Pyloroplasty

PROBLEM #1  I've had pyloroplasty (gastric block) & vagotomy (excess acid production). Typically, I have constipation for a couple weeks, followed by a day or two of diarrhea. During bouts of constipation, food takes over a week to pass, and remains pretty much intact. I've tried digestive enzymes, but they didn't help. Anything else I should try?

PROBLEM #2  Even with diarrhea, I'm left feeling like I've just eaten at an all-you-can-eat buffet. Changing my diet hasn't helped. Even going on a juice fast did little to alleviate the problem. Thinking I could have another gastric block. Is that possible, since I still have semi-frequent diarrhea?

PROBLEM #3  I had colonoscopy recently, was diagnosed with hemorrhoids. Family members have them; they say my problem might be different - "rectal prolapse." I can't find info on this subject. What is it, causes, treatments, dangers, etc?

For the record, I'm 22, and have a history of gastric ulcers, in addition to the problems listed above. I'm just a walking, talking gastroenterological mystery!  And I'd love any assistance someone might render in solving some of the above mysteries... Thanks!

Email ***@****

[Addie]

I had this in 1970.  I have no idea why the surgeon I had, thought I needed this.   I went in for gallbladder surgery and he saw a small hiatal hernia (while under the knife) with supposedly a small ulcer. I suffered terribly from this surgery.  

I came home with diarreah (diarrhea).  I was never constipated.  I wish I was to give me a break from all the runs I had.  I also developed something called early and late dumping syndrome from either the vagotomy or the pyloroplasty.  Sweets and drinking liquids with meals triggered this dumping which was the result
of the surgery.

I lost over 30 lbs from this surgery and I was not overweight when I had it.  I went down to 90 lbs. and everyone thought I was anorexic.

If I were you, I would seek the advice of the very best gastroenterologist, you can find, even if it means going into a large city where there is a teaching hospital with specialists.

Ask about vitamins.  I had to be on Zinc and B12 vitamins and a good multi vitamin and still have to take all these.  

It has been 30 years now since I had this.  It does get better.  You are so young to have to go thru this.

My best to you.