anyone else having probs after having gall bladder out

About 5% of the people that have their gallbladder removed have diarrhea when eating some foods. Because their gallbladder does not control the bile and if the bile that is normally absorbed in the last part of the small intestine gets in the colon ---it causes diarrhea.

There is a medication --Questran that absorbs bile and fats that will reduce the diarrhea. Constipation is a side-effect of the medication for people that have gallbladders. It's used normally to reduce cholesterol.

Harry

Thank you for your response, are the symptons similar or could it be have ibs as well, could someone tell me what the symptons are ??????? fingers crossed, hopefully my doc might listen to me now. Thanks

Hi denbabes. Having suffered from IBS-D for 20+ years, and then with a worsening of the "D" after gall bladder surgery, hopefully I can provided advice for you. I had frequent bouts of diarrhea for many years due to IBS-D, but some formed stools as well. However, after gall bladder surgery in '97, my "D" worsened to daily after almost every meal or drinking liquids. Things seemed to level off to tolerable until GERD surgery in 2001, when all h*** broke loose.

Basically I had daily, explosive watery or soupy stools first thing in the a.m. after a cup of coffee, again at lunch or supper, and throughout the day. Eating seemed to trigger the need to have a BM, and it was always an urgent matter to find a bathroom. I often had accidents to my frustration and humiliation, and would have to call in sick to work or leave with the excuse of the "flu." The diarrhea was painless, but the urgency was most evident after eating or drinking. I found this board in 2001 after feeling almost suicidal because of the shame of fecal incontinence. I found out about Questran (powder) and Colestid (pill) on this site. I had already been taking increased fiber and calcium supplements to promote formed stools with no success. My doc had prescribed Bentyl for me as an antispasmodic, but my problem wasn't pain - it was uncontrolled BM's! I went back to my doc with internet info on bile salt diarrhea and people's testimonies about Colestid. He agreed to try it for one month, and if it didn't work, I was going to have to undergo colonoscopy to rule out IBD or Crohn's.

Thank the Lord - the Colestid was heaven-sent. I have been on it for a year, and have had only 3-4 fecal incontinent episodes total (versus everyday before) in that time. I have formed stools (1-3 a day) every day or every other. The urgency to go is still there due to my IBS, but I can get to a bathroom in time. I still take calcium supplements and increased fiber for my bowel health as well.

Some ways to tell if it's your GB removal causing problems - is this a change in bowel habits for you since GB removal? Chart when the diarrhea occurs - during or right after a meal? (up to one hour). Have you tried typical anti-diarrhea drugs like Immodium or antispasmodics like Bentyl that don't work? It didn't matter how much Immodium I took I would still have attacks of urgent uncontrollable diarrhea. Are the attacks fairly pain-free, and seem to occur as as act of the digestive process?

I can't tell you how much my life has improved since the onset of Colestid. Harry and I have corresponded for a quite a long time regarding my IBS, and he knows how much I swear by Colestid. I told one poster once that even I found out Colestid causes cancer (it doesn't), I would continue taking it - it gave me my life back. I can go to work, out socially, or to the mall and not have to be close to the bathroom at all times. I don't have to take extra changes of clothes with me anymore for "accidents." I was only about 40 years old when all this happened, so couldn't just call it old age. Colestid has been proven safe to take, and you will not need to take the high doses necessary for cholesterol reduction. I have normal cholesterol levels, and I take 2 Colestid each a.m. every day.

It is the wonder drug for me and I recommend anyone with GB related diarrhea to try it. Do some web searches on bile salt diarrhea, and see if the symptoms fit your problems.

I wish you well and keep us posted,
Katie G

I had my gallbladder out about 1 1/2 years ago, and it didn't solve my problems, and in fact, made some worse. I tend to have immediate explosive diarrhea - usually after 1st meal of the day, or eating fatty foods, or sometimes for no apparant reason at all. I have been diagnosed with GERD and IBS. Taking Prilosec, Cimetidine, Reglan and also a daily dose of Citracel. Too soon to know if these help.

NOTE TO KATIE G...Is Colestid a prescription, over-the-counter, or supplement? Where do you find it? Do you take it with other medications?

Hi all
Just to let u know just back from docs and they will not prescribe me questran as i asked, as they say it does not deal with what i have and does not deal with bile,i did remind them that i had gall bladder out but u know what they like they close down after you have stated symptons, so they have given me Mebeverine Hyrochloride, ummmm so not a happy bunny today, as pain real bad today, any suggestions.

