Change in Bowel Habits following Surgery

Hi Mike,I had terrible constipation due to paralytic ileus post surgery.I stopped vomiting once home but still felt full easily and had to take things to help the constipation.I noticed I was emptying the bowels in the early hours of the morning and this change has become permanent nearly 3 years later.My surgeon said it can take a few months for the bowels to settle following Ileus.See what the doctors say,things will probably improve with time.It’s still very early days in your recovery.Best wishes Jane x

Thanks Jane

I had ileus issues in hospital as well which meant I had a nasal gastric tube for about 5 days. I suppose I haven't taken this into account really when thinking about the current issue but it makes sense that this has an effect. Probably will improve with time as you say and I need to give it time and keep thinking about the light at the end of the tunnel. 

Think I've been doing well with the recovery generally but need to keep remembering that it all takes time

Regards

Mike

Hi Mike,I also had a nasal gastric tube for a few days.It sounds like you are still recovering from the effects of the ileus complication.It is hard to see the light at the beginning of the recovery but you will get there.How is the fatigue ?

Thanks Jane

Definitely not feeling as tired as I was so this aspect is improving. Some days are better than others and still often feeling tired but before I was feeling absolutely shattered not having done anything and having daytime naps.  

Regards

Mike

Hi Mike,That’s good that your energy levels are picking up.It is a big operation and it does take it out of you.I was very up and down during the first 3 months but then I turned a corner and dramatically improved.I think it took me longer to recover because I was so ill to begin with and not very fit.As my partner would say keep the faith that improvement will continue each week.Take care,Jane 

Hi Mike

Your bowels have taken a hell of a bashing. Just after the op I didn't go for days. They will hopefully sort themselves soon but it is good to speak to your doctor

Love Inanna x 

Thanks Inanna 

Yes I've got to keep reminding myself just how big an op this one is and being patient regarding the recovery. 

Will have a word with the doctors. Hopefully as you say they will sort themselves out though 

Regards

Mike

Hi

Had terrible constipation on getting home and the laxatives caused leaking (not pleasant), but no real movement. I stopped the laxatives and eventually it cleared. Not uncommon in the first few weeks after the op.

I was warned that there might be some permanent changes in bowel habits. In the first few weeks mine varied from urgent and loose to very sluggish. They have settled down to similar to pre op, but feels more of an effort to completely empty. Also a bit more prone to sudden looseness after eating certain foods. We tend to be more aware of how everything is functioning. Hope you feel more comfortable soon. 

Thanks Teasswill

I've definitely been on the very sluggish side. It sounds, from what everyone has said, that some changes are likely to remain but that things are also likely to mainly settle down in time. The effort to completely empty has been concerning me and that's with taking some laxatives so I hope it becomes easier. 

You mention eating certain types of food. Has everyone found that you have been able to eat as before once things have settled down? Thinking of both certain types of food and amount you are able to eat? I've read that you should be able to eat as before but I'm wondering about that. Trying to not eat too much although wanting to build myself back up a bit having lost some weight and muscle tone. Avoiding likely problem things like anything too spicy as well.