The Colon Club

Some days I have more energy than others. I have to be careful not to overdo it. I walk around my apartment. I tire very easily and feel very weak some days. Also the pain is better some days and worse others. When my asthma is acting up I feel especially weak. I've had to use my inhaler two days in a row. I hope I'm not getting a cold because when I get a cold it makes my asthma much much worse. I eat but don't have much of an appetite. I have to be careful how I bend because bending too much hurts. I just take it one day at a time. I drink lots of fluids, use metamucil and a stool softener, and try to eat more fiber. I know it takes a while to recover from colon resection.

Sounds like everything's moving along for you. It took me a couple months to get back from my LAR. Appetites a tough one for me.

DE, you've got it right, the days aren't consistent but you should start noticing the good days will become more frequent. Be good to yourself. This is a good time to catch up on tv series, books, etc.

You need to remember that you have had very major surgery. When I left the hospital, they told me that you are not really completely healed for up to 6 months. For the first couple of weeks I had all of the symptoms you are describing. Then I started to turn a corner. Take care of yourself and hopefully you will start to see better days soon. If you are really worried about a symptom, call your surgeon to get some help.

Lois

Darkness,

Because of the nature of my surgery I thought I was home free. Two days later was at my friends funeral. Took me days to recover from that! I believe most of your questions about what to do, why your back or side hurts should be directed to your surgeon, as he/she knows your specific case. Please don't wait for your next appointment, just call!

Kathy