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Failed resection and recovery


Mon, March 09, 2015 1:11 PM

I recently had my appendix and about 6" of colon taken out and re sectioned. After 6 days of feeling awful a CT scan showed my bowels leaking everywhere so they did another surgery to disconnect my colon and give me a ileostomy. The plan is to let the colon heal and try to reconnect it in a couple months. Meanwhile I've dropped to 115lbs (I'm 6' and normally skinny at 145lbs). I'm on TPN (nutrition bags through picc line at home) to help bulk up, but I'm so skinny my back hurts constantly. Anybody have tips or inspiration for bouncing back from low weight like this? Taking 10mg prednisone (trying to taper off), 75mg azathioprine, and two antibiotics via picc line too.

FPO morbidzen
Joined Mar 9, 2015

Mon, April 13, 2015 5:03 PM

 Reply posted for morbidzen.

I just had surgery to remove my colon. I am 27 years old. I was diagnosed at 18. I was always against it and was certain it would never come to surgery. I was wrong. 

Check out my blog about my experience! mattee66.wordpress.com

FPO mattee66
Joined Apr 13, 2015

Thu, April 09, 2015 4:09 PM

 Reply posted for morbidzen.

Yes. Don't try to "bounce back" from your weight loss. I lost 67 lbs (I didn't have any complications either!). Remember, your body is doing a LOT of healing. Rome wasn't built in a day and your gut won't be either. Focus on high protein, easily digestible foods. Add to that fats (even ice cream). Take anything new in small amounts but eat all day, like every 2 hours. It took a year to get back to my best weight. Ask your doctor about a multivitamin as well but don't go crazy on those weird combinations out there. A waste of money compared to good nutrition designed for your needs. Last of all, the best idea was one given to me by another nurse: If you crave it - eat it. This will help you develop an appetite. For me it was grilled cheese sandwiches.
And last but not least, if you feel like you are not gaining weight fast enough arrange through the doctor's office to see a nutritionist. You don't have to wait for an appointment. The nurse will help you with this. Good Luck!

FPO edwade10
Joined Apr 9, 2015

Wed, March 18, 2015 6:28 PM

 Reply posted for morbidzen.

Thanks for the reply! I've gained about 6 pounds which has given me a bit of cushion to help my back. I've now got this weird cramp on my left side I'm concerned could be colon issues, but also could be muscles. Unfortunately I also developed shingles! They're very uncomfortable, but it's been almost a week and they're going away. I see surgeon tomorrow and I'll finally get my staples out and be able to ask him some questions. Blood clot is scary! Hope you're treating that somehow. If your intestines are leaking that's also a huge problem. They should do a CT scan quick to find out.

FPO morbidzen
Joined Mar 9, 2015

Wed, March 18, 2015 6:10 PM

 Reply posted for morbidzen.

That's definitely a question for your doctor. I had 3' of my terminal ileum, valve, appendix and colon removed 5 weeks ago. Everyone's recovery is different, but I've had a ton of back pain as well. I think most of it is likely from over compensating since I can't use my abs much and not sleeping well. I've found a heating pad helps a little. I really wish I could have a massage, if you can I'd go for it, but unfortunately my surgery caused a blood clot. I also have a leak or inflammation or something, the docs really don't know. Using pillows to prop your knees can also help some. As for the belly pain, your intestines have gone through a lot of trauma so it's possible the discomfort/pain is just the healing process. But do let your doc know so they can check it out. Best of luck with your recovery!

FPO akr008
Joined Sep 2, 2014

Mon, March 09, 2015 1:18 PM

 Reply posted for morbidzen.

Forgot to mention one of my concerns - it feels like I have pain in my stomach area. Could it be due to not eating and now shoveling down solid food? At first I thought it was muscle cramps but seems to come on after eating. My concern is that my disconnected colon could be open and causing issues..

FPO morbidzen
Joined Mar 9, 2015

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