Post resection bowel movements and gas

[joybelles76]

Hi,

I am a 34 year old female. I was diagnosed with colon cancer (Dukes B) and had a resection and am about to start chemotherapy for 20 weeks (5FU once a week intravenously).

I understand the frequent bowel movements although they are challenging at times and where is all this poop coming from?! lol. What I'm having trouble with is the gas. It's only started recently and is usually in the evening/ after dinner. I have been trying to eat less red meat and more vegetarian meals. Is this the reason for the gas? How can I reduce it?

Also, does anyone have experience with this chemo and how it will affect the bowel? Does it make things worse? (frequency of BMs etc.) Are there any long term side effects?

Thanks in advance.. having trouble getting answers because of course everyone's different and the drs don't know how you'll react to treatment until you have it.

:)

[joybelles76]

Thanks Mammo,

Actually I think it was all the home made sourdough wholewheat bread that we've been eating in an attempt to be more healthy. When I lay off it for a while, things are better.

Cheers.

[mammo]

Diet is often the culprit in this type of situation.  Pay close attention to what you are eating prior to the BM's and gas.  You may want to start by eliminating one food at a time to find the culprit. Some vegetables can cause gas as well.  My son has a total colectomy at age 12 and  he says diet is key.  I have several family members who undergone chemo with no long term effects.  I know it can make you nauseous and even vomit, but then again, everyone's different. I do wish you all the best, and take care.