Seeking support for recovery from diverticulitis surgery

Yes, this issue certainly does not allow one much dignity, does it? I have to plan my outings carefully and always pack a change of clothes. I have not had an accident, thankfully, but can certainly relate to the nugget issue! I wish a follow up with a GI dietitian would be a routine next step, for everyone who has had this type of surgery.

I had a long history of diverticulitis and IBS episodes. About 15 years ago I had left hemicolectomy. Even though I do still have diverticulosis in my colon the surgery most definitely gave me relief from diverticulitis. However, IBS was still an issue. Early this year I had yet another colonoscopy and biopsies revealed microscopic colitis. I was put on a 3 month regime of a steroid Budesonide. This was a game changer. While enjoying my new found freedom I got COVID (Sept.) and was in the hospital 8 days. I had two bacterial infections as well--dealing with that for four years. This made recovery more difficult. I lost weight in the hospital. The doctor said to make sure I get lots of protein and fats. I picked up some protein peptides. Later also purchased bone broth protein and collagen that a friend suggested. I don't do all three a day but kind of mix them up. The results have been positive from what I can tell. Have not had blood work since starting but will be interesting to see the results. I drink water all during the day but don't measure how much. Hope some of this is helpful.
Best to all.

A month ago I was hospitalized with a perforated colon, abscess and sepsis. I was treated with IV antibiotics, followed by 30 days of oral. I'm having sigmoid colon resection surgery December 14. I'm trying to get an idea of recovery as I live alone and have two dogs to care for. From the answers in this thread, it sounds like I'm in for a rough couple months.... I'm worried.

Sorry to hear you had such a difficult time with The perforated colon and hospitalization. I had laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy in July. Recovery time varies but I think there’s quite a difference between laparoscopic recovery and open recovery. My recovery seemed to take a bit longer than I thought even though I had laparoscopic procedure. Just go in with a positive attitude and I’m sure you will do well.

What you experience during recovery will be nowhere as bad or dangerous as what you have already been through. Good luck with your surgery. Focus on healing, and all will be well. Recovery will take several weeks depending on your type of surgery and your age and health going into it. I have learned the hard way ( I am going on 6 weeks after surgery) that the biggest thing is to rest and be patient with yourself. Ask for help, and treasure your doggie friends because they are great healers and are pretty adaptable. I have two golden retrievers. Some days they only get out in the yard, and even though they would prefer to go on a walk, they still love me and are good for cuddles and pets.❤️ As my surgeon told me at my follow up appointment, in a few months I will see this time as a “blip on the radar” I hope he is right, but I am absolutely sure that the freedom from diverticulitis and all those antibiotics is worth it for me. Hugs.

Thank you for your reply. I'm getting a colonoscopy the day before surgery. That will be the first time in four years, so I'm expecting the surgeon to have a clearer game plan as to the surgery that will be necessary. Best case laparoscopic... worst case open. Yes, positive, PATIENT attitude. Thank you.

Thank you for your reply. Six weeks, wow, that's a good bit of time. I guess setting realistic expectations for recovery should be on the top of my list. Christmas will be 2-week post op... I may not be making Christmas dinner!!! Really good to read that you have done OK with your goldens! Thank you!

The only thing I was cautioned about at the hospital was to take care to not let the dogs jump up on my abdomen. I was a bit worried about this, but it has not been a problem. Also, I don’t like to ask for help, but this may be the year to do just that in regards to Christmas dinner❤️

I wonder if anyone feels hard spots in the right abdomen four weeks after surgery? I don’t have a lot of pain, but I can almost trace this hard spot and wonder if it is my swollen colon. Is this normal?

Hi Suzi, I had high anterior resection two years ago for diverticulitis, it takes quite a while for everything to settle down. I think it was probably four to five months for me before I felt anything like normal, my advice is to take your time with everything, I had to learn to be patient but I does get better! Good luck