Pain with lap band filling

I had my first lap band fill and when I got home I started to develop excruciating abdominal pain. Is this normal?

No, filling of the lab band is painless and there is no pain afterwards either. If you have pain that started after filling of the band, I suggest you go to the ED now. You will need studies to rule out perforation of the stomach.

Lap band full and no weight loss

I had a lap band nine months ago and the fillings are almost done. However, I have not lost much weight. Will that happen later?

If you have not lost weight with the band already full, I am sorry I doubt you will not lose much more weight in future. That is the reality. Most surgeons tell patients BS that everyone loses weight after lap band. The facts show that for every one-success story, there are many more who do not lose any weight. 

The overall result is depression and a huge loss of money. I would highly encourage that you start walking more and eating less. Do not despair- if you have legs then you should use them. People do not realize that walking is a sure way to lose weight at no costs and no complications. Unfortunately, most people are too lazy.

Lap band adjustment fee

Is there a fee to adjust the lap band after surgery?

It depends on what type of arrangement you had with the surgeon. In some cases, there is one inclusive fee that will cover one or two adjustments. However, many surgeons charge $50-$100 for each adjustment. Some also add a consultation fee. The name of the game is to squeeze money out of desperate people.

Weight loss surgery in Mexico

I am unable to get insurance for weight loss surgery in California. Do you think going to Mexico is worth it?

Many people go abroad for all types of surgeries. The prime factor is cost. In mexico the cost of weight loss surgery is about 50% less than what it costs in the USA. However, what you need to know is that weight loss surgery is a major undertaking. Complications often occur and can be life threatening. 

If you go to mexico and something goes wrong, who will take care of you when you return back to the USA? It sure is not practical to go to Mexico every weekend to take care of an infected wound. Plus, remember, you have no idea about the quality of surgeons abroad. Anyone can make up a website and mention that they have done 1000s of operations. 

Finally, if there is cock up, I doubt you can sue the surgeon in mexico. Whereas in the USA, the lawyers will be waiting at the hospital door with their ID cards to assist you with any complication. Think twice about it. If you do not have the money to undergo surgery in USA, start walking more and eat less. This will save you all the hassles of surgery.

Generic Cymbalta

Is there a generic version of Cymbalta?

Yes, it just got approved a few days ago. It is used to treat pain, depression, anxiety and fibromyalgia. Many doctors have been prescribing it for low back pain. I am not sure if it works. The major problem is that some of the studies conducted on this drug were paid by the manufacturers and the doctors also received money to interpret the results. 

Well, guess what-some of these unethical physicians never reported the negatives and fudged the data making everything look great. This is true of many psychiatric medications. So the only way to tell if Cymbalta will work is to try it out. If it does not relieve pain in 2-4 weeks, I would discontinue it .

Whole grains and diabetes

Can whole grains prevent diabetes or lower blood sugars?

Whole grains such as rye, wheat, corn and barley constitute a major part of the diet in many countries. There are many reports about the benefits of whole grains in prevention of diabetes. However, review of the studies indicate that the lowering of blood sugars is mild.  But people who ate whole grains all pooped regularly and had no bowel complaints.

I think whole grain consumption is good for overall health but I would not rely on them for control of blood sugars. Stick to your medications and stop relying on one particular food or supplement to control diabetes. Out of control diabetes can quickly make your life miserable,.

Can you tell me what exactly is RESPERATE

Resperate is a battery operated portable device that manufacturers claim can lower blood pressure. It is the equivalent of a yoga. The device is sold over the counter. Resperate device is about the size of a tiny book and has a sensor attached with a set of earphones. It operates as a biofeedback device that uses paced breathing to modulate blood pressure. The sensor belt is secured on the abdomen while wearing the earphones. The sensor then relays the breathing pattern and rate. (by the way all this is a bunch of crap but anyway..).

While some people claim the device can lower blood pressure, in reality it is nonsense. Resperate only lowers blood pressure in foolish people who have no brain. If you have any common sense and do not want to throw your hard earned money down the toilet, avoid this crap. There is no machine that can lower blood pressure. If you have blood pressure, go see your doctor and get some medications that work. Resperate is for people who like to hoarde junk, are delusional and have  money to waste.