Anal cáncer

Hi Tiffy!

Sorry to hear you are going through this. I have had this problem up to a point. I found that changing my diet helped a lot. I went on a low fibre diet for a while. I mentioned it to my consultant and she suggested using Imodium as it slows the gut down if I was planning an all day out trip. I used it successfully over Christmas. 
I know we are all different, but I just think it takes time for the bowel to get back to normal. I’m 6 weeks post treatment and I’m fine most of the time- but then some days I have a relapse. I just think we need to be patient , but it is upsetting I know. 
ps I’ve also started to do some exercises to strengthen the muscles in that area and I think that will help.

lots of hugs

Happyflower xx

Hi Tiffy

I finished my treatment on the 6th November and my bowel habits aren't normal yet and I've had some accidents. As I understand it the treatment is still actively working inside you for at least 3 months after you finish. I had a check up with the oncologist yesterday and he wasn't bothered when I told him just said treatment is still working and it's early days yet. So I would say this is normal and hopefully in time it will improve. If you are concerned though ring your hospital team and ask them. Sending hugs. Xx

Thank you so much for your reply. It helps to know that it’s not just me. I was so upset earlier I wished I’d had a stoma fitted. I know I’m being a bit dramatic but I was so embarrassed. 

I’ll get some Imodium and try that for a day out. 

Did the oncologist give you the exercises? 

thank you xx

Thank you for your reply. 

I didn’t realise it would be still working. That’s good to know and hopefully it’ll improve soon for us both. 

thank you xx

Hi Tiffy!

I googled  and found the exercises there. I do remember my Macmillan nurse mentioning them early on though. When I was asked before my treatment started what worried me the most I said- firstly that the treatment wouldn’t work and secondly, that I would have a leaky bottom! 
xxx

I’ll have a look, thank you xx

Hi Tiffy, you are very early days and as Dan the Man has advised is to look at your diet. I had major problems with numerous bowel movements during the day and they ended up putting me on a FODMAP diet. This did improve things and I gradually after three months tried to introduce my usual foods. I am over three and half years post treatment and still cannot eat chocolate, citrus fruits but do indulge occasionally when I know I’m going to be near home the next day. I still have to watch my diet as I can swing from loose to constipated and must always drink plenty of fluids and vegetables every day. You pretty much learn what foods are triggers and it becomes a way of life. So all is normal but it will improve and get down and start doing pelvic floor exercises every day at least twice a day.

Julie

 Hi Tiffy ,

I do not think you are in any way being dramatic. You are living through a very difficult side affect of a very harsh medical treatment for cancer.

I have thought a lot about how I might deal with incontinence if it happens. It was one of the first issues I questioned the oncologist about, including being able to opt for a stoma if I was not able to control it. She said that would be an option.

Recently my bum has taken to involuntarily farting in public, any time, any place, anywhere (the older ones on here might think I’m quoting from a Martini advert). This is since I had surgery to remove the tumour. For some reason my bum likes to do it to me when I walk into a cafe, into a dentist waiting room and nearly always in a shop. I think my bum has an interesting sense of humour. If anyone looks shocked I just play the cancer card. It’s very early days for me and I am convinced this will eventually improve.

I’m guessing it is still very early days for you too.

Please don’t let your feelings of embarrassment,  shame or belief that you are being dramatic, put you off from seeking help and support. I am sure there are very many options to help you deal with this. The more support you get the more likely you are to find a way that works for you.

Really good luck.

Hi Tiffy don't panic, I was advised early days to have a bag with you containing creams for dryness or soreness, tissues and a change of underwear. Some people take a change of clothes too.  It's been nearly 5 months since I finished treatment and i have just started going out without my essentials in a handbag.  However, food choices make a huge difference and can be different for everyone.  Another great piece of advice is do not trust a fart!  You will get to a point where you can trust your feelings and tummy, rumbles will indicate movement and always know where the toilets are. 

Good luck it will get easier to handle x Angie 

Ho Tiffy

The bowel movement will take time to settle. I am 3 months after finishing my therapy, and it is only now returning to normal. I find out that keeping track of what food upset me is useful and we are all different so I would suggest it would be helpful if you make your own "black list". Try to have healthy food drink water, it takes time so don't feel despair and listen to your body! Best wishes with a big hug xx