Misc

bspangler47

Hi, I dont log on to the website very often. It has been 2 yrs since I found out I had colorecetal cancer stage 3. I am in remission now. And I pray that it stays that way. Since going thru chemo and radiation, and several surgeries. I have had several other issues. I had a ilestomy(sp) and they did the reversal. Sometimes I think if I knew what would happen afterwards I wouldnt have done it. I had some of my colon removed due to blockage from the radiation. I also had to have another surgery to reconnect my colon a different way because I couldnt eat or drink, and it wouldnt stay down. I had a feeding tube last yr for about 4 months. Just recently I have been in and out of the ER and hospital due to urinary tract infections and something called "C DIFF". Boy, the C diff was very painful. It took my appetite away. A few weeks ago I was down to 69 lbs. I was severly dehradted(sp). Had to stay in the hospital for a week or so to receive medication via IV. Prior to that I had to go see the urogloist(kidney dr) and was told there was or is a blockage in the right uretara(sp) so they put a stint it. When I was in the hospital a few weeks ago, I felt horrible pain on my left side had to have another stint for my left. They say my kidneys are fine. Meanwhile, I have loose stools and sometimes they are starting to form. I wear diapers 24/7, which I am used to know (boy are they getting expensive along with the different ointments I buy over the counter). I try to follow the no fry foods etc. I try to eat chicken, salmon, rice, white bread. Just lately I am able to drink sweat tea without making a trip to the bathroom. My bottom gets so sore and irrated(sp) that I have to take numerous sitz baths during the day and sometimes during the night. I have to take so much Lomtiol(sp) and immodium to try to slow everything down. I have to take pain pills almost everynight plus Ativan. Sorry I keep rambling on but can someone suggest any receipes for fish, salmon and chicken etc. Not sure about juice drinks I am afraid it will create loose stools. I just finally started to drink walmarts brand of ensure. I do know my appetite has increased.

Does everyone that had or has colorectal cancer still have loose stools? Wear diapers?

Any suggestions for what to eat or not eat? I usually try to eat something they say you arent suppose. I know right away if I can or not.

I was told last night by my cancer dr my urinary tract infection is still there and shouldnt be since I am on medication to clear it up. He also said that my tumor marker is in normal limits but alittle high which surprised him. He believes it is because of the c diff I had this yr and last yr.

Again sorry for me rambling on and on. Thank you all for listening.

Barbara

John23

Barbara -

Re:
"I have had several other issues. I had a ilestomy(sp) and they
did the reversal. Sometimes I think if I knew what would happen
afterwards I wouldnt have done it."

You didn't mention how much colon was left, but if it's less than
2 foot, the watery problem is to be expected.

I have an Ileostomy, and only about 1 foot of colon remains,
A reversal will leave me with the bowel problems you're
experiencing, and the reason I've opted not to have a reversal.

Since you presently have all the problems with the colon, it
might not be a bad idea to get other colorectal surgeon's
opinions regarding an Ileostomy. If it's placed in a spot
that's best for you, it certainly would remove the ills and
inconvenience you're having to deal with now.

Re:
"I was told last night by my cancer dr my urinary tract infection
is still there and shouldnt be since I am on medication to clear it up. "

You oughta' get to a urologist and find out exactly what kind
of infection that really is. Treatments for the wrong thing just
won't work, and usually make things worse.

Also..... if you're experiencing loose movements due to a too
short colon, any drug that is "slow release" may not be very effective,
as it may pass through your system too fast. A decent colorectal
surgeon could offer best advice regarding that.

Hope you begin feeling better soon!

John

Patteee

John23 said:

Barbara -

Re:
"I have had several other issues. I had a ilestomy(sp) and they
did the reversal. Sometimes I think if I knew what would happen
afterwards I wouldnt have done it."

You didn't mention how much colon was left, but if it's less than
2 foot, the watery problem is to be expected.

I have an Ileostomy, and only about 1 foot of colon remains,
A reversal will leave me with the bowel problems you're
experiencing, and the reason I've opted not to have a reversal.

Since you presently have all the problems with the colon, it
might not be a bad idea to get other colorectal surgeon's
opinions regarding an Ileostomy. If it's placed in a spot
that's best for you, it certainly would remove the ills and
inconvenience you're having to deal with now.

Re:
"I was told last night by my cancer dr my urinary tract infection
is still there and shouldnt be since I am on medication to clear it up. "

You oughta' get to a urologist and find out exactly what kind
of infection that really is. Treatments for the wrong thing just
won't work, and usually make things worse.

Also..... if you're experiencing loose movements due to a too
short colon, any drug that is "slow release" may not be very effective,
as it may pass through your system too fast. A decent colorectal
surgeon could offer best advice regarding that.

Hope you begin feeling better soon!

John

Barbara
Have you thought
Barbara

Have you thought about or worked with a dietitian that specializes with cancer patients? Or colon issue patients, or something. I just know that the first time I was hospitalized for chemo reactions, I met with a dietitian who was very helpful in not only understanding the problem but with solutions. Times of the day, time inbetween certain foods, what to eat, what not to eat.

idlehunters

Patteee said:

Barbara
Have you thought
Barbara

Have you thought about or worked with a dietitian that specializes with cancer patients? Or colon issue patients, or something. I just know that the first time I was hospitalized for chemo reactions, I met with a dietitian who was very helpful in not only understanding the problem but with solutions. Times of the day, time inbetween certain foods, what to eat, what not to eat.

Hi
I had severe diarrhea for many months and went 20-30 times a day. After a hospital stay and numerous tests they found I was missing a digestive enzyme. They gave me a supplement to take for it...... no more pooping problems!!!! Just an idea you might want to check into. Good luck and take care.

Jennie