rfriend
12-21-2003, 04:00 PM
Can anyone realte to me. I am a 27 year old female and have my third case of diverticulitis since the end of July, one of which has put me in the hospital. I don't have much the thehistory that they belive leads to diverticular diease. I have never been constipated in my life, however I have a very spastic bowel and have several BMs a day. I have also been a vegitraian for 16 years. But I have had every test to confirm that I have diverticular disease/diverticulitis. My doctor has advised me that surgery is highly reccomended and I agree. The problem is that he wants to wait until I have been clear of infection for 8 weeks before surgery. I finish my last dose of antibiotics tommrow for the most recent case and things are not looking much better. I am so tired of being sick I feel like it is running my life. Has anyone out there had the resection surgery for this reason? And do you think that it was the right decision? I welcome any encourging advise from anyone. Please help!!
Thanks, Rfriend.
Thanks, Rfriend.
Sponsor
Harry
12-22-2003, 01:17 AM
The best thing to do now is start taking a water soluble fiber supplement like Metamucil twice daily. It is safe to take daily , will bulk up your stool and clean out your colon resulting in keeping your divericular cleaner and less infection problems.
It's worth a try before you consider colon surgery.
God bless---Harry
It's worth a try before you consider colon surgery.
God bless---Harry
auntjudyg
12-22-2003, 10:45 AM
When I was diagnosed, it was quite a surprise. I thought the one thing that worked well was my colon. I ate a fair amount of fiber (certainly much more than average), was always very regular, so who knows? Like so many things, there is a hereditary component for many. It ends up my grandmother had diverticulosis and her uncle died bowel infection, and I have meant to check out other branches of the family, but haven't so far.
Being a vegetarian, it is difficult to believe you are not getting at least close to the recommended 20-30 grams of fiber. Do you eat yogurt regularly and some raw fruits and veggies to get nice enzymes into your system.
The one thing I have found helpful that might not be adequate in a vegetarian diet is sufficient good fat. Do you tend towards low fat? Do you take or would you consider a fish oil supplement?
Being a vegetarian, it is difficult to believe you are not getting at least close to the recommended 20-30 grams of fiber. Do you eat yogurt regularly and some raw fruits and veggies to get nice enzymes into your system.
The one thing I have found helpful that might not be adequate in a vegetarian diet is sufficient good fat. Do you tend towards low fat? Do you take or would you consider a fish oil supplement?
unclem
12-22-2003, 12:26 PM
Hi,
I am recovering from my colon resection now. I had the surgery on 12/8/03. I will tell you that it was the best decision I made in years.
I'm sure your doctor has you on a low residue diet right now.
(no fruits, veggies, whole grain products) To get things calmed down.
I would seek out a surgeon and speak with him or her.
My surgeon recommended to treat my diverticular disease medically before finally recommending surgery. He put me on a high fiber diet but I had another attack within 6 months.
I'm feeling better than I have in 5 years when my diverticulitis first put me in the hospital. I would give surgery serious consideration especially considering your age. Hopefully, you'll find a good LAP surgeon as I did.
Best of luck to you and I hope you feel better.
I am recovering from my colon resection now. I had the surgery on 12/8/03. I will tell you that it was the best decision I made in years.
I'm sure your doctor has you on a low residue diet right now.
(no fruits, veggies, whole grain products) To get things calmed down.
I would seek out a surgeon and speak with him or her.
My surgeon recommended to treat my diverticular disease medically before finally recommending surgery. He put me on a high fiber diet but I had another attack within 6 months.
I'm feeling better than I have in 5 years when my diverticulitis first put me in the hospital. I would give surgery serious consideration especially considering your age. Hopefully, you'll find a good LAP surgeon as I did.
Best of luck to you and I hope you feel better.
deortiz
12-23-2003, 06:08 PM
Hi! My husband is also waiting to have colon resection surgery. Since he keeps gettings these episodes of diverticulitis, it looks like surgery is the way to go. We're also going to a naturopath in the mean time. Make sure you get a good colon surgeon who works out of a good hospital. Hope everything works well for you.
Regards, DEO
Regards, DEO
rfriend
12-26-2003, 04:31 PM
Thanks for all the great tips! This episode put me back into the hospital and I was lucky enougth to get out on Christmas. I have seen a surgeon and the plan now is to keep it uninfected for the next 8 weeks and then go ahead with surgery. Again thanks agaain for the support. One more question... After the surgery do you have to stick to the same diet (no nuts, berries and that type of stuff)? Belive me the last thing I want to do is have it flair up again.
Thanks again,
RFriend
Thanks again,
RFriend
ken1967
12-27-2003, 02:45 AM
hi, i just went threw the 2nd phase of the colon resection surgery on 12/18/03, i had the full incision operation,they couldnt do the lap surgery when i had the emergency surgery for a perforation back on 9/11/03, this operation was a bit more painful , they had to take out alot of scar tissue and of course im sore because they had to go back in threw the same incision again, and also my colon is now hooked up and working for the first time in 3 months(no more colostomy), of course if all works well and im free from divers for the rest of my life, then of course this was all worth it, best thing is to talk to a surgeon and go from there, good luck, and the doctor has told me to stay away from raw veggies and fruits and nuts,popcorn etc for now
unclem
12-27-2003, 06:05 PM
The only restrictions on me is no nuts, corn or peas.
Of course, I have another 2 weeks to go on the low residue diet.
Best of luck to you.
Of course, I have another 2 weeks to go on the low residue diet.
Best of luck to you.
MNangel
12-30-2003, 12:10 AM
I am 40 and had no clue I had diverticulosis until I had a diverticulitis attack in October. Like you I have never had a constipation problem. I just think sometimes you are just pre-destined to things. I need a colon resection as well and am waiting to clear up a c. difficile infection. Your doctor just wants you to not have an infection before surgery. Eat yogurt with live cultures to put some good stuff back in your system. Hang in there. It will get better. All the best to you.
deortiz
12-30-2003, 04:38 PM
May I ask: Have all of you with diverticulitis also had back problems? (Just wondering if there's a link here.)
Harry
12-31-2003, 01:39 AM
I had diverticulitis for at least 25 years off and on and never had back pain.
I had all of my diverticulars removed when 2 1/2 feet of my colon was removed on 4/4/02 because of chronic diverticular bleeding.
THe urge I now get for a BM with a shorter colon is very odd-- nothing like normal.
I had all of my diverticulars removed when 2 1/2 feet of my colon was removed on 4/4/02 because of chronic diverticular bleeding.
