Rectal Cancer Post Ileostomy Bowel Movements & Contractions

Posted by slippinjimmy @slippinjimmy, Sep 10, 2023

I had a colectomy at the end of May of this year with a temporary ileostomy. The ileostomy take down was at the beginning of August and I'm, glad to be rid of it. I believe a couple inches of my rectum with a dozen or so inches of my lower intestines were removed along with lymph nodes and an artery. My bowel movements are often normal in consistency, but once they start they are small, take place every 5 or 10 minutes for an hour, are urgent, and often result in involuntary stomach contractions, like the kind you get when vomiting during food poisoning. Also, I'm still discharging mucous, and even then it is urgent. I see a lot of people with similar symptoms, but I haven't seen anyone complain about the contractions. Anyone else having these?

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happygrandpa | @happygrandpa | Sep 11, 2023

Hi Slippinjimmy,

Sorry to hear that you experiencing these painful spasms. I had similar issues when I was undergoing chemo radiation and was prescribed dicyclomine as an antispasmodic that seemed to help a great deal. Worth looking into.

After I finish my current chemo treatment, ileostomy take down is next for me. I look forward to it but with some trepidation knowing how challenging the aftermath can be. Wishing you well.

Rich

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Sep 24, 2023

Hi @slippinjimmy, I hope you've seen the reply from @happygrandpa. As he prepares for the ileostomy take down, I'm sure he'll appreciate hearing your experiences.

Regarding the uncomfortable contractions and bowel movement challenges, I added your question to the Ostomy support group as well. I think fellow members @mardee313 @hardingv @cjay @paul28 @kenc may have tips and/or experiences to share with you.

Jimmy, have the spasms improved since you last reported them here?