Bowel cancer and after surgery - what to expect

Hi and welcome to the online community

I don't have any experience with bowel cancer so don't know if it's normal to lose weight and to be very tired. However, I'm sure the folks over in the bowel cancer group will be able to answer your question if you join and post there.

To join just click on the link I've created and then choose 'join this group' on the page that opens. You can then post your question after selecting 'start a discussion' and join in with existing conversations by clicking on 'reply'.

When you have a minute it would be really useful if could pop something about your dad's journey so far into your profile as it helps others when answering or looking for someone with a similar diagnosis. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Edit Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.

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Hi Annie

Welcome to the online community and I am sorry that you've had to join us because of your concerns about your dad after his bowel cancer surgery and I hope I can put you mind at least but telling you that both of the things your dad is experiencing are absolutely normal.

I have put together some information  for you which may help you and your family to understand a bit more.

Tiredness (fatigue)

Unfortunately this is the most common side effect of bowel cancer surgery.

If you think about what your dad has been through - worry and uncertainty  about his cancer diagnosis, undergoing major operation and being discharged from hospital after a short time. He may lack energy and find even the smallest tasks exhausting. Rest often does not make it better. Fatigue can last for many months after treatment has finished. It can be linked to other problems such as depression, disturbed sleep, anaemia or low levels of oestrogen, testosterone or thyroid hormones, it is important to find out if there is another cause for your fatigue so it can be treated. Dad should speak to his GP, Consultant (understand he is seeing his consultant this week so he will have a good opportunity) or specialist nurse if his energy levels do not improve over time.

Fatigue can make it more difficult to do the things he enjoys and can affect his mood and relationship with other people.

Ways he can help himself

Regular exercise can reduce fatigue and build energy levels. He should start with short walks and increase the distance slowly. Exercise can help him sleep better and improve anxiety and depression.

Keep to a routine.

By trying not to stay in bed too long after he wakes up and going to bed at the same time each night. 

Eating small meals rather than large ones.

Weight loss

Foods low in fibre are usually digested better at first. It is normal to lose some weight after this surgery. Soon it will level off and slowly and he  will start to regain some of the weight you lost. ... His bowel actions may change after your surgery.

If you haven't got one and would like a chart of foods and the effect they have on the body let me know

Macmillans Bowel function after surgery

Annie, I hope you find the above of interest and helps dad if you need anymore help or information please let me know by giving me a shout out, I normally can be found in Bowel (colon and rectal) cancer forum group and I look forward to seeing over there and being of help to you, please remember that there is no such thing as a silly or daft question, except the one never asked and the very friendly members of the bowel group will only be too pleased to help you with advice and information at any time.

Ian