post opt colectomy or colon resection

[sufferpostopt]

After my surgery for colon cancer I had colostomy bag for 6 wks. then reverse surgery. Even though doctor did a great job. I am now experiencing thick heavy bowel movements that cause a burning sensation that at times I have to stand in shower and run cold water to ease pain. I am now wearing depends undergarments to protect myself from mishaps. I am spending a great deal of time in bathroom trying to pass this. I am concern with this after 5 months good news is the tumor removed is benign. My questions are what is the outcome of this type of surgery and will I ever return to my old self. I am presently taking omega three fish oil supplements and potassium and a vitamin one a day also super B complex. Once I go to bathroom the only relief Iget is to lay down for awhile. Need advise on what and when to eat as I can not pinpoint foods that may cause this to happen. My Doctor states this is normal and to take Phillips Milk of Magnese 2 times a week. Additional information will be and is greatly appreciated.    tired of pooping Thanks


This discussion is related to Symptoms / Nutrition, etc. for Post-Op Colonectomy.

[Morecambe]

Hi - as you may have noticed from my other postings, four years ago I underwent a total colectomy.  Indeed in the weeks after the operation, the frequency of toilet visits increased to ~ 8 per day and ~2-4 during the night.  However over time they reduced to ~4 per day and 0-1 during the night.  From your posting it seems that you suffer pain from within the remaining intestines?? Is this correct??  If so, then I did not suffer from this so I can't really suggest anything.  If however, the more corrosive nature of your motions is causing anal soreness then, after the last toilet paper wipe, use toilet paper dampened with soapy water - or wash your anus with soapy water afterwards.  When you are away from home and cannot do this easily then take very mild baby wipes with you.

I found that a diet with a high fibre content was helpful in reducing the "wateryness" of my motions to a "muddy/sludgy" consistency.

Specifically, try to incorporate organic bran into your diet - it can be mixed with yoghurt or pulverised fruit/vegetables.  Specifically a home made muesli helped a lot (mix organic oats, organic bran, grated fruit/nuts, lemon juice etc with milk and soak it for a few hours so that it looks like wet cement!!).

I likened this to clearing up a liquid spillage on the kitchen floor by adding sawdust to thicken the liquid.

Wholemeal brown bread (rather than the processed white bread) also helped me.  Try to avoid all processed foods.

Good luck and please come back if you think I can advise further.

Morecambe