Colon Resection for Diverticulitis and Chronic Constipation

Posted by tracy430 @tracy430, Jan 27, 2019

Hi All,

My name is Tracy. I had sigmoid colon resection just about 7 weeks ago for diverticulitis. Before surgery, I could count on one hand the times in my life I needed to take a laxative. Now, I don't really have a choice, as I am suffering from chronic constipation. My surgeon gives me no recommendations, with the exception of more fiber, more water and to be more optimistic that it will improve. I get more depressed by the day, as this is coloring every aspect of my life. My surgeon told me having this surgery would "give me my life back". So far, it's taken all the joy from it. Any input would be appreciated.

Thank you.

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Sorry to hear this, Tracy, but I am 84 and had same surgery 2 years ago. My feces now comes out in small, hard round balls (TMI, I know). I was also told to eat more fiber; and to drink 64 ounces of water daily. I find this very helpful and, occasionally, have "normal" bowel movements. I was not a fan of beans but am able to eat them with salad dressing.

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@ppat4pr

Sorry to hear this, Tracy, but I am 84 and had same surgery 2 years ago. My feces now comes out in small, hard round balls (TMI, I know). I was also told to eat more fiber; and to drink 64 ounces of water daily. I find this very helpful and, occasionally, have "normal" bowel movements. I was not a fan of beans but am able to eat them with salad dressing.

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I also hate water so I mix it with iced tea, small amount of soda, etc.

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@diver126

Thank you for your candor. I am still on the fence on this and was hoping that watching my diet would take care of it but if that won’t help I will probably go through with surgery if I continue having these episodes. ☹️

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Sorry I have been out of power for 9 days. All I could think was I am glad I had that surgery.
It will be where you eliminate so much in your diet you will not have good nourishment.
I was supposed to be robotic, and they ended up cutting me from belly button down and had to call other Dr's to help to make sure other organs were not damage.
He said that there was so much damage and scar tissue from all the episodes.
Not trying to scare you. But, really just want to help.

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