THe urge I now get for a BM with a shorter colon is very odd-- nothing like normal.
amwood
12-31-2003, 01:51 AM
I noticed that some of you have had a colon resection done. I'm having a small bowel resection done laparoscopically next week (to remove a small bowel tumor) and I'm wondering if my experience will be similar to yours? Does anyone know if these resections are similar to each other, even if they're in different parts of bowel? Did you have a lot of pain when you ate after the surgery? And, were your resections done completely laparoscopically, or did they have to make an incision at some point? My surgeon said most of mine would be done laparoscopically but they will most likely have to make a small incision. Just curious ~ thanks
unclem
01-03-2004, 12:15 AM
The doctor will still have to make an incision to remove the diseased portion of the intestine from the body cavity. Because my diseased portion was very rigid the doc made a slightly larger incision than he originally told me. Not a big deal to me as everything else went according to plan.
Best of luck on the surgery and you'll be in my prayers.
Best of luck on the surgery and you'll be in my prayers.
MizzMo
01-19-2004, 08:57 PM
I have over the course of ten years, been having this problem. It comes on, then on my left side, the pain is like someone stapled my intestine closed. I get constipation with it, and usually takes about a week before I am feeling better. I didn't know what it was til last night, a friend told me her mom has this. I also found out this is what my sister went thru a couple years ago and she had part of her bowel reconstructed.
When I did a search online for it, candida came up with this as well. To me it seems very likely I could be having problems with candida as well. Many of the symptons of candida I have, like arthritus, irrititable bowel, headaches, the list goes on.
Does anyone know anything about candida and related problems like this?
I am currently coming out of a bout of what appears to me be diverticulitus and am starting to have small bowel movements.
When I did a search online for it, candida came up with this as well. To me it seems very likely I could be having problems with candida as well. Many of the symptons of candida I have, like arthritus, irrititable bowel, headaches, the list goes on.
Does anyone know anything about candida and related problems like this?
I am currently coming out of a bout of what appears to me be diverticulitus and am starting to have small bowel movements.
deortiz
01-29-2004, 05:19 PM
I have over the course of ten years, been having this problem. It comes on, then on my left side, the pain is like someone stapled my intestine closed. I get constipation with it, and usually takes about a week before I am feeling better. I didn't know what it was til last night, a friend told me her mom has this. I also found out this is what my sister went thru a couple years ago and she had part of her bowel reconstructed.
When I did a search online for it, candida came up with this as well. To me it seems very likely I could be having problems with candida as well. Many of the symptons of candida I have, like arthritus, irrititable bowel, headaches, the list goes on.
Does anyone know anything about candida and related problems like this?
I am currently coming out of a bout of what appears to me be diverticulitus and am starting to have small bowel movements.
My husband had a mild bout of candida from the antibiotics he was prescribed because of his episodes of diverticulitis. Have you been taking lots of antibiotics?
D
When I did a search online for it, candida came up with this as well. To me it seems very likely I could be having problems with candida as well. Many of the symptons of candida I have, like arthritus, irrititable bowel, headaches, the list goes on.
Does anyone know anything about candida and related problems like this?
I am currently coming out of a bout of what appears to me be diverticulitus and am starting to have small bowel movements.
My husband had a mild bout of candida from the antibiotics he was prescribed because of his episodes of diverticulitis. Have you been taking lots of antibiotics?
D
Jenetti
01-29-2004, 07:22 PM
THe urge I now get for a BM with a shorter colon is very odd-- nothing like normal.[/QUOTE]
Hey Harry, since thats something my GI doc mentioned (giving me a shorter colon), im interested. Can you explain the "urge" a bit more, you say its nothing like normal, can you sorta tell us what it feels like??
Thanks,
Jen
Hey Harry, since thats something my GI doc mentioned (giving me a shorter colon), im interested. Can you explain the "urge" a bit more, you say its nothing like normal, can you sorta tell us what it feels like??
Thanks,
Jen
MizzMo
01-30-2004, 01:52 PM
No, haven't taken any antibiotics for some time, but do get yeast infections occasionally.
My husband had a mild bout of candida from the antibiotics he was prescribed because of his episodes of diverticulitis. Have you been taking lots of antibiotics?
D
My husband had a mild bout of candida from the antibiotics he was prescribed because of his episodes of diverticulitis. Have you been taking lots of antibiotics?
D
deortiz
01-30-2004, 06:09 PM
No, haven't taken any antibiotics for some time, but do get yeast infections occasionally.
Best diets for candida seems to be light meats & veggies - it's advisable to stay away from bread. Maybe do more research on exactly what other foods "feed" the yeast.
Best diets for candida seems to be light meats & veggies - it's advisable to stay away from bread. Maybe do more research on exactly what other foods "feed" the yeast.
deortiz
02-05-2004, 03:21 PM
Question to anyone who's already had a colon resection, without a bag, for diverticulitis: How long afterwards before you start feeling well enough to go back to your routine (office, physical work, etc)?
deortiz
02-05-2004, 03:23 PM
No, haven't taken any antibiotics for some time, but do get yeast infections occasionally.
Look into taking acidophilus and/or probiotics. Go to your local health food store & ask what they have...
Look into taking acidophilus and/or probiotics. Go to your local health food store & ask what they have...
auntjudyg
02-05-2004, 04:30 PM
Question to anyone who's already had a colon resection, without a bag, for diverticulitis: How long afterwards before you start feeling well enough to go back to your routine (office, physical work, etc)?
There is a big difference depending on whether it is done laproscopically or with a full incision.
There is a big difference depending on whether it is done laproscopically or with a full incision.
deortiz
02-06-2004, 05:28 PM
auntjudyg
The surgery was done laparoscopically.
The surgery was done laparoscopically.
auntjudyg
02-07-2004, 08:16 PM
My experience is with the full incision. From what I have read and heard . . . if all goes well, some people get back to work within about 10 days to 2 weeks.
unclem
02-08-2004, 05:11 PM
Shoot, It took me that long and I had it done lap. <g>
From all the docs I talked to leading up to making my decision on surgeons was that with the full cut it could take anywhere up to 6 months.
