After colon resection: What helps with severe gas?

Watery diarrhea was my only symptom that something was wrong and lead to my first colonoscopy that found cancer.
I had the watery diarrhea for many months before my resection and I have continued to have the same for 9 months after surgery.
Actually, every time I think that things are getting better, I have another tremendous episode like yesterday while in Walmart.
I frequent the same places most of the time and I absolutely know where the restrooms are.
I do not have a bag. Diarrhea is my only problem. I have noticed that gas seems to get trapped and causing bloating.
And yes, when it does let loose, it is best to be at home.
I would imagine a follow-up with your doctor is in order.
Stay on it and get help.

Hi,
Ever since my colorectal surgery I have chronic, watery diarrhea and very load gas and it makes me very self conscious. It has been hard for me to be social or go out where I don’t know the restroom situation. I am grateful that my life was saved but am so embarrassed my life has become so limited. Does anyone have a similar problem or any suggestions that could help with the sound? My colostomy bag also farted which I do not think is as common but was hoping to regain my life and it’s now been years of severe anxiety. Thank you.

Hi @fatfreelife1, I hope you saw the helpful reply from @bea1972

How are you doing? Has the cramping and gas improved?

Hi,
Yes, gas is normal. Walking a lot helps. Gatorade has a lot of chemicals and sugar which can upset gas as well. Try drinking tea instead. But, I'm always happy with gas since it means I do not have a blockage. It'll get better. Hope you have a nice weekend.

Hi,

I am one week post sigmoidectomy with a stoma. I'm currently eating soup, crackers & gatorade. However, an hour after I eat, I get these horrible cramping gas pains that last about 10 minutes. Is this normal after this procedure? If so, is there any way to alleviate it? I want to be able to eat more things but the cramping pains after I eat are horrible...

I have Diabetes II and gastroparesis along with the Colon resection...trying to balance what you can eat for this without messing with that it's just trying to work out all the the kinks. I know one of these days I'm gonna get it right 😄😄. Thank you all for your encouraging advice and support. Look forward to reading it all. Take care.

That's a good question to ask a GI dietician, @ladd13.

Here's some info from Mayo experts that may give you more info about the FODMAP diet so that you know what questions to ask:
- What exactly is the FODMAP diet? Dr. Wang explains https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/gastroenterology-and-gi-surgery/newsfeed-post/what-exactly-is-the-fodmap-diet-dr-wang-explains/
- A Map for the FODMAP Diet https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/gastroenterology-and-gi-surgery/newsfeed-post/a-map-for-the-fodmap-diet/

Additionally, here's a related discussion where members are talking about
- Fodmap Eating Plan https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/fodmap-eating-plan/

Please let us know what you learn about gas after colon resection and the FODMAP diet.

I’m meeting with a GI dietician in the AM.
Want to discuss if a Liw Fodmap diet really helps.
Has anyone done this diet!

Hi colon resectioners and other colon adventurers! Gas…. We all know about gas. I think it’s a given that along our colon journey, we will encounter our bodies adjusting to our “new” normal. I definitely recommend some type of gas relief. Lots of otc choices. I remember after my re-section surgery, I had some painful moments. I think gas created pressure on my incision, thus the pain. You should get some relief when using gas-x, etc. if not, check in with your doctor. I started making food choices that were easy for me to digest. It’s pretty much trial and error for each of us. I will say having gas (within reason) is our body’s way of saying “I’m working here!” That’s a good thing. The back and forth between constipation and loose bowel maybe due to a medication you maybe taking. Make sure you are getting those good microorganisms (pro and prebiotics) so you have a good working digestion. Kefir is what I drank, but if that is not palatable, there are other avenues. I think our bodies take a punishment with all this, so we have to re-establish good digestion and absorption of food. It’s a journey…. Virgo 52

Hi Colleen,
Thanks for your reply. Yes, it's getting a bit better..of course still in the midst of reacting what foods cause the gas and learning to eat the right meals. Once again thank you.

Karina