Stomach like a beer belly after colon cancer surgery

@chateau, I noticed that you wished to post a URL to an article with your post. You will be able to add URLs to your posts in a few days. There is a brief period where new members can't post links. We do this to deter spammers and keep the community safe. Clearly the link you wanted to post is not spam. Please allow me to post it for you.

- Lymphedema https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/symptoms-causes/syc-20374682

Chateau, I can imagine that the swollen belly is worrisome. But as you said, it is very early days only 5 days post surgery. There's still a lot of gas in your abdomen from the surgery I should think.

Have you inquired about lymphatic massage already?

I had emergency surgery for a full bowel obstruction and colostomy last a year ago last month with a follow up abdominal surgery to remove a baseball size tumor and ileostomy. Now, after my resection, I look 3 months pregnant.

Welcome to Connect, @nannytart.
There are a number of reasons that someone will experience abdominal swelling after surgery. Here are some explanations http://www.healthguideinfo.com/digestive-disorders/p118708/. But it has been 9 months since your surgery. Has you belly looked like this since surgery? Have you talked to your doctor about it?

I'm bringing a few other members into the conversation who are living with colon cancer or caring for someone who has colon cancer. Perhaps @bbams @brglight @travelgirl @martid @retairforceman @sue_in_delaware and @nananet can shed some light on your situation.

Renn, I had similar symptoms from liver metastasis from pancreatic cancer. My liver wasn't functioning properly. It turned out to be ascites. It is a build up of fluid in the stomach cavity. I learned that it can result in a small percentage of patients after colon surgery. A quick internet search had this result:

What is chylous ascites after colon surgery?

Chylous ascites (CA) or chyle leak (CL) after colorectal surgery remains a relatively rare complication with estimated incidence of 1%-6.5%. It usually occurs after unrecognized trauma to the lymphatics during surgery.

It might be something to look into. I had over 20 liters of fluid in my stomach area. I looked like I was pregnant. Let me know, if I can help further. I will share what I can from a patient perspective.

Thanks for your reply, I’ve had blood tests which have come back as ok, liver tests all ok. May I ask how was it treat

Hi/ thank god i was only in stage 1 they removed i foot of my colon and i didnt need chemo or radiation. I never suspected i had cancer i felt so good up nuntil that day that i got deathly sick. I had just left a restaurant and thought i had food poisining i had never had a colonoscopy before but when i went into the hospital that day they recommended it and i am so happy i agreed to it I was absolutely shocked when the Dr. came and told me I had cancer I feel good and life goes on my only complaint is I ended up with a big round belly that I hate. My operation was in November 2015 so it should have flattened out by now my doctor doesnt seem to think its a big deal.