16x's a day @ 8 mos post j-pouch takedown

[mark9]

I'm @ 8 mos post j-pouch takedown and am still having problems with nausea, diarrhea, cramps etc.. I ,m taking lomotil and metamucil and still go 16x's /day. I had a recent bout with pouchitis and took Cipro and Flagyl (and yogurt) . The Cipro made me feel normal again and reduced frequency to 5-7 x's a day- I felt good! When I came off the Cipro the high frequency diarrhea problem returned. I go every 6 hrs at about 4 trips per. I am so beat down by a lack of sleep and stress from this that I am ready to die!!! Given I have young kids this is not an option though, if I didn't it would be. My surgeon thinks I may have IBS though I don't believe that. I am sick and tired of being sick and tired. Maybe the Cipro/ Flagyl combo killed most flora and thereby reduced freq??? I couldn't believe how good i felt 2 days after taking Cipro??? I' m slowly losing weight- 22lbs since takedown. I should be betw 175 and 180. I had no weight problems or any other problems with the bag. I am now just beginning to try Welchol and probiotics with no immediate good results as with the Cipro. I do work in a clinical lab and have full acess to micro dept. Anybody have any experimental ideas?


This discussion is related to J-Pouch reversal.

[CalGal]

Try doing some reading on VSL#3 and it's use in U.C./pouchitis problems. Forget the regular probiotics at this point. Go for the 'heavy duty' brand and see if that gives you a hand. There are a number of decent articles on medscape about VSL - it's been used in numerous clinical trials with wonderful results.

[danc11]

My dad had the j pouch reversal done 4 weeks ago and it was the worst decision.
His life was going well with the bag, no pain, had things under control, living normally.
His surgeon recommended the reversal and he trusted this recommendation.
He has had constant pain, diarreah, severe cramping to the point last week he was rushed by ambulance back to hospital and has been there since in pain, taking morphine every day.
Obviously the reversal doesnt always work the way they hope it will and he is just praying that he will be rid of the diarreah soon, the pain and regain some control over his bowels.
Did i mention he is no incontinent too!
Sounds awful and it is. From what ive seen with my dad, who is 63.
Dont get the reversal, lifes good with the bag.

[TrudieC]

I had the takedown 15 years ago and after a rough first year am very happy I had the j-pouch surgery.  You need to use your anti-diarrhea's a lot in the first year but ensure you keep your hydration up.  Immodium was my best friend.  After you have a bowel movement stand up for a minute and then try again so your pouch gets completely emptied.  Be careful what you are eating.  High gas, spicy, and high fiber foods are a no no.  Foods that will bulk your stools are marshmallows, applesauce, and lots of eggs and meats.  I hope things improve for you soon.