Colestid is a Godsend!! Like KatieG, I have had the identical problem for many years. There was no way I could go out to dinner with friends, without being in agony (unfortunately, I had the pain as well), a cold sweat and RUNNING to find the closest washroom. I've had many 'accidents' as well....and even when it happens in the privacy of your own home, it's just horrible!
I had been put on the Questrin powder, but couldn't 'stomach' it so my Dr wrote me a prescription for Colestid. To this day, I could kiss her feet!!!

I take 4 pills each morning and have fairly normal bowel movements (compared to what they were like before, even the problems I still have are nothing compared to what they were!).
Denbabes, I hope your Dr will put you on the Colestid..it does wonders http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

Hi there to all again. Denbabes - I could kick your doctor - how do they know that Colestid/Questran won't help you? Find a good GI doc who understands the problems with bile salt diarrhea and is willing to attempt Colestid/Questran. Try bringing in internet articles about bile salt diarrhea too - that's how I got my doc to agree to prescribing it. Fortunately, he was very sympathetic about my incontinence, but still kept saying it was all IBS. When I brought in articles about bile salt diarrhea, and made him read them, he decided to try the Colestid. He was willing to give it a month to "work" and if it didn't I had to agree to a colonoscopy to rule out some form of inflammatory bowel disease. Needless to say, he is now a firm believer in Colestid after my situation (it took only 2 days to control my diarrhea); there's another doctor in the same office who says he prescribes it ALL the time for his patients who have diarrhea after GB removal. Some docs need a little assertiveness from their patients to get off their high horse and learn that as IBS patients we know what may work for us. Keep pushing for the right treatment - I wish you well.

Hi BrendaB - yes Colestid is a prescription-only drug and based on your description it sounds like you have bile salt diarrhea too and may do very well with cholestryamine resin (the chemical name for Colestid/Questran). Do some 'net research on bile salt diarrhea for additional information. Some docs don't believe in it - but I know it works for me and many others on this board. My own surgeon didn't believe in it, but I was able to convince my GP/family doc and I am no longer suicidal or desperate to find the nearest bathroom. The urgency to go is still there due to my IBS (along with occasional cramps/discomfort), but at least I know I can hold it now. Don't suffer for the 5 years I did until I found out what was happening to me. I thought I'd end up wearing maxi pads or adult diapers for the rest of my life before I found out about Colestid.

And aneika - I'm with you! Life is SO much better since the start of Colestid. I only take 2 pills every a.m., but that's enough for me to control things. I've only had diarrhea a few times since starting it a year ago - compared to several times every day before Colestid, I can live with the occasional loose stool! I now have 1-3 formed stools every or every other day and my bowels are no longer the focus of my daily existence.

I send good thoughts to all of you - keep me posted on your progress and denbabes - keep pushing for what you need. Print these board messages along with medical information you find to show to your docs so they know that you are only trying to find what works for you. Be a self-advocate - no one else can do it for you.

Good luck and keep me posted,
Katie G

Hi again BrendaB. Went back to read your post and realized I didn't answer all your questions. You will have to time your medications when taking Colestid since it can reduce the effectiveness of other meds. I too have IBS and GERD (had anti-reflux surgery in 2001, so no longer take Prilosec). However, I do take blood pressure meds, Elavil (at bedtime) and various vitamin/nutrition supplements. In timing your meds, you will need to take your other meds ONE HOUR BEFORE or FIVE HOURS AFTER you take Colestid so it doesn't interfere with the effectiveness of your meds.

For example, I take my blood pressure pill and acidophilus capsules in the a.m., then Colestid 45-60 minutes later, my multivitamin/calcium pill/vitamin E/green tea extract capsule at lunchtime, another calcium supplement at supper and Elavil at bedtime for my fibromyalgia.

Hope this helps,
Katie G

Hi
Thank you all for your replies it has been great, i am keeping fingers crossed, please can anyone tell me if my yellow coated tongue is related to my bowel probs or something else. thanks den

Hi
Good news saw my own gp today as he been on hols, he prescribed Questran and appt with gastro man so fingers crossed, it tastes so awful but hey if it works, maybe can start getting confidence back and get out soon. thanks den

Hi denbabes. So glad your GP was willing to prescribe for you. It was my GP who was willing to prescribe Colestid too, not my surgeon.

If the Questran is too awful (I know I don't do well with powders mixed in liquid), ask for Colestid instead. Although the pills are quite large, they are fairly easy to swallow. I take 2 every morning; I know some posters here are able to get control of their diarrhea with only 1 pill per day. I take mine in the morning and some take theirs at night. You may have to experiment with the time of day that works for you.

Good luck to you and keep us posted - I'm sure you'll be very pleased with the results of Questran.

