I want a colostomy after having had a ileostomy reversal

Posted by jlind12 @jlind12, Jun 1 3:02am

I had colorectal cancer in 2003, had surgery where they removed 18” of large colon and replaced my rectum. I had an ileostomy for 8 months, then a reversal. I had two rounds of chemo and one round of intensive radiation therapy. I have suffered with worsening constipation since two years after the surgery. It’s now 2024 and I have used and tried every drug on the market with little to no relief. Two years ago I was diagnosed with a neurogenic bladder and use intermittent catheters to empty my bladder. I was told that it was a result of the radiation treatment that affected the nerves in my spine. I believe this is also the cause for my lack of motility in my bowel as well. I have tried Motegrity to help with this, but it’s not really helpful and it’s very expensive. Has anyone ever decided to go back to a colostomy. I’ve spent so much time in my windowless bathroom and I need a life. My surgeon says there’s nothing wrong with my bowels, but he’s only seeing them through the colonoscopy. The pipes may be perfect but if the pump doesn’t work, nothing works! Help

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Colorectal Cancer Support Group.

@jlind12, I added your discussion question to the Ostomy support group as well. Is your surgeon recommending against the colostomy?

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My wife is a CRC patient. After multiple surgeries and radiation to rectal area she suffered with constant need to go to bathroom. It was extremely sad situation, running to the bathroom every 15 mts to half hour.
Due another associated reason she had to undergo colostomy in Feb 24. This has made a huge difference. She visits bathroom about twice a day to empty the pouch , which is a simple process. No restrictions on food either.

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No I am not a health food nut but look into foods that can help move your bowels. Many a drug is developed from ingredients found in food do a google search look at mother nature helping you out

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Have you consulted with a clinical dietitian/nutritionist? Do you know how to balance soluble and insoluble fiber? Do you hydrate enough?
Some people find the I Love U massage useful. Others prefer to take psyllium husk daily.

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