Stoma reversal and bowels

Hi

I had my stoma reversal in june 2021. had a stoma bag for 2 years. It was a nightmare lol. It is almost a year post op but my bowels are still very active. I still cant tell when i would need to go as it just happens and I need to go. I am going about min 8 times a day and sometimes more if I eat something my stomach didnt agree with even though I am still on a low fibre diet.

Please could you tell me what will help to get my bowels to settle such as foods or maybe exercise.

Thanks

  • Hi and thanks for your post

    I can imagine this is pretty stressful and frustrating for you, especially as you have now had the stoma reversed and most probably expected things to have settled down now.

    Everyone is very different and in many cases it will be trial and error as to what foods turn out to be best for you. Sometimes it can take a year or so for things to start settling down .

    Do ask for a referral to a dietician if this hasn't already been done, as they may be able to advise you further. It's important your specialist and nurse at the hospital are aware of any difficulties you may be having, so have a chat with them about this at your next appointment, or give the specialist nurse a call at the clinic.

    The charity Bowel Cancer UK    has some publications on eating well and living well after bowel cancer and you may find them to be of some help. Their forums may also give you the opportunity to talk to people who may have been in a similar situation to yourself.

    It may be helpful keeping a diary over the next month or so, to see if there is any pattern with certain foods triggering more of an upset than others.

    I hope things start improving soon for you

    All the best

    Wanda

  • Hi Wanda

    Thank you ever so much for your help and advise. I am awaiting to see a dietician in April. I was advised there are some exercises that help. But I cant find any specifically for the bowels.

    Really appreciate your kind help

    Fergie

     

    Fer