Keeping my fingers crossed for you ~
Katie G

I don't understand why doctors are hesitant to prescribe Colstid, it sounds like the perfect and only solution. Are there side effects we should know about?

Hi there. The only side effect that I found in all my research was constipation with possible bowel obstruction. Constipation is NOT a problem for those of us with bile salt diarrhea. I would have welcomed constipation back when I didn't take Colestid.

I think docs are reluctant to prescribe it for bile salt diarrhea, because it was first prescribed for high cholesterol (in higher doses than needed for bowel control). Also, it should not be prescribed if you just have occasional, but controllable diarrhea or any problems with constipation. But if you have true bile salt diarrhea, you will know it. The urgency and explosiveness of the stool during or right after meals is the MO for this disorder.

Katie G

Thank you so much for responding, Katie. I am relatively new to this, I just had my gallbladder out a week ago, but I am having all of the symptoms of bile salt diarrhea. I have been trying to control it with my diet, (eating only dry steamed vegetables, bread, pasta and some fruit), but today I have had problems without any food and after simply having dry wheat toast. Did you have these symptoms immediately after your gallbladder surgery? Did it matter what you ate? I am wondering if it is too soon to start Colestid. I am supposed to go back to work next week, and I don't know how it will be possible without some help! Thanks again!

Hi again. Yes, I had the problems immediately after my GB was out until the time I found out about Colestid (5 years!!!!). At first I just reasoned that my IBS-D was worsening, and that over time, my bowels would return to "normal." Normal for my IBS-D meant controllable, soft stools with occasional diarrhea. Things did seem to improve until I had anti-reflux surgery in 2001; then my bile salt diarrhea really got out of control.

Give yourself about a month to see if your digestive tract settles down; GB surgery is pretty traumatic to your system. But if you still have problems then definitely see your doctor. And yes, it didn't matter what I ate or drank, I would have the urgency/explosiveness right after intake. You can try Immodium for awhile to see if that helps when you go back to work, but Immodium did nothing for me to control the bile salt diarrhea. I don't mean to be gross here, but what color are your stools? Bright yellow or light brown soupy or watery stools could also be indicative of bile salt diarrhea too.

Good luck to you,
Katie G

Katie, thank you again for your comments and suggestions. They are very useful, and it is so nice to know I am not alone. Fortunately, my GI doctor decided on his own to put me on Colestid, so we will see how it goes. I am starting on one 1g tablet per day. I still ate a completely fat free dinner tonight to be on the safe side, my stomach feels a little sour, but that is all right now. I had another question about IBS-D, when you mention your symptoms of this, it sounds like something I might have had for some time and did not know it. What is IBS-D and are you more prone to problems such as bile salt diarrhea if you have these types of conditions? I did not notice any "yellow" in my stools, either tan or black mainly. Thanks again for all your help. Since I am still early in the process, I am still praying for a recovery with a little time.

Hi again - there are lots of criteria for IBS-D. I say that I have IBS-D because diarrhea (loose, soupy or watery stools) was my primary consistency rather than formed. This has been a condition for me since my early 20's (I'm now 41) and was diagnosed years ago. There is an IBS board here which may be helpful to you - also internet searches should yield a lot of helpful info. Some people have IBS-C which is primarily constipation; some people have both "D" & "C"; others may complain of cramps, gas, and/or spasming pain with their IBS. Since IBS is not a disease, but a condition, it is determined by a process of elimination (no pun intended) after determining that a person doesn't have other more serious digestive disorders.

Thank goodness your doc is proactive and put you on Colestid - I noticed the difference within 2 days - and returned to eating/drinking whatever I wanted. I am concerned about your mention of black stools - black stools can sometimes be indicative of blood/bleeding in your digestive tract. Have you mentioned this to your doctor? I'm not trying to scare you, but just concerned.

Keep me posted,
Katie G

Katie-I will definately mention the black stools to my Dr, Thanks. ALso, did you notice consitpation right away on the Colestid or did things just appear normal? I have not had problems yet, just wondering what to expect. Thanks again!

Hey there again. Constipation has NEVER been a problem for me on Colestid. If anything, I was just excited to have formed stools within 2 days of starting it. The urgency and cramping are still present (because of my IBS), but at least I can get to the BR in time now. So now rather than right after I eat/drink something, I tend to have BMs at different times of the day - usually in the a.m. and then I may be done for the day or 1 in the a.m. and another one in the afternoon or evening. Eating/drinking does not seem to trigger the need to go as it used to.

Katie G

Thank you again, Katie. It sure is admirable of you to share your knowledge with us. You are doing a great service!

