a feeling I would get varying stories, isn't that always the way

At least those who got their GB removed feel better as a result.

Something awful is going on with my reflux. It's been horrible all day since I awoke. I drank my coffee and it got worse. Then I could feel spasms in my chest. It got much worse at lunch, (I was out with my DD and tried to eat the top off a tuna melt) to the point I couldn't finish.

I zipped out to the drugstore and got several OTC antacids (Gaviscon always works for me). They helped about 50%. I can't eat anything now.

I have never had it this bad before. My entire belly and chest are on fire!! I have no way of knowing if it's related to yesterday's test, but I have to think something set this off.

I guess I'll find out what the results are on Friday.

Jean@125 · 05-07-2008, 06:18 PM

When I followed a low fat diet I would get attacks. They were very painful and for a few days afterwards there would be residual tenderness in the gallbladder area. Since low carbing I know longer get the attacks. Coincidence or not I am not sure, but I think I have heard low calorie and low fat diets do not allow the gallbladder to empty completely.

Chrislukey · 05-07-2008, 06:28 PM

I had my gallbladder out in 99. I had stones so I had very painful attacks. I mean worse than childbirth. But once I had it out I feel fine and my Dr. told me to go back to Atkins if I wanted.( I had to go low fat until surgery to prevent attacks) No problems since.Hope you feel better soon.
Linda good luck with your surgery Monday!

Locarb4me · 05-08-2008, 06:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mamagiff

I can't answer your questions but had the same test a couple weeks ago and am scheduled for surgery on Monday. Apparently my gallbladder is functioning at 2% right now. I haven't really had any symptoms other than what I thought was heartburn. I had a CT scan for something else last year and it was noted (as a side note) that there were gallstones. I didn't know till a little over a month ago. I assume that they thought I knew about the gallstones since I was getting the scan for a different issue so they didn't mention it.

I have found that telling someone you are have gb surgery is like telling someone you are pregnant. You get everyone's story of their experience. I've heard many stories and they are all different!

Hope all goes well for you!

I'll be thinking of you. I hope it goes very well. My sister says she wouldn't take her GB back for all the tea in China.

I don't know what happened yesterday, but man was I a sick chick. Up all night with the horrible belly. Today is better and I'm finally eating a salad. I don't know if there was something wrong with the tuna at that restaurant or if it's all related.

lisabinil · 05-08-2008, 07:04 PM

It sure sounds like the gb attacks I used to get. I have had it out since 2000 and have no problems at all and don't miss the attacks and pain.

Locarb4me · 05-08-2008, 07:12 PM

I'm just so over having a sick stomach all the time. When I started this thread I was skeptical about needing it out. The past two days have about changed my mind

I've heard a lot of people say what you said, Lisa. My mom and sister included.

lisabinil · 05-08-2008, 07:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Locarb4me

I'm just so over having a sick stomach all the time. When I started this thread I was skeptical about needing it out. The past two days have about changed my mind

I've heard a lot of people say what you said, Lisa. My mom and sister included.

It turns out I had 6 huge gallstones that the surgeon said there was no way my body could pass them or break them up. Hope you figure everything out soon.

Locarb4me · 05-08-2008, 07:48 PM

Thanks!

Houston Heather · 05-09-2008, 05:13 PM

Since we don't have insurance, and my gallbladder attacks aren't life-threatening, I'm stuck with mine for now.

I notice I get more attacks when I'm losing weight, but I heard that can happen. I also know that eating a high-fat diet works great for keeping the old gallbladder happy. I'm hoping I won't have any problems to speak of once I get to goal.

I have had stones, etc. since my late teens. It's genetic. My mother had hers out at age 16.

Good luck on your test results!

Stackeyha · 05-10-2008, 03:32 PM

Both my husband and myself have done liver cleanses and have had NO further problems...I did the first during a pregnancy and have done about 1 per year since, just as a matter of course, not because I had any further problems...on another issue I had an ultrasound done after the cleanses and my gall bladder was completely clear at that time...

we've used a couple different cleanses but my favorite is Hulda Clark's...you'll find it here ( Gallstones cleanse, gallbladder surgery and gallstones, Liver and gallbaldder gallstones flush ) ... there is also a message board there for people who have cleansed or are considering cleansing.

