Hi all...
I saw my surgeon yesterday and since my right-sided hemi-colectomy with removal of the Ileocecal Valve, he told me that I may, for three to six months, experience alternating diarrhea and formed stools, which is exactly what is occurring. What I don't understand is, why when I feel the diarrhea oncoming, I can't control myself at all, and have all of 5 seconds to get to a bathroom, but can control myself when I'm ready to have a formed stool. I've been reading alot of posts whereby people who have had the same surgery as myself, have had their doctors say the same thing, but state that the diarrhea has never stopped, and I'm concerned that I will never be able to go anywhere again without the fear of having an awful, messy accident in some public place!
My surgeon told me that the Ileocecal Valve is responsible for controlling the flow of fecal material from the small intestine into the large intestine and losing it, makes one lose that control.
I'm also reading on the net (see info below), that without this valve, toxins can build up/back up in your small intestines and make you sick!
This has me concerned.
Can anyone illuminate on this subject?
Thanx,
Lida
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What is the Ileocecal Valve?
The Ileocecal Valve is located between the ileum (last portion of your small intestine) and the cecum (first portion of your large intestine). Its function is to allow digested food materials to pass from the small intestine into your large intestine. The ileocecal valve also blocks these waste materials from backing back up into your small intestine. It is intended to be a one-way valve, only opening up to allow processed foods to pass through. Ileocecal Valve Syndrome
When the ileocecal valve is stuck open waste products can back up into the small intestine (much like a backed up kitchen sink drain) disturbing your digestion and also creating unhealthy toxins that are absorbed into the body. Also, if the ileocecal valve is stuck closed waste products are prevented or constricted from passing into the large intestine.
Unfortunately, this disorder is often overlooked by the medical profession. A dysfunctional ileocecal valve can result in a combination of symptoms.
Ileocecal Valve Syndrome Symptoms
Right shoulder pain
Right side pelvic pain
Low back pain
Pain surrounding heart
Flu symptoms
Tinnitus
Nausea
Syncope / Near syncope
Headache
Bad breath
Face pallor
Dark circles under eyes
Dizziness
Bowel disturbances (diarrhea / constipation)
Causes of Ileocecal Valve Syndrome
Dehydration
Emotional upsets
How you eat (overeating, eating too frequently, eating too quickly, eating foods you are sensitive to, under-chewing your food)
Foods you eat (carbonated drinks, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, raw foods, hot spicy foods)
Ileocecal Valve Syndrome Treatment Options
Chiropractic adjustments
Applied kinesiology
Homeopathy
Temporary elimination diet (for 2 to 3 weeks avoid:
Roughage foods--such as: popcorn, nuts, potato chips, pretzels, seeds, whole grains
Raw fruits and vegetables--such as: celery, bell peppers, cucumbers, cabbage, carrots, lettuce, tomatoes
Spicy foods--such as: chili powder, hot peppers, salsas, black and cayenne pepper, paprika, cloves, cinnamon
Stimulants--such as: liquors, alcoholic drinks, cocoa, chocolate, caffeine products
References: Systems DC Patient Education pamphlet: Open Ileocecal Syndrome, Consultation-- Dr. K.E. Kirchner, Kahoka, MO.