Problems months after colon resection surgery: What Helps?

Thank you for your wonderful response!
Please let us know the results of your CT SCAN next week.
I have a feeling that you will be getting a good report and finding encouragement for a good recovery!
Many blessings to you! Paul

I'm not sure I'm in the right Support Group. If not, someone please redirect me. Back in April of this year I had a portion of my colon removed due to diverticulitis as well as a fistula that formed from my bowel to my bladder. My surgeon did explain upon one of my follow ups that it could take up to six months before feeling like I didn't have surgery. I believe him now. In addition, I have a hiatal hernia and another smaller hernia by my belly button. The upper part of my abdomen can become distended and hard mainly after eating and quite painful, even to the touch. The pain seems to be extending into my breasts, neck and shoulder areas. I've also been experiencing restlessness in my legs at first, but now all over my body...literally head to toe. Tingling sensations and sharp stabbing sensations. I have had poor circulation in my legs for years, but since the surgery, it's become much worse. Primarily on my left side, my leg is much more painful. Veins have "popped" up or have become more visible, even in my breast and left shoulder. I've had a Pelvic/Abdominal CT with and without contrast and will be having ultrasounds on my left leg & arm next week. Everything I've had done so far has not revealed anything major. My PCP has ordered a Chest CT because there seems to be a raised "mass" across my breastbone. Has anyone had this experience after this sort of surgery? I truly don't know what to think or how to proceed to find answers. I appreciate any feedback and again, if I need to redirect my question, let me know.

Well, I think that you have quite a bit going on that would be of causes not related to colon resection surgery.
Some abdomen distention is normal after colon surgery.
Do not allow yourself to become constipated and eat foods that are easily digested.
I would be very concerned about a large mass in the breastbone area. And how much of your upper body pain could be attributed to the mass ?
Of all thats going on, the mass is closest to your breast, shoulder and neck pain, it would seem.
That and the hernias should take priority while having the scans, other tests and doctor consultations for starters.
Recovery from colon surgery can take many months and maybe a year. That should not be a cause of pain throughout your entire body.
Your doctors need to be addressing all of your issues and answering all of your questions. Make sure they do!
I sincerely wish you to have accurate diagnoses and proper medications going forward and relief of pain very soon!
* if you feel that you are not getting answers or relief, seek a second or third opinion as well.
Best wishes to you!!
Paul

Did it get any better, I had surgery 3 weeks ago for diverticulitis and pulling and pain in my right side is horrible I've had two CT scans that say I'm fine but I can't sit or get up or do anything. I'm just wondering if it got ever got better

Me too!! I had a rectal resection 8months ago, gastrograffin enema test confirms no leakage and clear for reversal BUT I have this mild, uncomfortable, spasm like pain and pressure in my rectum when I sit in it … I wonder if this is normal or I’m to deal with the for long term?
Anyone experiencing this

I’m not sure if you check this site anymore—your post was from 2019. I just want to say you made me feel so much better. I too have been Dr Google. I had 12” of my colon removed with both laparoscopic scars and then an abdominal scar because they couldn’t do it all laparoscopicly. I had my surgery 5 months ago and I still get pain on my right side and pressure when I stand for long periods of time. Thank you for telling me it can last awhile. My doctor says I still have sutures that haven’t dissolved too so that could be causing the pain. I appreciate you making me feel like I’m not crazy and to give it time.

Hello idkaren. I am nearly three weeks out from right hemicolectomy had to go back to ED for pain. I was scared I might have a problem with leaking anastomosis but CT said ok. I have been told to eat normally so I’m trying to do that but have a stitch type pain in My right side. It’s so hard and a real juggling Match isnt it. I do wish you well and hope you get back to normality soon

Hi there my friend I am three weeks out from a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy. My problems are. Constipation and right side pain. Does anyone have any suggestions for a good aperient.? Eating more or less normally with plenty of fruit. Thanks

@mciowamom, how are you feeling today?

Thank you so much for checking in. So very kind. I’m doing much better after I found this site and realize I’m not alone. I’m doing good and really working finding a good balance with exercise. I’ve done too much in the past and am trying to figure out what works best without overdoing it. Still have some pain and still very anxious about having cancer. I am a work in progress. Thank you again for asking. A lot of friends and family disappeared after my diagnosis so it does get lonely.