There are also some herbal things that can be done to boost both the liver and the gallbladder and some things that can be done to break down stones more naturally...Milk Thistle is one for strengthening the liver/gall bladder, Hydrangea extract is for breaking down stones...so is gold coin grass...but you'll want to look up each for contra-indications etc.

So there are other options that you might try prior to surgery if you are interested.

Locarb4me · 05-10-2008, 03:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stackeyha

Both my husband and myself have done liver cleanses and have had NO further problems...I did the first during a pregnancy and have done about 1 per year since, just as a matter of course, not because I had any further problems...on another issue I had an ultrasound done after the cleanses and my gall bladder was completely clear at that time...

we've used a couple different cleanses but my favorite is Hulda Clark's...you'll find it here ( Gallstones cleanse, gallbladder surgery and gallstones, Liver and gallbaldder gallstones flush ) ... there is also a message board there for people who have cleansed or are considering cleansing.

There are also some herbal things that can be done to boost both the liver and the gallbladder and some things that can be done to break down stones more naturally...Milk Thistle is one for strengthening the liver/gall bladder, Hydrangea extract is for breaking down stones...so is gold coin grass...but you'll want to look up each for contra-indications etc.

So there are other options that you might try prior to surgery if you are interested.

Oh you brave soul

I've read about Hulda's liver and gallstones cleanse. In great detail as a matter of fact

I'm not so sure I could tolerate, it but I did come *this close* to trying it last summer.

Interesting that you say it helped both of you, though.

I have been taking milk thistle for months for my liver. I haven't heard about those other things but I sure will look them up. Thanks!

Stackeyha · 05-10-2008, 04:25 PM

Tell you what...I won't lie...it's nasty...

But it's VERY short lived...you are talking about 24-48 hours of your life and done (and Hulda's is LESS than 24 hours).

With surgery, even laproscopic, you are still looking at a few days of recovery...and while many on here seem to have had good luck with the surgery, I know NO ONE in the real world who has been so lucky...I have 5 friends/family/acquaintances that went through surgery within the same year that I first cleansed (2004) and EVERY ONE of them them still has trouble with diarrhea every single day. One of them was better at around a year post-op for a few months but something shifted and she's back to being "sick" with every thing she eats.

I think that there are some folk that it absolutely wouldn't work for...but I think it's something to try BEFORE the more invasive stuff...who knows...it's possible it will fix it. And I'll tell you, the Hulda cleanse, while not pleasant is about a MILLION times better than the Lewis cleanse and pretty easy over all.

The one piece of true ADVISE that I'd give you, at least until you decide which direction you are going to go with it...the next time that you have an attack...drink APPLE JUICE and NOTHING ELSE for a couple days...

When I was having my attacks I was newly pregnant...and they would not do surgery because I was unwilling to risk the baby (she's almost 3 now)...so that was kind of a blessing...but I wasn't about to jump into the cleanse and I had a bunch of company...not exactly the prime time to have to stay near a potty...anyway, a good friend, who also happens to be a chiro, told me to do an apple juice fast...it was amazing...within just a couple glasses my pain was much less...I think I mostly fasted for 2 days (pregnant enough that actual fasting made me too sick to move so I had apple juice and crackers and toast...but after that couple of days I could eat again...I had been at the point before the apple juice where even lettuce set it off...I stayed really low fat throughout the visit and mostly vegetarian but did not have another attack. After everyone left I did the Lewis cleanse (BLECK)...but it worked and I haven't had another "Attack" since. After the pregnancy I did Lewis again, but that time from a 3 day apple juice FAST...I can't even tell you how many stones I still got...a ton.

