stomach intestinal gas following sigmoidectomy

[minifer]

Since I had my surgery 6 years ago I have been plagued by gas. I mentioned this to my surgeon 2 weeks post surgery and he said it wasn't connected. While my diet has become more vegetarian, it doesn't seem to matter what I eat. It's to the point where I cancel social engagements as it's just too hard to control. I've switched to soya instead of milk although do still sometimes have dairy in ice cream and yogurt.

Any suggestions. I'm getting desperate.

[nvb22]

I had the same surgery 3 month ago and I am having the same problem.  Gas in the mornings with severe stomach aches.

[minifer]

Yes, I had several bouts of diverticulitis and was on antibiotics prior to the surgery. And yes, I've tried several of the probiotic brands, those recommended by pharmacists and health supplement stores. I eat yogurt for that reason also and avoid dairy (milk, cheese, etc, although I do eat ice cream :-(
I have just heard about apple cider vinegar so started that this morning. The bottle says to drink it 3 times a day so I'll see how that works.

Just wish I knew the connection to the surgery and while, as my dr. said, I'd probably be dead without it, at least before I could socialize!
  

[CalGal]

Minifer, did you have diverticulitis issues and as a result were on antibiotics several times or on a prolonged course of antibiotics? If so, have you considered trying some probiotics to see if a change in the number or type of bacteria within your intestinal tract could be the culprit? For some, they can be a big help, and there are a number of decent brands on the market you can choose from these days.

[patient915]

Why did you have the sigmoidectomy?

[minifer]

A laparoscopic sigmoidectomy.

[patient915]

Welcome to the gastroenterology community!  What surgery did you have?