6. What can I take for nausea?
Some nausea in the early aftermath of weight loss surgery,
for the first two to three weeks, is very common. The use of peppermint extract
is helpful. On occasion, one-half teaspoon of soda bicarbonate in a half glass
of lukewarm water will relieve the nausea; sometimes antacids of Mylanta II
are helpful. The use of ginger (made into a tea) is very helpful when a patient
is nauseated. If nausea is excessive or persistent for a significant amount
of time after weight loss surgery, please contact your physician.
7. How do I use peppermint extract?
Place two or three drops of peppermint extract on crushed ice along with two
or three ounces of water and sipped very slowly. This is very tolerable.
8. How long do I take
Prevacid®/Prilosec/Aciphex/Nexium/Protonix?
As a rule, Prevacid®, as well as similar products should be taken after
the weight loss surgery for a period of thirty to forty-five
days.
9. Can I have crackers?
Crackers, cookies or such snacks must not be taken between meals [i.e., as a
snack or fourth meal] at any time after gastric bypass and LAP-BAND® surgery.
They are, especially crackers, one of the causes of failure of the gastric
bypass or LAP-BAND® surgery to maintain weight
reduction.
10. When can I drive?
Ordinarily, the incision is very well healed and the patient is well on the
way to recovery within two weeks after gastric bypass or LAP-BAND® surgery and
at that time driving is permitted. The patient must use reasonable caution and
good judgment and should not drive after taking medications, when in a state
of pain or reduced alertness, or when other problems occur. Always check with
your surgeon after surgery for confirmation.