From all the docs I talked to leading up to making my decision on surgeons was that with the full cut it could take anywhere up to 6 months.
auntjudyg
02-08-2004, 06:31 PM
Whoops! Sorry, I wasn't clear there. The 10 days to 2 weeks is about lap, not incision. The general time back to work from full incision is 4 to 8 weeks (though my surgeon told me about someone who was anxious and went back after two weeks [can you imagine?]).
b51kitty
02-26-2004, 12:21 PM
Has anyone had any problems AFTER the colon resectino surgery, and if so, what kind? Right by my belly button, sometimes gets very very hard and hurts very bad. It does go away fairly quickly, but the pain hurts and is uncomfortable. I had my gallbladder out in January and asked him to check it out. He said he only saw adhesions and wanted to leave them alone. Can adhesions cause this pain? I wake up really really sore in that area. I can't even blow my nose normally for fear of whatever it is in my stomach exploding. After I go to the bathroom it eventually subsides. Any suggestions?
b51kitty
02-26-2004, 12:28 PM
I was back at work in 1 month. full incision, no bag.
deortiz
02-27-2004, 03:03 PM
kitty
This sounds like a condition you should call your colo-rectal surgeon about...
This sounds like a condition you should call your colo-rectal surgeon about...
deortiz
02-27-2004, 03:07 PM
I was back at work in 1 month. full incision, no bag.
Wow!
My husband's surgeon told him not to lift anything over 25 lbs. until week 6 (post-op). Since his job is pretty physical, he's waiting another week before he goes back to work.
Wow!
My husband's surgeon told him not to lift anything over 25 lbs. until week 6 (post-op). Since his job is pretty physical, he's waiting another week before he goes back to work.
donnaw1
03-29-2004, 02:43 PM
Rfriend:
I had a colon resection on February 4th. My colon resection was not laproscopic because I had too much infection. My colon had also perferated (sp?) because of all the infection. I wouldn't wait too long to have the surgery. I am 39 and they really thought I was way too young to be having these problems; I can't imagine how you must feel. I started getting sick in December and by the time Feb rolled around they took me into surgery. I started abcessing because the infection was spreading. You've probably had the surgery by now, but anyone else who's thinking about waiting; if you can't get better, it might only get worse. Don't take surgery lightly, but don't take Diverticulitis lightly either. Your colon could tear and then you are in a life threatening situation like I was. The wall of the colon gets thinner with Diverticulitis.
Hope I've helped someone. I hope you get better soon!
Donnaw1 :angel:
I had a colon resection on February 4th. My colon resection was not laproscopic because I had too much infection. My colon had also perferated (sp?) because of all the infection. I wouldn't wait too long to have the surgery. I am 39 and they really thought I was way too young to be having these problems; I can't imagine how you must feel. I started getting sick in December and by the time Feb rolled around they took me into surgery. I started abcessing because the infection was spreading. You've probably had the surgery by now, but anyone else who's thinking about waiting; if you can't get better, it might only get worse. Don't take surgery lightly, but don't take Diverticulitis lightly either. Your colon could tear and then you are in a life threatening situation like I was. The wall of the colon gets thinner with Diverticulitis.
Hope I've helped someone. I hope you get better soon!
Donnaw1 :angel:
b51kitty
03-30-2004, 12:24 PM
Has ANYONE ever had problems AFTER colon re-section? like possibly a herniated intestine? I'm not sure what I have, but its been a year after the re-section. All was great, at first, then about 6-8 months down the road this started happening. I would nurse it along, then my gall bladder flared up and I had that removed this January. I told the surgeon what was going on and he said he would look. He did and said he didn't see anything. However.. its still going on. At random.. something will flare up and get super hard and will protrude next and into my belly button area. Will stay hard for a while and makes me really want to throw up, very sick feeling. It will go away shortly thereafter and seems to be relieved some when I go to the bathroom (again.. althou have no feeling that I need to go- but seem to) then it will subside and eventually the knot will go down and back to normal. Then..it leaves me feeling awful that day and usually the next day too. I am keeping log of what I eat and was thinking that it was anything greasy, corn, pizza, but then it just out of the blue does it and even if I've not eaten anything. so I just don't know. Does anyone have any ideas? I really do not want to have surgery again..
b51kitty
04-05-2004, 11:34 AM
:wave: Sure do hope your feel better now! Try to be careful and esp. lifting and bending. I was cut above belly al the way down since I was so badly infected also. It was not a nice operation, thats for sure. Had I known what was bothering me I definately could of took better care of myself, but had tons of tests and drs. and no one, found anything, until the last 6 months. Apparently I had it over 2 years and what an awful 2 years that was. I am battlying something else now-possible hernia or something.. and am going to see surgeon this wed. I just hope I don't have to end up back there again.
resection
04-17-2004, 12:13 PM
I am in the same boat - 39 male. I am having my lap sig colon resection this Friday, April 23, 2004. I have had five bouts of diverticulitis under my belt. One landed me in the hospital. Three have been in the last four months: Jan, Feb, April.
My wife is afraid I will die if I do not get the resection. Besides, life with my gut is becoming a nuisance. So, I am not overly concerned about the pain. It will be what it will be and from what I read, it does not last forever. Don’t get me wrong, I am nervous, maybe even frightened somewhat, but worrying is not going to change the outcome. I read another post that helped to put things in perspective … at least it is not a terminal condition. The man with no shoes complained until he saw the man with not feet.
My last supper is on Monday. Three days without food seems like that might be pretty tough too.
Of course, I hope everything goes according to textbook. Beyond that, I hope I deal with it a courageous and dignified way. Maybe there is no way to have a dignified colon procedure.
My purpose for coming to the boards today is to help with the fear. It is not crippling, but I am jumpy. Also, I do not have a good feel for what life after the first three or four months is really like. For some people, it looks like there diet is forever altered. How bad is it? What is totally out? What is the same? What is different?
Can someone who has been there hold my hand and tell me straight? What is life on the other side like?
Counting down the days to the resection …..
My wife is afraid I will die if I do not get the resection. Besides, life with my gut is becoming a nuisance. So, I am not overly concerned about the pain. It will be what it will be and from what I read, it does not last forever. Don’t get me wrong, I am nervous, maybe even frightened somewhat, but worrying is not going to change the outcome. I read another post that helped to put things in perspective … at least it is not a terminal condition. The man with no shoes complained until he saw the man with not feet.
My last supper is on Monday. Three days without food seems like that might be pretty tough too.
Of course, I hope everything goes according to textbook. Beyond that, I hope I deal with it a courageous and dignified way. Maybe there is no way to have a dignified colon procedure.
My purpose for coming to the boards today is to help with the fear. It is not crippling, but I am jumpy. Also, I do not have a good feel for what life after the first three or four months is really like. For some people, it looks like there diet is forever altered. How bad is it? What is totally out? What is the same? What is different?
