Problems after bowel resection

[aross123]

This discussion is related to Problems after bowel resection.


In February 2006 I had an emergency bowel resection.  For no apparent reason, a large portion of my small intestine had twisted and the blood supply to my intestine had been cut off and died.  About 40% of my small intestine (ileum and ileocecal valve) had to be removed.  For the next 2-3 months I had horrible diarrhea after everything I ate.  Within one week I went from 135 lbs. to 115 lbs.  I followed a very low-fiber, low-fat, bland diet.  My surgeon told me that I would suffer from diarrhea for the rest of my life and would have to control it with medication.  My doctor told me that things would get better in time, it just takes awhile for the remaining intestine to adapt.  It took about 6 months for me to maintain a weight of 120 lbs.  (I am 5' 4").    

It's been almost 2 years now and I have problems every day with digestion.  I have diarrhea every morning that lasts sometimes until about noon (some days are worse than others), and the rest of the day I have digestive pain, cramps, sometimes bloating and gas from whatever I eat.  I have tried cutting out certain foods but there doesnt seem to be any rhyme or reason to what causes my discomfort.  I know I am now lactose intolerant and cannot break down fats because of my ileum being removed but sometimes even just a piece of toast will not sit well.  I've recently started taking digestive enzymes to help break down fat, carbs, proteins, milk sugar, and fiber.  The suggested use is 1 capsule before each meal but I take 2 with regular meals and 1 with snacks.  The enzymes have helped considerably with the digestive discomfort (bloating and gas) but I still have diarrhea which I dont expect to every go away.

I've spent the last 2 years trying to find information on life after a bowel resection but I havent had any luck.  I went to see a nutrionist through my medical provider but ended up teaching her a few things about malabsorption.  I get monthly B-12 injections, take a multi-vitam, calcium, magnesium, and probiotics daily, and drink about a gallon of water everyday.  I've had to go to the emergency room a few times for intravenous fluid due to dehydration.

I'm a stay-at-home mom of a very handsome 1 year old so I am always near the bathroom but on the days I am away from home I usually dont eat for fear that my tummy will act up.  Food is no longer a joy, it is a complete hassle.  Anyone out there with the same kind of problem?  I would love to get some advice on how to cope and what things that have helped you to suffer less.

[RxGirl95]

You are always in my thoughts and prayers, but I will say extra ones for you this week.  I can only imagine the heartbreak you experience on these "anniversaries."  I have never experienced a loss like yours, and I pray for others in your situation as well.  The only comfort that I can offer you is that you will be reunited with him one day, and he won't be taken from you again!!

I know that I dispense a lot of Aciphex.  Some drugs work better for different people.  I used to be on Pepcid (famotidine), but I am now taking Prilosec (omeprazole).  I have been doing very well on the omeprazole, and on my insurance, the generics are only $4.00 for 30 day supply!  

I better get going. I have to make something for dinner!  (with less fiber!!) lol

God bless to all.  I hope everyone is in good health and spirits!
Suzanne

[Sue357]

Congrats!  I wish you all the best. I am glad that your depression is lifting, also.  How long ago did you have the surgery ( sorry I forgot).  I am 10 months out...hard to believe it.  I am dreading my colon prep tomorrow but Praise God, it is only for one day.  Last year, at this time, I was having to eat pretty much like that al the time.  Plus I hate the stuff you have to drink.  I will be in la la land most of Tuesday, which is good as it is a bad anniversary date for me.  Take care all....Sue

[bugsmoom96]

Glad to hear everyone is doing well or the best to be expected. This was the first year I was really able to enjoy my Thanksgiving, not just because of the surgery but because my depression seems to be lifting, maybe just from knowing now that I am not alone with this situation and my migraines.

You all have been a God send to me and I'd like to share my excitement with you, my fiance and new stepdaughter should arrive home this coming week. We have anticipated this for months and hopefully a wedding at Christmas if we can get the church. Please keep us in your prayers.

Feeling better these days but still get under the weather with pains no one can explain. But I guess it comes with the territory.

Bless each and everyone of you
Polly

[Sue357]

Glad you were able to enjoy yourself....I ate good too.  Wow, you were an EMT, too?  So you also, like Kit, had medical experience.  Mine has all been first hand, things that I have experienced..lol.  But my best friend is a nurse and she and I talk a lot.  Also, I am with you...I do not like crowds and do not go out on Black Friday.  I spent the day babysitting Angie but make a quick grocery store trip.  Best place to go on Black Friday, no crowds..lol.   Have you had any experience with a GERD drug called Aciphex?  I was on Prevacid, for years, but my new GI switched me as the Prevacid was so expensive on my insurance plan.  I am noticing some break through Heartburn and wondering about it.  Never had that with Prevacid.  God bless all and have a great weekend.  Today would have been my son Ryan's 30th birthday so my other son, Tim, and I are taking balloons and candles to the cemetary.  His "angel day" is Tuesday, 12/2, so please keep me in your prayers.  This is always a bad time of the year for us...

[RxGirl95]

I am glad that everyone had a great holiday.  I was able to eat everything, however, extra fiber PLUS colostomy bag is not such a good thing.  But, I would do it all over again because the food was SOOOO good!!

Yes, I do work in a pharmacy.  I was an Emergency Medical Technician in 1994, then I started working in the pharmacy in Nov. 1995.  So, I have had the same job for 13 years.

You have the same familiarity with your pharmacy as I do with my surgeon and his staff! lol  I did not get any of my prescriptions filled at my pharmacy while I was on my leave of absence.  I went to a pharmacy closer to home.  It's kind of weird letting someone that you trained on the computer to fill your prescriptions! lol

I think I am home for the weekend except for a trip to the grocery store on Sunday.  I am not brave enough to tackle the mall this weekend.  Plus, I don't have the patience for large crowds!

Take care and God bless!
Suzanne

[Sue357]

Hi.  Glad everyone had a great Thanksgiving.  Mine was definately better than last year when I was only able to eat mushy foods.  RX, I am so glad your job was there for you and most importantly, no pay cut.  Do you work in a pharmacy?  My son laughs when we go pick up anything for me because they know me and automatically go get mine.

Kit:  Hope you are doing well.  Yes, the rolling luggage saved me for sure.  Even though I am a teacher, there are still heavy things ( more than 10 lbs) that I would take back and forth.  Have fun at the zoo!  I have Grandma duty today, love every minute of it... I am off until Monday but both my son and daughter in law have to work.  Take care all and God bless.