Gotta go feed my kids...I'll be praying for you...I know this just sucks!

shykins · 05-11-2008, 11:37 AM

i had mine out almost a year ago now... the attacks were agony in the end i couldnt eat anything let alone fat (never lost weight so fast in my life lol)

i had to avoid caffiene and in the end even decaff started an attack so try and avoid that if u are feeling bad

as soon as i recovered i went back to atkins with no ill effects at all and i have not had an attack (other than the week after surgery cos a stone got lodged typical me!!!)... i occasionally get a bout of reflux but as i have a hiatus hernia as well thats not unusual

good luck and hope u get sorted soon
x

mamagiff · 05-13-2008, 12:30 PM

Well, I had the surgery yesterday and so far all is well! Very little discomfort - it feels more like I had a really hard workout and am sore from that. But I am still taking painkillers although I'm spreading them farther apart already. I will probably stop them altogether tomorrow.

No problems with food so far, either. I don't have any restrictions for food or exercise other than to not eat things that might bother me (hard to know unless I eat it first!) and to not do things if it hurts. I'm getting ready to go on the indoor bike in a few minutes and will see how long I can go. I'll pedal at a slower pace than usual but enough for it to be a bit of a workout.

Now I'm curious to see how I will feel in the next few weeks. I really didn't have any classic gallbladder symptoms but I wonder if I will notice any differences at all.

Locarb4me · 05-13-2008, 03:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mamagiff

Well, I had the surgery yesterday and so far all is well! Very little discomfort - it feels more like I had a really hard workout and am sore from that. But I am still taking painkillers although I'm spreading them farther apart already. I will probably stop them altogether tomorrow.

No problems with food so far, either. I don't have any restrictions for food or exercise other than to not eat things that might bother me (hard to know unless I eat it first!) and to not do things if it hurts. I'm getting ready to go on the indoor bike in a few minutes and will see how long I can go. I'll pedal at a slower pace than usual but enough for it to be a bit of a workout.

Now I'm curious to see how I will feel in the next few weeks. I really didn't have any classic gallbladder symptoms but I wonder if I will notice any differences at all.

Hi mamagiff! I was wondering how you fared! I'm glad to hear you are doing so well

Please do let me know how you continue to do and what differences, if any you notice as you heal and as you get back to your normal diet. You are eating low carb, right?

mamagiff · 05-14-2008, 05:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Locarb4me

Hi mamagiff! I was wondering how you fared! I'm glad to hear you are doing so well

Please do let me know how you continue to do and what differences, if any you notice as you heal and as you get back to your normal diet. You are eating low carb, right?

Thanks! I'm still doing great! Yes, I'm low carbing and eating as I normally do right from the first meal after I came home. The first night I didn't want to stand and cook so we picked up burgers from Burger King (I tossed my bun). I've had some almonds for a snack. I made cauliflower crust pizza (topped with alfredo sauce and chicken) last night for dinner and had no problem with it.

I did a half hour on the indoor bike and the only thing I can't do is lean over to use the handlebars because of the discomfort. So I just sat up straight and it was fine.

I've expected to feel worse and to have food issues but so far all is well. I just mainly feel like I'm sore from a really hard workout. I was able to do a few chores yesterday and today I'm going to attempt a light upper body weights workout as well as my time on the bike. I don't want to get too far behind on workouts. And the dr. said to do whatever I'm comfortable with!

healthy lady T · 05-15-2008, 10:35 AM

I recently had a bout of something at work. The nurse made sure the ambulance was called. I refused to let the EMT take me to the hospital and let my husband take me to my doctor. He had me complete bloodwork and a ultrasound. I am just waiting for the results. In the meantime he has me taking an acid reflux medication. My question to all of you: Did you have an ecruciating pain under your breastbone and right above your stomach? Did that spell last for about 15 minutes? I felt those systems and it was like an increase pressure. It was a horrible feeling. I am hoping at the very least it is just acid reflux. Can you all give me some feedback? Also did you find your diet and weight loss easier after your treatment?

ardawn · 05-16-2008, 04:13 PM

I never had attacks per say. I just felt very,very ill. My gallbladder was not functioning at all,and was very diseased.I had it removed last August,and I instantly felt better! I have had a few digestive issues,but it's hard to know if it's pre-menstral or is due to lack of GB. I recently started taking high quality digestive enzymes and probiotics,and what little issues I had seem much better.

