Ileostomy reversal coming up - what will be my new normal?
Hello all. I was diagnosed with stage 2 colorectal cancer 12/18/19 and had surgery 2/13/20. All cancer was removed. Yay! Left me with an ileostomy.
Now that I am cleared to have it reversed, I’m don’t know what to expect once it’s done. Most of my rectum was removed.
I hear stories of massive diarrhea to constipation. Am I going to be in diapers? Will I able to lead somewhat of a normal bathroom life?
I do not want to keep my ileostomy at all.
Thank you,
Jennifer
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@catherine1290
Were you able to have protein drinks or smoothies immediately after? Or should I avoid dairy for a while?
I’m mostly eating just plain rice and chicken breast.
Thanks!
Thanks Catherine. My surgeon said it was fine, and I started it today. 🤞
Yes add it to water and drink it all quickly as it turns to gel within a minute. Good luck and remember this is all worth it!
My doctor said to stop taking fiber when she told me it was ok to take the loperamide. (Today I am FAR from constipated. Still)
Did you just add the 1 tsp to water?
Add Metamucil one tsp after eating. It will bind everything together and move smoothly. I sympathize deeply. Don't get constipated with anti- diarrhea meds or you will get awful cramps! Remember your colon is relearning how to handle food.
I’m a mess! Yesterday I couldn’t get off the toilet to save my life. They let me start taking an anti- diarrhea med, and that helping a little. I did get to go home on the 3rd day, and that was a blessing. I know it will get better, but it’s definitely been a difficult transition.
I appreciate you checking in with me!😘
How are you doing now 3 days post--op?
Thanks for that info!
SOther suggestions like Worldwide Friends of Ostomy sound great.
Thought I would also mention a conversation I had with a Byram rep about donating supplies. In addition to the typical places she said that to her surprise some of her customers donated to local hospitals (Apparently some smaller hospitals don't have any ostomy supplies, and their patients have to bring their own.)
I agree that would be great to have some place to donate meds.
I have a couple of Rinvoq 15 mg bottles that I got shortly before my ileostomy. My pharmacist suggested posting on Facebook, but I don't want to handle this publicly. I am still waiting to hear back from the local township Senior Center since apprently sometimes they can help.
When my dog died, the regional emergency vet center accepted all of his unused meds, including seizure drugs such as Keppra, Zonisamide and even phenobarbital. Wish I could find something similar for my drugs.