Hi there
I'm 63 and had surgery, three weeks ago, to remove a tumour from the upper part of the rectum, near the sigmoid colon. Cancer was between stage two and three and had spread to the lymph nodes so advised to have Chemo.
I was really impressed with the total dedication and care given in my local hospital, prior to and after surgery.
Not sure which type of Chemo yet. I've heard some types cause less hair loss than others. Hoping overall effects won't be too bad.
Despite the recent surgery, I feel quite strong and positive overall, but always good to hear from others on the same journey towards good health.
Hi Carog,
I’m sure your surgery will go fine, but it is nerve wracking in the build up to it, certainly my mind ran away with itself. Just be very kind to yourself, don’t try to rush things and expect to be very very tired afterwards and don’t be surprised if you find the smallest things (such as brushing your teeth or standing up), completely wipe you out.
Regarding your question. I didn’t have your issue before surgery but after surgery I had a feeling of needing to poo almost 24/7 
– it was all consuming and found sitting very difficult. As I’ve mentioned I have an ileostomy. Sitting on the loo didn’t really help at all. I found sitting in a warm bath helped a little (I usually don’t’ have baths just showers) and then I started bathing my bottom with warm water while sitting on the loo and this gave some relief. This carried on for a few weeks and I eventually passed some ‘old’ poo and things settled down – such a relief! It was pretty miserable while I had the constant feeling of needing to go to the loo and spent hours sitting there but it resolved in the end.
I also had quite strong peristalsis in my large bowel, often waking my up at night, but again this settled after a few weeks.
Will be thinking of you and sending lots of positive thoughts.
Big hug.
Net77