Jeeper · 05-16-2008, 05:39 PM

Several people on this board have suggested gallstone flushes since I have been a member, and I always feel I have to post a cautionary note. When you start your stones moving, one can easily get stuck in the common bile duct, and you could die from it in a very short time - a few hours. IMO it's best to leave the health care to the professionals. I guess if you are absolutely, positively certain you have no stones, just fine "gravel," it might be a safe do-it-yourself procedure - but how many of us really know?

About eight years ago my stone (which I didn't realize I had) moved of its own accord and got stuck, causing my digestive juices to burn my pancreas, and I was in the hospital for two months with acute necrotizing pancreatitis. It was touch-and-go, as my breathing was suppressed and I had a horrible infection that did not respond to the first two IV antibiotics they tried. I had pseudocysts and other complications that caused me to have extensive surgery after the inflammation and infection of the pancreas subsided. I have a scar from surgery that is about 15" long, beginning at my sternum. Our insurance paid out over $250,000.

I hope you get your gall bladder taken care of ASAP, with tiny little incisions for laparoscopic surgery, and that you soon feel wonderful again!

05-06-2008, 08:49 PM	#1
Locarb4me MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Ohio, temporarily Posts: 2,002 Gallery: Locarb4me Stats: 200/188/145 WOE: Ex KK, now Atkins Start Date: 6/12/07	Who's had their gallbladder out? And if you're low carbing, what effect did it have on your ability to consume fats? Proteins? Mine has been acting up for a little over a year. I went today for a HIDA scan, so soon I should hear my doctor's recommendations. I'm pretty much one of those who thinks if you were born with it, must be a good reason to have it there. But I have heard anecdotal stories that people who had the GB removed felt much better and even their "acid reflux" problems disappeared afterward. I'm not sure how they are related but I've heard/read it more than once. That is the part that does intrigue me and might make it worth it. My stomach hurts all the time. Burning pain and about the only relief is Gaviscon or coconut oil. For some strange reason, suddenly eggs nauseate me. I like the taste of them but I want to gag trying to eat them. What is THAT about?? __________________ Considering Kimkins? Click Here --------------------------- Want to see Heidi Diaz (Kimmer) brought to Justice? Join the Lawsuit "The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it." -A. Einstein

05-06-2008, 09:36 PM	#3
mamagiff Bike Tart Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: right down the road from Bong Recreation Area! Posts: 30,494 Gallery: mamagiff WOE: Switched to Atkins Start Date: 3/24/08	I can't answer your questions but had the same test a couple weeks ago and am scheduled for surgery on Monday. Apparently my gallbladder is functioning at 2% right now. I haven't really had any symptoms other than what I thought was heartburn. I had a CT scan for something else last year and it was noted (as a side note) that there were gallstones. I didn't know till a little over a month ago. I assume that they thought I knew about the gallstones since I was getting the scan for a different issue so they didn't mention it. I have found that telling someone you are have gb surgery is like telling someone you are pregnant. You get everyone's story of their experience. I've heard many stories and they are all different! Hope all goes well for you! __________________ Linda We gladly feast on those who would subdue us! - Addams Family Creed My Space and My bike rides 952.7/bike miles in 2008

05-07-2008, 12:44 AM	#6
luckiangel Very Gabby LCF Member!!! Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Douglas, Arizona Posts: 4,556 Blog Entries: 8 Gallery: luckiangel Stats: 305/266/150 WOE: Ultrametabolism/Curves Start Date: 10/2003-start over 7/27/08	I had mine out in 2000. My gall bladder stopped working all together and the only way we knew is that i had a horrible fever. Never had an attack itself thankfully. I haven't had too much trouble since then...my lipids are normal but my liver is taking a beating...i finally got my enzymes in the normal realm the past few weeks...i believe LC is what helped get it back to normal. I detox every once in a while to make sure. I had a HIDA scan too way back when.....i ruined the tech's record by being the first to get sick on it!!! Recovery from the surgery was quick and not too bad at all. I'm happy I had it done! __________________ The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing it ~ Chinese Proverb "We must be the change we want to see in the world." —Gandhi You are who you think you are ~Harper Save a Life Challenge~ 285, 274, 269, 266 www.myspace.com/oneluckiangel

