Fap surgery 30 years, had colostomy bag reversed. Have been issues with going to the toilet ever since.

Hi I had fap surgery about 30 years ago, had the colostomy bag reversed etc, since then I have been running to the toilet constantly especially at night, now I’m getting older I’m really starting to feel the lack of sleep catching up on me, it’s now affecting work, days I don’t go in cause I’m so tired, is there foods that I can eat in the evening that can slow down the amount of times I’m at the toilet 

  • Hi Finn0789 and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry that you are having problems with your bowels since your treatment for bowel cancer. Have you discussed this with your GP?

    For some people who have treatments, they are left with long-term effects on their bowel, which may mean a permanent change in lifestyle and diet.

    It can be that those who have had previous treatments need a lower fibre diet (also known as low residue). This is because the bowel is more sensitive to the fibre and responds by making bowel movements more urgent and in a looser form. Here is an example of a low residue diet which you may find helpful; but your own NHS Trust may have its own.

    Do talk to your doctor to see if this may be relevant to you. Also speak to your GP to see if there is any medication you can safely take, perhaps in the evening, to slow the passage of faeces in your bowels.

    We do have tips for coping with diarrhoea on our website, which may be helpful for you to read, and the bladder and bowel organisation have information too.

    Take care, and I hope this has been useful.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards

    Tina