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]

I hope everyone has a blessed Thanksgiving.  My husband and I shared the cooking duties and my Mom came up to celebrate the day with us.  
Going back to work wasn't bad.  FYI- I still have my same position!!  No pay cut for me!!Thank the Lord!  Work has been VERY hectic this week.  My first day back we filled over 325 prescriptions!! (none of them were mine!)  

I just wanted to check in on everyone and hope you have a terrific, safe and blessed holiday with family and friends!

God bless,
Suzanne

[kitnkate]

Sue, what a great suggestion with the rolling luggages for work! Why did I not think of that!
Have a great day, we all celebrate our main meal on Saturday so today my husband and I take part of our family to the zoo. I am waiting for my stomach to settle down so we can leave the house. Will this ever end!
Rx, take care! So glad you are doing better.
Everyone have a great day! Its been a few days for me not looking in and I realize how much I need all of you and your prayers!
God Bless,
Nancy

[Sue357]

I hope all have a great Thanksgiving, even with our limited diets.... RX, I hope all goes well at work.  I  googled Lyrica and am not sure that is something that I should take.  I will ask my doc but I noticed that one of the side effects mentioned depression and anxiety, which I already have.  I am waiting for the colonoscopy, next Tuesday, and feel good about it, except worried that there may be pain afterwards.  I have had 2 before, but only for screenings.  I will be glad to see if there are no adhesions or anything else that could be causing pain.  I must say, though, that pain is getting better.  But I still take meds at night. So glad that the drain is out.  I know it was hard for me going back to work.  I had a 10 lb lifting restriction and never realized how many small things weigh more than that, like my purse, for example.  lol.  What I did was use one of my small rolling luggages, with handle, and would ask for help getting it in and out of my car.  Take care all and God bless  

[RxGirl95]

Just a quick note...Lyrica is kind of like Neurontin (Gabapentin).  I see it used a lot for neuropathy.  Lyrica is very expensive, there is no generic available.  (Or at least there wasn't the last time I worked!) lol

My surgeon DID remove my last drain today!!  One less thing I have to worry about when I go back to work on Monday!  I go back to see him on Tuesday for him to check on the abdominal wound, and also to see if he has to write a note for my restrictions at work other than the 5lb lifting limit.

I am going to try to clean up around here some before I get back to my working routine!

I hope this finds you all doing well, God bless!

Suzanne

[Sue357]

Hi.  Hope all is going well with you.  How are you feeling?  I am improving and watching diet more.  I backslide and eat something and boom.... get that pain again. lol.  Now I am just dealing with this annoying itching but kit says it is nerve regeneration.  I will keep all posted.  Hope everyone else is doing well.  Sue

[bugsmoom96]

I am glad to see everyone is getting along somewhat ok, just wanted to check on everyone to say hi and see how everyone is getting along. Everyone take care and email me via my profile if you'd like to talk more.

Polly