Can someone who has been there hold my hand and tell me straight? What is life on the other side like?
Counting down the days to the resection …..
b51kitty
04-18-2004, 11:57 PM
I had the full blown surgery, cut above belly button all the way down. I was a mess inside- since I did not know I had diverticulitis. ----- I had no idea with I was getting into except I had no choice. My colon was not where it even should be but was all adhered to my female parts. No MIR or anything even showed all that until he cut me open. I was in hosp 6 days, was Very afraid I would come out of there with a bag- and was worried daily as they heard "no sounds". On the 5th night, they could hear some bowel wounds and he said I would be ok. I was. Then on the 6th day I did something- like mud.. Dr. said it will be ok, its working. He let me go home that day. I really felt great in a few weeks and went back to work in a month. (although 6 weeks would of been better I think..) Nothing (in the bathroom dept.) will seem the same right away, but in time it will, so be patient. I was told I could eat anything and I did. And now.. well.. sometimes I can but sometimes I can't. I think it is a forever condition, once you are prone to it. I have never had that type of pain again and for that I am thankful! You have a right to feel jumpy, and I didn't think it was a nice operation. Getting you up and walking was extremely hard for a few days but I hear that with the lap. version, that it is much easier and not all the severe things I had to go through. After 1,1/2 years now, I pretty much still stay away from corn and real greasy foods as that tends to bother me. My Dr. told me no white bread.. Also, lettuce plays havoc with me, I can eat some, but not like a big salad. I try to stay away from anything with seeds, like nuts, strawberries, etc. (although once in a while I still try a bite). I have been free of all that bad pain until just recent. I went to hosp for small bowel tests this past Tuesday. I do not have many "urges" to go for some reason and am not sure if my large is emptying into the small as it should. I too.. pray that I do NOT have to go through it again. I would think that lap. would be alot better.. You hang in there... things will get better- many of us have gone through it and we are here to help! Luckily.. I ran across this board afterwards. Now, I know several people that have had it and all is okay with them. The fear is just in the unknown. I had 13, 1/2" of colon removed as well as half my female parts.. Now I am having some problems and maybe its because I didn't eat the healthy way and do everything as I should. It is hard as you seem to fall back on old habits. I love sweets and all that white flour, white sugar, and breads.. are my downfall. I am trying to change my eating and look for foods with "high fiber". It was hard finding a "chart" - but someone told me where to go. so, if you need it, let me now! That will give you idea of what is healthy for you to eat. So.. life on the other side, is much better now. Learn to drink lots of water if you haven't already. as that is also good for you. Take care and hope all goes ok for you on the 23rd! Remember.. you have to do this to get well.. You will feel so much better.. hang in there... you'll see.
resection
04-19-2004, 12:16 AM
Thank you, thank you. I really appreciate your candor and support. I think I am really going to miss the fresh veggies if that is the case. As it is, I ache for corn on occasion. This board is so what I need.
Those that have gone before seem to be better for me to talk to than the doc's. Not knowing is maybe the second worst for me. The waiting is what is dragging me. I have been waiting to be well enough for surgery for months now. Now that I am in the final stretch, the anxiety of waiting is being replaced with the jumpy knot in my stomach that only comes from really big-time permanent decisions. Super-stress. I am hesitant to take a pill for the edge. I don’t want anything to complicate the procedure on the big day.
Thanks and Peace
Those that have gone before seem to be better for me to talk to than the doc's. Not knowing is maybe the second worst for me. The waiting is what is dragging me. I have been waiting to be well enough for surgery for months now. Now that I am in the final stretch, the anxiety of waiting is being replaced with the jumpy knot in my stomach that only comes from really big-time permanent decisions. Super-stress. I am hesitant to take a pill for the edge. I don’t want anything to complicate the procedure on the big day.
Thanks and Peace
b51kitty
04-19-2004, 12:26 AM
Don't fret- you can still eat fresh veggies (just prob no corn..)
resection
04-19-2004, 09:45 AM
Good morning,
I feel better now after getting some sleep and reading your post first thing this AM. QOL (quality of life) after surgery is certainly on my mind. I wondered last night if I was doing the right by moving forward with the surgery at this time, and if I would regret it later. I wondered if there was some non-surgical treatment that was less difficult.
Wife didn't go for it. Also, I read yet another article on medical best practice clearly indicating surgery for patients under 40 or 45 although controversial as to whether to perform after the first episode. The reoccurrence and complications are higher and the disease more aggressive in younger patients.
A potential life of loose and urgent stools is also not a comforting outcome. But, again it is all relative. I am sure there are many, many people would trade places with me in a heartbeat.
Mostly, I know it is a matter of acceptance and adjustment and, a little understanding and adjustment on the part of my family's diet.
Still it is a hard pill to swallow. I am not expecting the Good Lord to take this cup from me. So, I need to come to terms with it.
Thank you again for your post.
I feel better now after getting some sleep and reading your post first thing this AM. QOL (quality of life) after surgery is certainly on my mind. I wondered last night if I was doing the right by moving forward with the surgery at this time, and if I would regret it later. I wondered if there was some non-surgical treatment that was less difficult.
Wife didn't go for it. Also, I read yet another article on medical best practice clearly indicating surgery for patients under 40 or 45 although controversial as to whether to perform after the first episode. The reoccurrence and complications are higher and the disease more aggressive in younger patients.
A potential life of loose and urgent stools is also not a comforting outcome. But, again it is all relative. I am sure there are many, many people would trade places with me in a heartbeat.
Mostly, I know it is a matter of acceptance and adjustment and, a little understanding and adjustment on the part of my family's diet.
Still it is a hard pill to swallow. I am not expecting the Good Lord to take this cup from me. So, I need to come to terms with it.
Thank you again for your post.
auntjudyg
04-19-2004, 06:36 PM
Everyone has different experiences, I guess (after a resection). Fresh veggies and fruits are what keep me going! Initially I didn't eat many raw - soups, stirfrys, etc. It was meat, poultry, even fairly light fish got me going. I have worked back into it, but it took many months. Grains are what continue to cause me problems . . . so my fiber comes mostly from veggies . . . and now (almost 4 years later) some raw everyday (usually cucumbers and romaine) are helpful.
There is disagreement even on whether the nuts and seeds restriction applies to everyone. Personally, I eat both with no problems. Who knows?
