GBS x 2

Anonymous
March 2, 2008 at 9:26 pm

Gastric Bypass Surgery (2004) & Guillian-Barre Syndrome (2007)

Hi there, Steph!

I know you’re asking about gastric bypass [U]after[/U] GBS but I had the surgery before the syndrome and am learning how to live with both. Due to the surgery, my ability to absorb fat-soluable vitamins (A D, E and K) is compromised. Research what all those vitamins affect. I must take alot of those vitamins to compensate. Even then, I must have the levels checked occasionally. And, even with gastric bypass surgery I STILL have to monitor my intake of food since I can’t physically burn the calories (thanks to GBS). I tend to agree that the lap-band may be a better option simply because it’s less invasive, adjustable and it’s reversible, if necessary. The weight loss will still occur, just not as rapidly. Gastric bypass is “once and for all”. For some people, that’s more difficult to arrange life around than Guillain-Barre.

I know first-hand how hard weight loss can be. Ultimately, the surgical option is a very personal one. What works for one person doesn’t necessarily fit another. Please let me know what she chooses to do…I’m keeping a positive thought for you.

Carla

P.S. FYI, both surgeries can be done laparascopically. You might see if your mom is a candidate, if she chooses surgery.