Hi, I’m 6 weeks post op. Primary sigmoid colon, mets ovary, liver, peritoneum. I’m struggling to go to the toilet, I’m using senokot and lactulose. Sometimes I go once a day, but then I constantly feel I want to go the toilet and it nothing except extreme pain as though something is blocking poop coming out. Other days I can go every 30mins for 7 hours.
I’m so pleased that I’m alive, but I’m not living constantly worrying how my bowels are going to be on any given day. Is there anyone out there who has had a similar op and issues who can share their experiences?
Hi Cardiff1968 I’m sorry to hear that you’re struggling but it is still early days yet so hopefully things will start to settle down over the next few weeks. The loose stools can be caused by constipation - it’s called breakthrough diarrhoea and its when watery stools start to leak out past the impacted stool.
Could you give your colorectal nurse a ring for advice? I have a couple of links about regaining bowel control but I’m a bit worried that it’s too early in the recovery for you yet? You could also try posting in the Ask a Nurse section for advice?
Take care
Karen x
Hi Karen
Thank you for responding. I spoke to my nurse and Dr, both said it will take time. I guess I’m an impatient patient! It’s reassuring that this is normal following colon surgery. I would be interested in reading about regaining bowel control, I’ve been researching hypnotherapy as well. I feel the more I stress about it, it’s not helping. Victoria xx
Hi Victoria. Yes it’s hard to be patient when you feel like it’s something that’s holding you back. I’m happy to post the links for you and hope they’re of some help
https://bowelcancerorguk.s3.amazonaws.com/Publications/RegainingBowelControl_BowelCancerUK.pdf
Hi, thank you so much for the link to the bowel cancer booklet. This is so informative and has given me reassurance that what I’m experiencing is “normal”. This has really put my mind at ease and hopefully I will be less stressed which will also help with getting my bowel moving.
You’re very welcome. The other link to the interview with a gastroenterologist might be more useful a bit further down the line if things are still not improved?
Take care
Karen x
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