Staying hydrated

Hi Pardet The bowel does take a few days to settle down after the operation so please persevere with the hydration. The problem with fluids going through him so fast is the loss of electrolytes so maybe having some diarolyte would help? I think Imodium is only detrimental to people with heart conditions if taken in excessive amounts unless his consultant has said not to take it? It can be very useful at slowing down the transit of food which allows more liquid to be absorbed. Following a low residue diet is recommended for the first couple of weeks and mash potato ticks that box

 Low Residue Diet 

If things don’t improve over the next day or two then I’d be tempted to ring the ward that he was discharged from and see if the consultant can advise the best course of action

Take care

Karen x

Hi, I have had my ileostomy for 6 months and the only time I have taken imodium is during chemo. I try to use food to keep the output thicker, but after surgery it does take a few days to get back to normal.

Electrolites are very important if things are liquid, I drink coconut water and have a small amount of salt in normal water. Electrolites in packets also do the job.

Potato is also a great early food, along with white rice, chicken, banana and plain chicken. I eat garlic, but is does cause gas and loose output.

During chemoradiation I was very careful to eat plain bland food, but I now eat most foods. Cut small, chew well and small portions. Gradual introduction, then check output.

Wishing your husband all the best with his recovery.

Ally