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Colitis (Expert Forum)
living with ulcerative colitis & gallbladder removal
Answered by
Ratnakar Kini, MD - Gastroenterology, Pediatrics, acid reflux, gerd, colitis
Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist
India
This forum is for questions and support regarding Colitis issues such as: Causes, Constipation, Diagnosis, Diarrhea, Drugs and OTC Medications, Fever, Living with Colitis, Loss of Appetite, Preventing Flare-ups, Research, Symptoms, Support, Surgery, Tests, Treatments, Types of Colitis
living with ulcerative colitis & gallbladder removal
by troymichele, Jun 29, 2009 07:23PM
I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis 20 years ago and had my gallbladder removed 4 years ago. Since that time I have had several occasions where with virtually no warning I have lost control of my bowels. This has happened both when I have eaten and when I have not eaten. I currently take 5.5 grams of Cholestyramine powder before bedtime. I feel like a cripple because I am not able to leave the comfort of my home for fear of having an embarrassing accident. I have explained this to my Dr. but she only recommends checking out locations with readily available bathrooms before going somewhere but the issue is being able to make it to the bathroom. I live in a remote area so finding another specialist is difficult, I already drive 2 hours to see my current Dr. Please offer any advice you feel would be beneficial to me.
Thank you,
Michele in Kansas
Thank you,
Michele in Kansas
Doctor's Answer
by Ratnakar Kini, MD, Jun 30, 2009 08:56AM
, Jun 30, 2009 08:56AM
Hi,
The diarrhea could be either due to removal of gallbladder in which case it subside on its own after a couple or months ( till then cholestyramine may be taken) or it could be due to flare up of ulcerative colitis. Clinical and lab evaluation are needed to see if it is a flare up of UC. If it is flare up then the precipitating factor should be treated. Either thedose of the medicatiosn you already take for UC should be increased or another medication may have to be added.
You need to consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation in these lines.
The diarrhea could be either due to removal of gallbladder in which case it subside on its own after a couple or months ( till then cholestyramine may be taken) or it could be due to flare up of ulcerative colitis. Clinical and lab evaluation are needed to see if it is a flare up of UC. If it is flare up then the precipitating factor should be treated. Either thedose of the medicatiosn you already take for UC should be increased or another medication may have to be added.
You need to consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation in these lines.