05-07-2008, 06:18 PM	#8
Jean@125 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: MD Posts: 1,194 Gallery: Jean@125 Stats: 166/156/125 5'2 WOE: low carb Start Date: start 5/31/08	When I followed a low fat diet I would get attacks. They were very painful and for a few days afterwards there would be residual tenderness in the gallbladder area. Since low carbing I know longer get the attacks. Coincidence or not I am not sure, but I think I have heard low calorie and low fat diets do not allow the gallbladder to empty completely. Last edited by Jean@125 : 05-07-2008 at 06:31 PM.

05-10-2008, 03:32 PM	#16
Stackeyha Senior LCF Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: TEXAS Posts: 611 Gallery: Stackeyha WOE: Low Carb/Whole Foods Only	Both my husband and myself have done liver cleanses and have had NO further problems...I did the first during a pregnancy and have done about 1 per year since, just as a matter of course, not because I had any further problems...on another issue I had an ultrasound done after the cleanses and my gall bladder was completely clear at that time... we've used a couple different cleanses but my favorite is Hulda Clark's...you'll find it here ( Gallstones cleanse, gallbladder surgery and gallstones, Liver and gallbaldder gallstones flush ) ... there is also a message board there for people who have cleansed or are considering cleansing. There are also some herbal things that can be done to boost both the liver and the gallbladder and some things that can be done to break down stones more naturally...Milk Thistle is one for strengthening the liver/gall bladder, Hydrangea extract is for breaking down stones...so is gold coin grass...but you'll want to look up each for contra-indications etc. So there are other options that you might try prior to surgery if you are interested. __________________ Stack Wife to Dave, Momma to Bean, Bear, and Monkey Face, Homemaker and Homeschooler Last edited by Stackeyha : 05-10-2008 at 03:33 PM.

05-06-2008, 09:36 PM	#2
DeliGirl MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: BC Canada Posts: 1,070 Gallery: DeliGirl	I had mine out laproscopically in 2003 and the only difference I've noticed, is that I no longer get the attacks. I have 2 tiny scars that I can see and 2 that I can't even find anymore. I can eat what I want. People always told me that if I ate too much fat, I'd get the runs, but I haven't had that prob. I'm sure everyone's different.

05-06-2008, 11:03 PM	#5
DeliGirl MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: BC Canada Posts: 1,070 Gallery: DeliGirl	Hi Like you said, everyone's got their story and each one is different.

05-07-2008, 05:35 PM	#7
Locarb4me MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Ohio, temporarily Posts: 2,002 Gallery: Locarb4me Stats: 200/188/145 WOE: Ex KK, now Atkins Start Date: 6/12/07	Thanks for the replies. I had a feeling I would get varying stories, isn't that always the way At least those who got their GB removed feel better as a result. Something awful is going on with my reflux. It's been horrible all day since I awoke. I drank my coffee and it got worse. Then I could feel spasms in my chest. It got much worse at lunch, (I was out with my DD and tried to eat the top off a tuna melt) to the point I couldn't finish. I zipped out to the drugstore and got several OTC antacids (Gaviscon always works for me). They helped about 50%. I can't eat anything now. I have never had it this bad before. My entire belly and chest are on fire!! I have no way of knowing if it's related to yesterday's test, but I have to think something set this off. I guess I'll find out what the results are on Friday.

05-07-2008, 06:28 PM	#9
Chrislukey Senior LCF Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Chesterton Indiana Posts: 528 Gallery: Chrislukey Stats: 149/137/125 WOE: Atkins Start Date: Started Atkins 1999/Restart 2008	I had my gallbladder out in 99. I had stones so I had very painful attacks. I mean worse than childbirth. But once I had it out I feel fine and my Dr. told me to go back to Atkins if I wanted.( I had to go low fat until surgery to prevent attacks) No problems since.Hope you feel better soon. Linda good luck with your surgery Monday!