There is disagreement even on whether the nuts and seeds restriction applies to everyone. Personally, I eat both with no problems. Who knows?
resection
04-20-2004, 01:42 AM
Thanks Aunty,
This board has been so helpful. Part of what causes me stress is the common thread of having to go through a trial and error process to figure out what one can tolerate. I have always HATED surprises, and this is a going to be a big one.
I was talking with my wife tonight about how she felt. She feels good, I feel good. Mostly, we feel good. Sometimes we just get a little edgy, then, it is time to pray, and dig up more information about what is on our minds.
I have a very dear aunt that just had a mastectomy last week. She lives right here in town. She is quite happy to be home, albeit a little light. She has had a colostomy for 12 years now. We do many things together. We spoke a few days ago just after she returned home. She continues to be an inspiration. It is just not the end of the world.
By comparison, a business associate my age is out of brain cancer remission. They harvested his bone marrow sometime in the last few days, and he is in for a really rough ride.
I am almost ashamed to say that his "big" problems are helping to cope with my "little" problems.
My nephew and I commuted to work together this AM. And, he had this sage advice for me, “look on the bright side, at least you are not trying to score a first date with this problem”. He has serious food allergies (and won’t see a doc). Sometimes he cannot make it through a whole meal before he takes off running. We had a good chuckle. He didn’t have any sympathy for me outside of the pending surgery itself. Basically, it was welcome to the club. We are very, very close, he and I. And his life is pretty good too.
So, with the blessing of God, and the support and understanding of my family and friends, and the regular adjustments to my perspective that come from them, mostly we are hanging in there. That doesn’t stop us from getting a little whacky, and sometimes frightened, but it sure helps, and so does this site.
This board has been so helpful. Part of what causes me stress is the common thread of having to go through a trial and error process to figure out what one can tolerate. I have always HATED surprises, and this is a going to be a big one.
I was talking with my wife tonight about how she felt. She feels good, I feel good. Mostly, we feel good. Sometimes we just get a little edgy, then, it is time to pray, and dig up more information about what is on our minds.
I have a very dear aunt that just had a mastectomy last week. She lives right here in town. She is quite happy to be home, albeit a little light. She has had a colostomy for 12 years now. We do many things together. We spoke a few days ago just after she returned home. She continues to be an inspiration. It is just not the end of the world.
By comparison, a business associate my age is out of brain cancer remission. They harvested his bone marrow sometime in the last few days, and he is in for a really rough ride.
I am almost ashamed to say that his "big" problems are helping to cope with my "little" problems.
My nephew and I commuted to work together this AM. And, he had this sage advice for me, “look on the bright side, at least you are not trying to score a first date with this problem”. He has serious food allergies (and won’t see a doc). Sometimes he cannot make it through a whole meal before he takes off running. We had a good chuckle. He didn’t have any sympathy for me outside of the pending surgery itself. Basically, it was welcome to the club. We are very, very close, he and I. And his life is pretty good too.
So, with the blessing of God, and the support and understanding of my family and friends, and the regular adjustments to my perspective that come from them, mostly we are hanging in there. That doesn’t stop us from getting a little whacky, and sometimes frightened, but it sure helps, and so does this site.
auntjudyg
04-20-2004, 10:25 AM
Part of what causes me stress is the common thread of having to go through a trial and error process to figure out what one can tolerate. I have always HATED surprises, and this is a going to be a big one.
Afraid I can't offer must comfort when it comes to testing. It drove me completely nuts, too. It can be amazingly difficult sometimes to pin down exactly what is causing a problem (for example, took me a LONG time to figure out vinegar was causing irritation because most of the time I eat it, it is just one of many ingredients in something) . . . plus I found things changed over time (mostly that I did not react to things six to twelve months out that I had soon after the operation).
She has had a colostomy for 12 years now.
It's amazing how we adapt. And so many people come out of it with such a great attitude. My brother-in-law, at 47, just had one because of colon cancer. So far, so good. (OT rant - that was 47, colon cancer, NO family history . . . gets those first colonoscopes as SOON as you can folks!!! Don't put it off!!! My b-i-l only had one by chance because they wanted a closer look at a persistent hemorrhoid.)
I am almost ashamed to say that his "big" problems are helping to cope with my "little" problems.
I hope that is not a reason to be ashamed, that's exactly what helped me through things. Your nephew's advise is something to live by. How do these young people get so wise?!?
Afraid I can't offer must comfort when it comes to testing. It drove me completely nuts, too. It can be amazingly difficult sometimes to pin down exactly what is causing a problem (for example, took me a LONG time to figure out vinegar was causing irritation because most of the time I eat it, it is just one of many ingredients in something) . . . plus I found things changed over time (mostly that I did not react to things six to twelve months out that I had soon after the operation).
She has had a colostomy for 12 years now.
It's amazing how we adapt. And so many people come out of it with such a great attitude. My brother-in-law, at 47, just had one because of colon cancer. So far, so good. (OT rant - that was 47, colon cancer, NO family history . . . gets those first colonoscopes as SOON as you can folks!!! Don't put it off!!! My b-i-l only had one by chance because they wanted a closer look at a persistent hemorrhoid.)
I am almost ashamed to say that his "big" problems are helping to cope with my "little" problems.
I hope that is not a reason to be ashamed, that's exactly what helped me through things. Your nephew's advise is something to live by. How do these young people get so wise?!?
b51kitty
04-20-2004, 05:55 PM
If Grains cause your problems.. then you don't eat bread? or what types or brands DO you eat? curious. I've been thinking I've got to eat alot of grains.. something "I" might want to consider too.
thanks for the info.
thanks for the info.
b51kitty
04-20-2004, 06:18 PM
I went back today for results of the small intestine barium tests. Dr. says those are ok. Now going Thursday for barium for large intestine. IF those are ok, then it will prob. end up with being IBS- Irritable Bowel Syndrome. I still do have a hernia that will need repair. He wants to check out the large first. Otherwise haven't had any flar up in weeks. I "was" eating 2 slices of what I thought was wheat bread every morning to work.. if you read the small writings, it was enriched wheat. Not good... now, have found a better one, whole wheat,, but trying to do cereals more in the mornings too. IIts a toss up kind of thing I think..I try to pay more attention to whats on labels and if what I like has 0 or 2 in fiber grams, I put it back and look for something with more fiber... Its going to be a life-long adventure.
Well, you keep writing.. and let us know how you are after the surgery. I'm sure you'll make out fine.
