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Poor bowel function, what does that actually mean

VJS1985
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I had a low anterior resection back in July of last year and I’ve been constipated ever since, I have to rely and lactulose daily, now when I was first diagnosed with rectal cancer my surgeon did say I’d have long term poor bowel function but was in so much shock with the news he had just delivered I didn’t ask any questions… like what does that mean??? so I’ve wrote to my colorectal nurse and am just waiting for a reply but do any of you’s know what he meant. The whole situation is really starting to effect my mental health now and it’s got doubly worst since I’ve had to up my iron dosage due to having weight loss surgery, can anyone explain, my weight loss surgeon said (my colorectal surgeon) meant it would be like diarrhoea unable to control it that’s what he meant by poor bowel function but I’m not to sure

  • Dear VJS1985, 

     

    Thanks for getting in touch with us.  

    I’m Alison one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists, welcome to the online community.  

     

    I am sorry to hear that you have been struggling and that it is starting to affect your health, both mentally and physically. It is good that you have written to your colorectal nurse with your query as they would have direct access to your NHS notes and file.  This would allow them to have a read through your notes and get back to you with an answer. 

     

    We have some information about bowel changes after cancer treatment on our website. It’s not possible for us to say what your surgeon meant by long term poor bowel function but this page lists the changes we might expect.  

     

    You say that you have had weight loss surgery and that you have had to increase your dosage of iron, was it your consultant or your GP who prescribed this?  Taking iron tablets can upset your stomach, causing either constipation or diarrhoea, indigestion, or stomach pain.  It would be best to speak to whoever prescribed the iron tablets to discuss your symptoms as these are very common and often need to be managed with medication. 

     

    It may also be an idea to get help with your emotions as you seem to be struggling at the moment.  Please take time to read over the information included in the link above. 

     

     

    Best wishes,  

    Alison, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist   

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.   

    Ref/LE 

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