So I saw my surgeon today at the GI clinic this afternoon. He went through all my symptoms, the timing, the liquid diet, so on and so forth, and then asked if the pain ever radiated around through my back or down into my hips/thigh. Yes. Did I ever get stabbing pains in my right shoulder at the same time? Well, yes, now that you mention it... I never thought that was associated, just thought it was something random.

So, anyhow, given all my symptoms and the weird shoulder pains to boot (!), he thinks I have gallstones!!!! What the heck? He thinks there's something else going on, too, making my gut, um, gurgle so much, but he thinks the pain is from gallstones. Apparently we j-pouchers up our chances of getting such things, don't you know.

Of course today the pain was negligible, so I'm not urgent and therefore not scheduled for an ultrasound until August. (Although they did take a lot of blood for testing...) But if I get bad pain again that can't be controlled with tylenol and/or is very long-lasting, I have to go to the ER and I get bumped to the head of the line. To which my lovely husband responded: "And so what day will we be scheduling in severe pain?"

Excuse me. I need to go check my calendar for a convenient day for pain and possible gallbladder surgery!

Gin

Dear Gin,

Yep, I've heard that, that we're more susceptible to gallstones, although I don't understand the connection.

I'm posting just to say that you have my empathy, because my husband had them and they really do HURT!

But hang in there and follow through and get rid of the nasty things and life will be good again!

Keep us posted.

People who have had ileal resection are more prone to GB disease. I think it has something to do with changes in how the bile salts are reabsorbed. My son had it at age 11, which certainly is not a typical age. When they suspect this is the problem, August is certainly a long time to wait just to get the ultrasound! (When we went to the ER, my son's was diagnosed with a CT scan, BTW.) If you need surgery--which is the only permanent solution--how much longer will it take to schedule it after that??
In the meantime, try to avoid high-fat foods, which often trigger attacks. Did they even tell you that?

Gin,
my son (22) had gallstones last year confirmed by the CTscan. he would get in lots of stabbing pain which neseccitated ambulance twice as he couldnt breathe. He was advised to have it surgically removed but we overheard a nurse in hospital recommending apple juice as it ahs malic acid in it. I had him on apple juice as a min drink for almost 2 months in which time his painfull episodes diminished and have eventually stopped. hes been off apple jice now and in no pain for last 5 months..he didnt brush his teath thougha s he should have after each drink so sadly his teeth suffered but all ok now. He also changed his diet to littel and often and no fried foods but plenty of grains and veg.MAybe worth atry while you wait ..

I had a perfect gallbladder after step one and was filled with sludge and 100% dead after step 2. The pain was unreal and was terrible - And I usually dont complain about pains!
Few months after that they removed the gallbladder (easy operation and I was walking that night - had the spleen removed too for other issues with platelets). NEVER HAD THAT PAIN AGAIN and dont miss it.
Its not uncommon and if it has to come out should be a easy one for you! All in all if I had something wrong the gallbladder is much better then others... I always try to stay positive Good luck and hope all works out. If its your gallbladder watch your diet!