Well, you keep writing.. and let us know how you are after the surgery. I'm sure you'll make out fine.
resection
04-21-2004, 12:23 AM
Hello,
I am getting there. I am a 1/3 of the way through the pre-op no food program, and I am just a little hungry. Trying not to focus on it. Breathe in, breath out.
I really had a great day despite the clear liquid diet. Good prayers flowing in. Good things going at work. Good things going on in my marriage. Talked to the surgeon today, we are a go, and he is hoping for a full and “normal” recovery. Pretty much all of my affairs are in order. I am going to work half to three quarters of day tomorrow and punch out until I punch in, whenever that might be. If were not for the impending surgery, I would say that I am at the top of my game right now.
I just realized while typing this email that I could have gotten up early this morning and squeezed in one more meal. Ouch!!! - Too late now.
Note to self: 72 hours means 72 hours, not the next nearest night before 72 hours. Correct milestone, when I wake up tomorrow, I will only have 48 more to go.
Aunty, thanks for your comments. I popped out the board during the day and found them encouraging. Kitty, you too.
Good night. I put in a few more entries between now and when I leave for the hospital Friday morning. :wave:
I am getting there. I am a 1/3 of the way through the pre-op no food program, and I am just a little hungry. Trying not to focus on it. Breathe in, breath out.
I really had a great day despite the clear liquid diet. Good prayers flowing in. Good things going at work. Good things going on in my marriage. Talked to the surgeon today, we are a go, and he is hoping for a full and “normal” recovery. Pretty much all of my affairs are in order. I am going to work half to three quarters of day tomorrow and punch out until I punch in, whenever that might be. If were not for the impending surgery, I would say that I am at the top of my game right now.
I just realized while typing this email that I could have gotten up early this morning and squeezed in one more meal. Ouch!!! - Too late now.
Note to self: 72 hours means 72 hours, not the next nearest night before 72 hours. Correct milestone, when I wake up tomorrow, I will only have 48 more to go.
Aunty, thanks for your comments. I popped out the board during the day and found them encouraging. Kitty, you too.
Good night. I put in a few more entries between now and when I leave for the hospital Friday morning. :wave:
auntjudyg
04-21-2004, 10:17 AM
If Grains cause your problems.. then you don't eat bread? or what types or brands DO you eat? curious. I've been thinking I've got to eat alot of grains.. something "I" might want to consider too.
thanks for the info.
I don't eat bread very often. It was/is a bit of an adjustment. Of course, I do find myself in situations where a sandwich is served and I feel compelled to eat it. Fortunately, I can have a serving now and then with no problem; it's when I have a serving several days in a row that I have trouble.
I ought to have been more specific. Wheat seems to be the biggest problem. I can do oatmeal and rice and even a few rye crackers (Wasa or Ryvita or there is this brand from Finland or Sweden and I like best [don't know the name, but they are big round crackers]) more often. But too much whole grain anything is no good.
I think it is something about the bran. I don't have the same problem eating legumes regularly.
thanks for the info.
I don't eat bread very often. It was/is a bit of an adjustment. Of course, I do find myself in situations where a sandwich is served and I feel compelled to eat it. Fortunately, I can have a serving now and then with no problem; it's when I have a serving several days in a row that I have trouble.
I ought to have been more specific. Wheat seems to be the biggest problem. I can do oatmeal and rice and even a few rye crackers (Wasa or Ryvita or there is this brand from Finland or Sweden and I like best [don't know the name, but they are big round crackers]) more often. But too much whole grain anything is no good.
I think it is something about the bran. I don't have the same problem eating legumes regularly.
b51kitty
04-21-2004, 10:47 AM
Aunty- thanks for the info, always helpful and something to think about. You could always eat a sandwich in a large lettuce leaf or a tortilla roll.
Resection- don't worry about missing a meal.. just less to go out- (if you know what I mean). Sometimes less is better.
Have a good day.
Resection- don't worry about missing a meal.. just less to go out- (if you know what I mean). Sometimes less is better.
Have a good day.
snodove
04-21-2004, 05:21 PM
Hi, I have IBS C but lately have been having a really bad time with pain. It is in my lower left side where my IBS is but my IBS hasn't ever hurt like this. This all started in my upper flank on that side. I thought it was a farmilar kidney stone pain.
If you don't mind. Could you tell me what you pain feels like and does it get worse if you eat or don't eat. I would appreciate it. My doctor is out of town til Monday so am waiting to seeing him. I have had alot of pain on that left side. Have been writing down everything I eat and when it hurts. I do have IBS and take Zelnorm which has helped me so much. My pain is achy,spasms,sharp and sometimes the pain goes down my upper leg in the front. I hope you are doing ok. I am 45. Thank you so much. Polly
If you don't mind. Could you tell me what you pain feels like and does it get worse if you eat or don't eat. I would appreciate it. My doctor is out of town til Monday so am waiting to seeing him. I have had alot of pain on that left side. Have been writing down everything I eat and when it hurts. I do have IBS and take Zelnorm which has helped me so much. My pain is achy,spasms,sharp and sometimes the pain goes down my upper leg in the front. I hope you are doing ok. I am 45. Thank you so much. Polly
Solange1965
04-21-2004, 05:54 PM
Please do not mess around with this any longer. I survived a perforated diverticulitis and I use the word 'survived' because it was touch and go the first week post surgery due to a serious blood infection. I had been having lower left side pain for 3 months and for a year before that quite a bit of diarrhea and/or constipation. But those last 3 months were dreadful and I was taking an abdominal med to relax the 'spasm' my doctor prescribed for my so called nervous stomach!!
One day that lower left side pain became unbearable and included my left back as well with difficulty being able to breathe. I developed a fever and finally got to the e.r. No one diagnosed me properly for almost 10 hours and they sent me up for an exploratory as my b/p had dropped and I was in critical condition. I had of course by then experienced a perforation and the surgery took 5 hours.
I awoke with a colostomy and tubes in every opening you can think of and a hospital stay of 3 weeks. I had an opening from naval to the public bone and even that got infected later on. Those next few months were very difficult and required strong narcotics for the pain. After 3 months, I had the colostomy removed and had my colon reattached and another 12 days in the hospital.
Within 6 months of surgery, I developed an incisional hernia the size of a baseball....and had to have a hernia repair. Another week in the hospital. Guess what? Because of all the cutting and splicing, got yet another incisional hernia and had to have yet another repair, this time with a mesh screen inserted to hold everything together.