05-08-2008, 07:04 PM	#11
lisabinil Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: suburbs of Chicago Posts: 8,773 Gallery: lisabinil Stats: 214/185/180 287 in 00 WOE: higher carb Atkins Start Date: SBD 3/5/07,Atkins 4/18/07	It sure sounds like the gb attacks I used to get. I have had it out since 2000 and have no problems at all and don't miss the attacks and pain.

05-08-2008, 07:12 PM	#12
Locarb4me MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Ohio, temporarily Posts: 2,002 Gallery: Locarb4me Stats: 200/188/145 WOE: Ex KK, now Atkins Start Date: 6/12/07	I'm just so over having a sick stomach all the time. When I started this thread I was skeptical about needing it out. The past two days have about changed my mind I've heard a lot of people say what you said, Lisa. My mom and sister included.

05-08-2008, 07:48 PM	#14
Locarb4me MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Ohio, temporarily Posts: 2,002 Gallery: Locarb4me Stats: 200/188/145 WOE: Ex KK, now Atkins Start Date: 6/12/07	Thanks!

05-09-2008, 05:13 PM	#15
Houston Heather Very Gabby LCF Member!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 3,537 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: I lost it before and I'll lose it again! WOE: Atkins 2002 + powerlifting and running	Since we don't have insurance, and my gallbladder attacks aren't life-threatening, I'm stuck with mine for now. I notice I get more attacks when I'm losing weight, but I heard that can happen. I also know that eating a high-fat diet works great for keeping the old gallbladder happy. I'm hoping I won't have any problems to speak of once I get to goal. I have had stones, etc. since my late teens. It's genetic. My mother had hers out at age 16. Good luck on your test results!

05-10-2008, 04:25 PM	#18
Stackeyha Senior LCF Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: TEXAS Posts: 611 Gallery: Stackeyha WOE: Low Carb/Whole Foods Only	Tell you what...I won't lie...it's nasty... But it's VERY short lived...you are talking about 24-48 hours of your life and done (and Hulda's is LESS than 24 hours). With surgery, even laproscopic, you are still looking at a few days of recovery...and while many on here seem to have had good luck with the surgery, I know NO ONE in the real world who has been so lucky...I have 5 friends/family/acquaintances that went through surgery within the same year that I first cleansed (2004) and EVERY ONE of them them still has trouble with diarrhea every single day. One of them was better at around a year post-op for a few months but something shifted and she's back to being "sick" with every thing she eats. I think that there are some folk that it absolutely wouldn't work for...but I think it's something to try BEFORE the more invasive stuff...who knows...it's possible it will fix it. And I'll tell you, the Hulda cleanse, while not pleasant is about a MILLION times better than the Lewis cleanse and pretty easy over all. The one piece of true ADVISE that I'd give you, at least until you decide which direction you are going to go with it...the next time that you have an attack...drink APPLE JUICE and NOTHING ELSE for a couple days... When I was having my attacks I was newly pregnant...and they would not do surgery because I was unwilling to risk the baby (she's almost 3 now)...so that was kind of a blessing...but I wasn't about to jump into the cleanse and I had a bunch of company...not exactly the prime time to have to stay near a potty...anyway, a good friend, who also happens to be a chiro, told me to do an apple juice fast...it was amazing...within just a couple glasses my pain was much less...I think I mostly fasted for 2 days (pregnant enough that actual fasting made me too sick to move so I had apple juice and crackers and toast...but after that couple of days I could eat again...I had been at the point before the apple juice where even lettuce set it off...I stayed really low fat throughout the visit and mostly vegetarian but did not have another attack. After everyone left I did the Lewis cleanse (BLECK)...but it worked and I haven't had another "Attack" since. After the pregnancy I did Lewis again, but that time from a 3 day apple juice FAST...I can't even tell you how many stones I still got...a ton. Gotta go feed my kids...I'll be praying for you...I know this just sucks!

