kal74 wrote: . . . resign yourself to the fact that you'll be spending most days in the bathroom after reversal. I would expect this for the first few months but it seems to be years of issues that are never ending. I can't even imagine how any of these people work and if I should prepare myself mentally for what's to come.
susie0915 wrote:My tumor was 5 cm above anal verge. I did experience frequent bowel movements for about a year after reversal. Never had problems with not being able to hold it, just went a little bit often. I went to the bowel control clinic at University of Michigan. The doctor recommended pelvic floor physical therapy and meeting with a dietician. The dietician recommended the low FODMAP diet. It is restrictive. No gluten, dairy, high fructose corn syrup. The idea is to follow for a couple weeks then slowly add foods to figure out what may be a problem for you. These were both helpful. The doctor asked if I had ever tried a tap water enema or suppositories when I had problem fully evacuating. I had to do an enema for one of the tests he ordered and felt good the whole day. I have been daily tap water enemas ever since. The doctor says they are no problem and safe. It has given me quality of life. It takes about 30 minutes a day, and I'm good until the next morning when I do my next enema. I can eat what I want, have control of when I go, and don't have to worry about where the restroom is or having to go when I'm out.
There are many options as it will take time to find what works best for you. Everyone is different. Some have great success right out of the gate. Others do well with controlling diet, taking anti diarrheal meds, Metamucil or Citrucel. Others had opted to get a permanent colostomy. There are exercises you can do ahead of time to strengthen you sphincter muscle as well. I tried many things and the daily enema was what has worked best for me. Try not to worry as you may do very well. When the time comes, there are many on this forum that can provide advice on what has worked best for them. Right now focus on your surgery and any treatment you may be going through after.
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