Connect
Problems months after colon resection surgery: What Helps?
Three months after colon resection I had a severe stomach cramp this morning and have not had a bowel movement yet. This is the first time this has happened. So far things have been good.
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Colorectal Cancer Support Group.
Connect
Your post has always been remembered and with hope that you have now experienced a great improvement and recovery!
I would love to have you post your update report concerning the same.
It is of interest to me and I am sure to many others!
Thanks,
PAUL
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI have never forgotten your post concerning your colon resection and recovery problems.
This has now been some time ago and I was hoping that you could now offer an encouraging update! I hope so!
PAUL
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionSo I found out I was experiencing a combination of two issues. First part was due to constipation even though it didn’t seem so intense. The second part was taking Beano. I did not realize that it is not recommended for those allergic to mold. So my body was trying to expel it while I was constipated. So the outcome was intense constipation reactions. I purged my system with Milk of Magnesia and I’ve been better since. Now it’s just minor constipation issues that I regulate with Miralax. This whole experience has been a rollercoaster. But this was also my first surgery and I was lucky we found the cancer early. I appreciate your response! I feel like I’ve received more comfort in reading these forums and browsing Mayo Clinic’s library. It’s how I found out my body is reacting normally post surgery and why. It’s also how I found out Beano was a big culprit in my temporary downfall. What an amazing source of knowledge!
Hi @krazianne, I'm tagging @bjstp329 to make sure they see your questions.
It's hard to be patient with our bodies. In the grand scheme of things, one month after a major surgery is not a very long time. It's been almost 2 weeks since you posted. Have things improved or been reduced? How are you doing?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHow did that go? It’s been a month for me now and I’ve had that off and on when I’m feeling constipated. Doc told me that’s to be expected while I’m still healing. Have you ever had chills, nausea, and abdominal spasms accompany the pain with frequent visits? That’s what I’m currently dealing with.
One thing I found very helpful is vegan protein powder - protein from plant sources, not dairy sources. I would mix the powder with water, not milk, for a very drinkable 20-30g of protein.
That is an interesting question, @apuakumamma, about oncology dieticians. I don't know the answer, but you might ask your oncology team and see what they say.
If you are able to eat pasta, I recently learned that there is a pasta made with chickpea flour and it is quite high in protein. Here is a link to some information about this, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/chickpea-pasta#nutrition
I look forward to hearing from you again. Will you continue to post as you seek answers?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionThankyou indeed for your prompt reply.
This is such a wonderful way to connect. I had begun feeling very isolated ,alone, and confused with my nutrition issue.
I did try to speak to a few dietitians but did not find their advice pointed enough to address my specific situation.
I wonder if there are onco- dietitians who can perceive my unique situation of zero tolerance to all protein foods…….
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHello @apuakumamma and welcome to the Digestive Health support group on Mayo Connect. I am glad that you found this group as Connect has many members who have had similar experiences, and this is a great way to share the journey. Here is a list of many of the discussions about post-resection surgery. I'd encourage you to go through these comments and discussions and then feel free to hit "Reply" to any of the comments and ask questions.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/digestive-gastrointestinal-problems/?search=resection+surgery#discussion-listview
I see that you have had several surgeries, and the last one was earlier this year. As you know, it does take the digestive tract some time to heal and adjust to this new normal. One thing that might be very helpful to you would be to consult with a registered hospital dietitian. If you have not met with one of these professionals yet, I would highly encourage you to ask your doctor for a referral.
I've personally had three resection surgeries of the upper digestive tract and have found the suggestions and help of registered dietician to be valuable. Have you had this type of appointment?
I had lower anterior resection surgery with temp stoma in October 2023, followed by 4 months of chemotherapy and then finally stoma reversal ,end of February 2024.
After the stoma reversal surgery ( end feb 2024 ) , I suffered from intestinal blockage leading to another surgery 4 days after stoma reversal and then followed by ileus for 14 days , all this at the end of feb 2024.
I am a vegetarian mostly but occasionally eat egg and fish.
My problem is nutrition related -
I can only tolerate mashed white rice, and banana .
Absolutely cannot tolerate any lentils,milk or milk products, vegetables or fruits , nor any clear soups of fruit juices.
Therefore I have nil protein intake .
How do I deal with this ?