I am writing this very long post because I want you to get the surgery done, nevermind taking meds and changing foods to fix it. Your life could be in jeopardy.
Since my doctor did not do the appropriate diagnosis during those crucial 3 months of pain, not even a lower g.i. or x-ray of any kind....I sued him. I have been on permanent disability ever since and my days are painful from all of those surgeries. Please get it taken care of by surgery...and quickly...Solange
One day that lower left side pain became unbearable and included my left back as well with difficulty being able to breathe. I developed a fever and finally got to the e.r. No one diagnosed me properly for almost 10 hours and they sent me up for an exploratory as my b/p had dropped and I was in critical condition. I had of course by then experienced a perforation and the surgery took 5 hours.
I awoke with a colostomy and tubes in every opening you can think of and a hospital stay of 3 weeks. I had an opening from naval to the public bone and even that got infected later on. Those next few months were very difficult and required strong narcotics for the pain. After 3 months, I had the colostomy removed and had my colon reattached and another 12 days in the hospital.
Within 6 months of surgery, I developed an incisional hernia the size of a baseball....and had to have a hernia repair. Another week in the hospital. Guess what? Because of all the cutting and splicing, got yet another incisional hernia and had to have yet another repair, this time with a mesh screen inserted to hold everything together.
I am writing this very long post because I want you to get the surgery done, nevermind taking meds and changing foods to fix it. Your life could be in jeopardy.
Since my doctor did not do the appropriate diagnosis during those crucial 3 months of pain, not even a lower g.i. or x-ray of any kind....I sued him. I have been on permanent disability ever since and my days are painful from all of those surgeries. Please get it taken care of by surgery...and quickly...Solange
resection
04-21-2004, 05:56 PM
Before I tell you about the pain, let me just say, you can get very sick very quickly when you have a developing case of diverticulitis. If you are getting a sharp pain for a day or more, I would not wait until Monday. Or, if it is sharp enough to double you over go. Go see another doctor. Why wait? Almost any doctor can determine a probable cause without the cost and effort of a CT. Also, simple antibiotics can easily short circuit full blown diverticulitis and save you (maybe forever) a great deal of pain and suffering ... when delivered early in the cycle. Waiting significantly increases the expense human and financial.
The unconfirmed test is quite simple. Press into the abs with the fingers only of both hands side-by-side in kind of a circle pattern. The doctor should be able to determine if you have a guarded response, and whether she can palpitate you large intestine. Don’t do this on yourself. Pressing to hard at a minimum can cause a diver to leak waste into your body cavity, at worst, it may burst. Depending how early you are in the infection cycle, there may or may not be a real noticeable change in red blood count and temperature. However, if you are burning a hot temp and you have the knife pain in your gut, you really should go to the emergency room if it is after hours. The first signs of infection for me are generally a subtle change in my bowel habits. With your IBS, that might not give you a clue. Eventually, in a full blown infection, the inflammation can narrow or block the intestine preventing proper elimination and creating a very dangerous situation.
The first time I had was probably the worst pain. (1) I was a rookie. The pain was “new” and I did not know what to do. (2) It took forever to get to a doctor. I was on the dry side of Maui.
It was how I imagined someone with an appendicitis, only on the left side. For me, I was burning a temp in the 101 to 103 degree range. I was sweating. And every ten to twenty minutes, I would have to get up on my tippie-toee, and the pain would partially double me over. The rolling cramps would last for a minute or less then it would pass (seemed much longer). It got worse and worse and worse. I felt nauseous and like I had the urge for a BM but nothing in my belly was working.
The pain was pretty sharp. Bad enough to abort my Maui vacation. I think I got the infection during the long flight.
Since then, I have had four more bouts. None as painful, but I have scarring and thickening walls whatever that means. Also, in my case, I will never forget how bad it was. So, I have gotten to the doctor quickly since. Again, in my case, I can get very sick in only a couple of days. Even when I went into the hospital earlier this year, the pain was not as bad as the first time. However, the CT showed all kinds of nasty things happening to my belly that were not there the first time. Diverticulitis is a degenerative disease. Every time you have a bout, it can mess you up more and more. It is not to be ignored.
It is worth going to the doctor for a visit so your divers to turn into itis.
The unconfirmed test is quite simple. Press into the abs with the fingers only of both hands side-by-side in kind of a circle pattern. The doctor should be able to determine if you have a guarded response, and whether she can palpitate you large intestine. Don’t do this on yourself. Pressing to hard at a minimum can cause a diver to leak waste into your body cavity, at worst, it may burst. Depending how early you are in the infection cycle, there may or may not be a real noticeable change in red blood count and temperature. However, if you are burning a hot temp and you have the knife pain in your gut, you really should go to the emergency room if it is after hours. The first signs of infection for me are generally a subtle change in my bowel habits. With your IBS, that might not give you a clue. Eventually, in a full blown infection, the inflammation can narrow or block the intestine preventing proper elimination and creating a very dangerous situation.
The first time I had was probably the worst pain. (1) I was a rookie. The pain was “new” and I did not know what to do. (2) It took forever to get to a doctor. I was on the dry side of Maui.
It was how I imagined someone with an appendicitis, only on the left side. For me, I was burning a temp in the 101 to 103 degree range. I was sweating. And every ten to twenty minutes, I would have to get up on my tippie-toee, and the pain would partially double me over. The rolling cramps would last for a minute or less then it would pass (seemed much longer). It got worse and worse and worse. I felt nauseous and like I had the urge for a BM but nothing in my belly was working.
The pain was pretty sharp. Bad enough to abort my Maui vacation. I think I got the infection during the long flight.
Since then, I have had four more bouts. None as painful, but I have scarring and thickening walls whatever that means. Also, in my case, I will never forget how bad it was. So, I have gotten to the doctor quickly since. Again, in my case, I can get very sick in only a couple of days. Even when I went into the hospital earlier this year, the pain was not as bad as the first time. However, the CT showed all kinds of nasty things happening to my belly that were not there the first time. Diverticulitis is a degenerative disease. Every time you have a bout, it can mess you up more and more. It is not to be ignored.
It is worth going to the doctor for a visit so your divers to turn into itis.
resection
04-21-2004, 06:02 PM
Solange1965,
So sorry to hear about your long experience. Advice to anyone. Get multiple opinions on a Chronic anything. Docs are people and people make mistakes. If something is not resolving, and especially if it involves pain, temp, bleeding etc... Go see one or two or three docs until you have a consensus.