05-11-2008, 11:37 AM	#19
shykins MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: UK Posts: 2,442 Gallery: shykins Stats: 262/147 goal WOE: atkins Start Date: 19th April 2004	i had mine out almost a year ago now... the attacks were agony in the end i couldnt eat anything let alone fat (never lost weight so fast in my life lol) i had to avoid caffiene and in the end even decaff started an attack so try and avoid that if u are feeling bad as soon as i recovered i went back to atkins with no ill effects at all and i have not had an attack (other than the week after surgery cos a stone got lodged typical me!!!)... i occasionally get a bout of reflux but as i have a hiatus hernia as well thats not unusual good luck and hope u get sorted soon x

05-13-2008, 12:30 PM	#20
mamagiff Bike Tart Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: right down the road from Bong Recreation Area! Posts: 30,494 Gallery: mamagiff WOE: Switched to Atkins Start Date: 3/24/08	Well, I had the surgery yesterday and so far all is well! Very little discomfort - it feels more like I had a really hard workout and am sore from that. But I am still taking painkillers although I'm spreading them farther apart already. I will probably stop them altogether tomorrow. No problems with food so far, either. I don't have any restrictions for food or exercise other than to not eat things that might bother me (hard to know unless I eat it first!) and to not do things if it hurts. I'm getting ready to go on the indoor bike in a few minutes and will see how long I can go. I'll pedal at a slower pace than usual but enough for it to be a bit of a workout. Now I'm curious to see how I will feel in the next few weeks. I really didn't have any classic gallbladder symptoms but I wonder if I will notice any differences at all. Last edited by mamagiff : 05-13-2008 at 12:32 PM.

05-15-2008, 10:35 AM	#23
healthy lady T Senior LCF Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Cleveland, Ohio Posts: 189 Gallery: healthy lady T Stats: 245/235/Goal 150 WOE: Atkins Start Date: original 9/98 restarted 6/16/08	I recently had a bout of something at work. The nurse made sure the ambulance was called. I refused to let the EMT take me to the hospital and let my husband take me to my doctor. He had me complete bloodwork and a ultrasound. I am just waiting for the results. In the meantime he has me taking an acid reflux medication. My question to all of you: Did you have an ecruciating pain under your breastbone and right above your stomach? Did that spell last for about 15 minutes? I felt those systems and it was like an increase pressure. It was a horrible feeling. I am hoping at the very least it is just acid reflux. Can you all give me some feedback? Also did you find your diet and weight loss easier after your treatment?

05-16-2008, 04:13 PM	#24
ardawn Senior LCF Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: NW Arkansas Posts: 524 Gallery: ardawn Stats: 5'6,goal weight 130 WOE: Atkins Start Date: starting anew each day	I never had attacks per say. I just felt very,very ill. My gallbladder was not functioning at all,and was very diseased.I had it removed last August,and I instantly felt better! I have had a few digestive issues,but it's hard to know if it's pre-menstral or is due to lack of GB. I recently started taking high quality digestive enzymes and probiotics,and what little issues I had seem much better.

05-16-2008, 05:39 PM	#25
Jeeper Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Silicon Valley, CA Posts: 8,137 Gallery: Jeeper	Several people on this board have suggested gallstone flushes since I have been a member, and I always feel I have to post a cautionary note. When you start your stones moving, one can easily get stuck in the common bile duct, and you could die from it in a very short time - a few hours. IMO it's best to leave the health care to the professionals. I guess if you are absolutely, positively certain you have no stones, just fine "gravel," it might be a safe do-it-yourself procedure - but how many of us really know? About eight years ago my stone (which I didn't realize I had) moved of its own accord and got stuck, causing my digestive juices to burn my pancreas, and I was in the hospital for two months with acute necrotizing pancreatitis. It was touch-and-go, as my breathing was suppressed and I had a horrible infection that did not respond to the first two IV antibiotics they tried. I had pseudocysts and other complications that caused me to have extensive surgery after the inflammation and infection of the pancreas subsided. I have a scar from surgery that is about 15" long, beginning at my sternum. Our insurance paid out over $250,000. I hope you get your gall bladder taken care of ASAP, with tiny little incisions for laparoscopic surgery, and that you soon feel wonderful again!