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Anyone else have a Redundant / Tortuous Colon?
Hello. Anyone else out there that has a redundant/ tortured colon? I was diagnosed with this a few years ago. I’m usually ok, but if I get constipated, I get sick for a week or two. Last year my gastroenterologist referred me to a surgeon for urgent surgery to remove some of my colon. The surgeon I ended up seeing (not on the recommended list by my gastro doc due to others not available for a long time) said he believed I could live with the redundant colon if I followed a low FODMAP diet. I tried the diet religiously, scientifically (I’m a scientist), and I found it’s not the food I eat that causes these bouts of constipation. The only item I’ve found that might cause the bouts is coffee every day. An occasional coffee seems fine. What has helped me stay regular in a big way is Benefiber (or any pure wheat dextrose generic) three times per day. Lots of fluid.
My gastro doc was upset with the surgeon and said I’d regret not having the surgery. He fears I will end up in an emergency situation. I have searched the Mayo site and don’t find anything about redundant/ tortured colon. Are any Mayo docs doing research or treat this condition? Anyone else suffer from this too?
Thank you! -Jayne
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Inulin, from Holland and Barret is miraculous.
It’s almost pure fibre , a dessert spoonful daily on cereal or any meal actually works wonders…
Along with a daily sachet of CosmoCol ….👌
Hope it helps , it’s taken me 60 years to find this solution…
Best,
Sheila x
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3 ReactionsYes. About a cup.
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1 ReactionHi there,
I just found out I have this too. For the past few years I have had a terrible time digesting anything. I’m hardly ever regular. It’s either constipation or diarrhea. I had my gallbladder taken out in 2021 and it has just gotten worse. I also have other medical issues but this one hurts every day just like my failed back surgery. I felt it was important to let you know you weren’t alone. Kind regards.
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3 ReactionsHave you thought about going to Mayo? I asked because you will need a focused group of specialists I think. I hope you find help.
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1 ReactionYes, please. Not fsmiluar with this; woild like recipes.
LindaThomas
Sorry..typing stinks.
Hi,
I got a great tip from another woman thro Mayo chat with redundant colon. It's PHYSICAL therefore advice about fiber, laxatives etc. needs to fit vs taking IBS (doesn't show a close relationship to redundant colon) or FODMAP or constipation advice without testing. For me psyllium husks and oatmeal bind me up. I come from permaculture organic gardening and Naturopathic Drs so have avoided laxatives both medical and natural because all say don't use longer than a week unless recommended by a doctor. Also at 71 I don't plan on surgery and haven't even looked into it. My last colonoscopy was great. My gastroenterologist had me go with him un-sedated and it was great. On a TV he showed me where the very tight folds were to keep my longer than usual colon in the space. Being a farmer + having had biology classes I was game. Pain - I have had a child naturally and been in a near fatal auto accident so this pain was minimal and really only when he went around a bend. Good luck with management or other options you choose but we need to keep our longer pipes consistently moist for easy evac.
@Farmer
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2 ReactionsHi. I have IBS C and take Amitiza. I have a tortuous colon as well. Mine must be less severe bc I was never told surgery. I have hiatal hernia too. I think the tortuity causes me pain and makes it horrible to be constipated. I switched from Linzess to Amitiza.
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1 ReactionI just made it to Rochester last night barely…
I am suffering terribly trying to not take medication to do testing…
I have a ton of tests the next few days and anticipate next week because I don’t see the GI until Friday. On night 5 of no sleep tonight. It is so cold here!
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1 ReactionLes, Did it take long to get GI appointment in Rochester? Good for you for going!!
I encourage you to “hang in there” with taking tests and doing what they ask.
Stay in and warm in hotel.
I understand what you are going through but this could be the best thing you have done by seeing best doctors!
Stay positive. Sending prayers for you.
Babs
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