I cannot imagine the pain you went through to get all the way to perforation.
So sorry to hear about your long experience. Advice to anyone. Get multiple opinions on a Chronic anything. Docs are people and people make mistakes. If something is not resolving, and especially if it involves pain, temp, bleeding etc... Go see one or two or three docs until you have a consensus.
I cannot imagine the pain you went through to get all the way to perforation.
Solange1965
04-21-2004, 06:58 PM
Thank you...however during those final 3 months, there was no fever and no bleeding. Yes pain for sure but I still went to work most days. Since my job was very stressful, the doctor felt that I had IBS for about a year and had me on all kinds of meds, the last being Librax and also Levsin. I believe during those months had I been on an antibiotic that treated the divertic while it was in the infected stage, it would never have escalated to the perforation. Because he did not order the appropriate tests and I did not insist enough on seeing a g.i., the result was terrible.
Also I trusted this doctor and being told that I was a nervous person seemed to me that of course I would have a nervous stomach. I never even heard of diverticulitis. And as a p.s. to it all, I was told that any future abdominal surgeries would have to be done only in the case of some life threatening event. Needless to say after developing a massive fibroid that did not respond to meds to shrink it and was causing unbelievable pain and bleeding, I had to have a hysterectomy. You couldn't imagine what I went through to find a gyn who would do it with my history. He had to have a another surgeon there just to do the lyse(removal of alot of scar tissue) which was attached to my ovaries.
It was with some pleasure to see that original doctor have to compensate me for his stupidity, arrogance, condescending attitude and complete patient neglect, etc.....
Also I trusted this doctor and being told that I was a nervous person seemed to me that of course I would have a nervous stomach. I never even heard of diverticulitis. And as a p.s. to it all, I was told that any future abdominal surgeries would have to be done only in the case of some life threatening event. Needless to say after developing a massive fibroid that did not respond to meds to shrink it and was causing unbelievable pain and bleeding, I had to have a hysterectomy. You couldn't imagine what I went through to find a gyn who would do it with my history. He had to have a another surgeon there just to do the lyse(removal of alot of scar tissue) which was attached to my ovaries.
It was with some pleasure to see that original doctor have to compensate me for his stupidity, arrogance, condescending attitude and complete patient neglect, etc.....
snodove
04-21-2004, 09:54 PM
Hi, Thank you so much. I agree I need to do something. I had that Catscan of my kidneys and Badder and they said my spleen was ok. Not sure if it showed up the intestines. I need to find something and will as soon as I can. Polly
snodove
04-22-2004, 06:02 AM
Hi, You are have been through alot. I am so sorry. I am going to get this checked as soon as I can. I will call my Dr. Monday. I had my ovary out a few yrs ago. No one could tell me why I hurt. I kind of feel like you did there with your div. No getting help soon enough. I went to one GYN and could only talk to a nurse prac. Grrr and she said it was my IBS. I thought I don't think so.... I had waited three months to get in to even see a doc. there. So I went to another GYN and he said he would do a lap cuz it might be endo. Well, Thank goodness he did. He that on the exam he never felt what he found. Neither did my GP doctor but he did refer me to someone. He is good about that like if he isn't sure what is wrong he listens. So the new GYN found a large tumor on my left ovary that was behind my uterus. He said he was shocked. It wasn't cancer and he removed it. You know I was thinking the other day this pain I am having right now is similar to that but it is on the same side as before. Hope it isn't scar tissue but I am going to get this checked. I had been really putting it off and waiting and seeing but since the CT said it wasn't a kidney stones (I have 4) causing the problem. I need to find out what is going on. Thank you for sharing and thank you for helping me. Polly
auntjudyg
04-22-2004, 10:58 AM
snodove, Pain on the left side can be various things; and is a common place for pain. It is the "final stretch" for the intestines and there are a couple of twists and turns.
If they pain gets really bad, or if you start running any kind of fever, I wouldn't wait any longer for your doctor. Good luck! Let us know how it goes.
If they pain gets really bad, or if you start running any kind of fever, I wouldn't wait any longer for your doctor. Good luck! Let us know how it goes.
snodove
04-22-2004, 11:21 AM
Hi, Thank you. Will do. I haven't had a fever so far. Yes, it can be about anything and it could just be my IBS getting worse but hope not. Polly
b51kitty
04-22-2004, 07:00 PM
AuntJudyG, had colon resection Jan 03. Having some troubles last good 6 months. Went for small intest. test last week, that was ok; went for large intest. test today. Said I had more outpouchings. Will return to Dr. next Tues. I don't think this disease is determined by what you eat alone- but alot of genetics. I try to watch what I eat..Trying to figure out just what.. is really hard. Have you had problems such as this? I think I will request an appt with a dietician and take her list of all I eat and have her mark OFF what not to eat - in case of diet wrongdoings. I am hopeful that it can still be somewhat managed. If it continues, don't know what will happen, if colostomy or what. Do you know? If you have that (bag) can you STILL get outpouchings that make you ill?? the nausea and cramps?
thanks. Kitty
thanks. Kitty
auntjudyg
04-23-2004, 06:34 PM
I agree genetics does play a part. My grandmother had diverticulitis (though, not until her mid-50s, which really isn't that unusual anyway). But it ends up one of her uncles died of a bowel infection, and when I get around to looking into it, I bet others in the family had/have it. But nearly everyone in the US develops it in later life . . . and that doesn't happen in areas where fiber intake is higher.
I really changed the way I ate after my operation - plenty of water, fiber, yogurt. So as of about 18 months after the surgery, there were no new pouches (hope it keeps up).
Dieticians push a very conservative plan (at least the one in the hospital did, and I think to get certified they have pretty strict guidelines to preach). It is the no seeds, nuts and peels business and even my doctor finally admitted that there is really no evidence that they cause everyone problems.
I don't know how they treat recurrences. I think they would continue to do resections because you would want to avoid cutting out all the intestine, I would think. Best to talk with the doctor, though.
I really changed the way I ate after my operation - plenty of water, fiber, yogurt. So as of about 18 months after the surgery, there were no new pouches (hope it keeps up).
Dieticians push a very conservative plan (at least the one in the hospital did, and I think to get certified they have pretty strict guidelines to preach). It is the no seeds, nuts and peels business and even my doctor finally admitted that there is really no evidence that they cause everyone problems.
I don't know how they treat recurrences. I think they would continue to do resections because you would want to avoid cutting out all the intestine, I would think. Best to talk with the doctor, though.