Re: Diarrhea after the removal of my gallbladder

I, like everyone else, am surprised that so many people go through this. I had my gallbladder removed at the age of 16 in January of 1997. The procedure was "supposed" to be quick and easy. The surgery was long and difficult but my doctor made it through. I had 3 surgeries after the initial removal to insert a stent in my bile ducts. I had to have a drain literally hang out my body for over 6 weeks while I recuperated. After the surgery, my doctor said that I would not put on weight like I had in the past and that my life would greatly improve. My life has improved SOOO MUCH that I now go to the bathroom after I eat my first meal of the day (usually within 30 minutes). I am truly miserable, depressed, etc...and thought that I was alone in this battle. Every woman in my family has had this procedure done and not one of them go through what I do. I can't function as a normal human being because of this surgery. I can't say that I am not thankful for having it removed but I have paid a large price. I have diarrhea, cramps, bloating, muscle spasms, gas, and any other problem you can think of. I have limited my food intake and done everything I could think of. The only thing that I have found that works is to eat a small breakfast as soon as I get moving in the morning. This has allowed my body to produce enough acid to digest lunch which in turn will produce acid for dinner, etc. I can't say this is most effective but it is the only thing that gives me any relief. Ironically, I spent time in Ecuador 3 years ago and listed as a requirement that I couldn't eat greasy, processed foods. I had fresh meat, bread and vegetable every day three times a day. During my entire stay, 6 weeks, I did not get sick one time. I never had the urge to run to the bathroom. It was the best I have felt in 6 years. I wonder sometimes if the american food culture is to blame for all my problems. I can tell you this, I am so glad that I am not alone in this battle! Tweet