Katie, One more question..........you mentioned that while on Colestid you still have the cramping in the stomach. I definately feel tlike my stomach is turned up side down in knots and I even have the gurgling, but fortunately no D yet!! Is this all the time, or does it come and go. Is this something you have to learn to live with if you have this problem chronically?

Hi there - how are you doing? Any good with Colestid? As far as the cramping/gurgling, that's just part of my IBS, and yes sometimes the cramps are extremely painful. So far since starting the Colestid if I have really bad IBS cramps, I just try to be near the toilet, but my stools have been solid. In the past, cramps would send me running with the big "D."

I really think the cramping/gas/gurgling I get is just part of my IBS, and will be a chronic problem for me. The Colestid only helps control the consistency of my stool, but doesn't give me entire relief from other IBS symptoms (I've had IBS for 20+ years).

Hope this answers your questions. Please keep posting to let me know how you're doing.

Katie G

Had my gallbladder out last march( 2002) and I have that problem still...I have notcied a change in the smell and what not, also more liquid.

Glad to see i'm not the only one going through this.. I didn't know what was going on.

Hello all...just stumbled upon this site and forum through a google.com search. I had my gallbladder removed 3 years ago and have been on Colestid ever since. Today, I forgot to take it and I'm having a horrible day. I think I'll leave a packet or 2 at work in case I forget again. As long as I take 1/3 of the packet, which is about 5 grams, I can eat whatever I want and have virtually zero cramps or diarehha. I hope that others that have the same problem post-GB removal have access to a good Doctor, as mine, so they can live a normal lifestyle.
Joel

I had my gall bladder taken out in Feb. 2003 and have been had terrible diarrhea ever since. My doctor said it's because my body hasn't adjusted yet. And I've become quite frustrated with this whole thing. He put me on that Questran stuff but after one dose, I was not about to take anymore. I was sick to my stomach, crampy, bloated...almost like how I felt before my gall bladder was taken out! So now I'm just sucking it up and dealing with these icky symptoms.

I just happened to stumble across this board because I was for information about mucus in the stool. And I'm glad that I did. I've learned a lot of useful information tonight and I'm so so SO happy to see I'm not the only one that has these problems/symptoms! I mean, I'm sorry that there are others suffering like me, but it just makes me feel better that I'm not alone. I thought maybe I was going nuts! It's always right after I eat my first meal of the day do I have to RUN to the bathroom! 20 minutes...it's like clockwork! I'm now going to do some research on what I've read and give my GI doc a call in the morning!!!

But I want to thank Katie G for all that you've said. Thank you thank you thank you. I don't know if you'll read this, but thank you. Thank you to all.

...RubyBliss

Hi RubyBliss. Thank you for your kind words. This board was a blessing to me because I thought I was the only one suffering in shame related to uncontrollable diarrhea, and this is where I found others like me.

I've never tried the Questran because I don't like to have to drink powder mixed with liquids. I can't stand the Metamucil powder, and instead get my fiber from the wafers.

Maybe the pill form Colestid would be better for you. I still have some cramping/gassiness related to my IBS, but at least I can get to a bathroom in time.

Good luck to you and keep us posted,
Katie G

I talked to my GI doctor about the Colestid. He didn't have any samples of that, but instead gave me WelChol. I have yet to try it. I'm quite hesitant to try anything new during the week in fear of what havoc it may wreak on my body! I'm going to take my first dose tonight. I also asked my doctor about Metamucil and he said not even to go there, that it would do more harm than good. I was a bit surprised. So, let's hope this WelChol works. I have to admit, I don't always stick to a low-fat diet, so I'm sure that doesn't help matters any either. And I haven't been able to determine any type of trigger-food...it seems like it's everything! And working in a high-stress field doesn't help much either!

Again, thank you to all. As silly as this may sound, I'm very grateful to have stumbled across this board.

...RubyBliss

Hi Ruby. I've never heard of WelChol, so please let us know how it works for you. This may be another way to treat bile salt diarrhea that I'm sure many readers would be interested in. I'm surprised he didn't recommend fiber, but each to his own. It's worked great for me, along with the Colestid.

Good luck and keep us posted,
Katie G

Hello hello! I've been taking WelChol for about a week and a half now (two pills, twice a day, with meals) and it's AMAZING! At first I felt crampy from it, but I think that was just me getting used to it. And sometimes I feel a bit bloated, but I think that's just from what I eat. Although I do not have a BM everyday (but close to everyday), they are 99.9% solid and not constipating! It's like a miracle!

WelChol is a pill for high cholestrol. (Geez, from taking all these high cholestrol meds, at least I won't have to worry about it as I get older!) Anyway, I don't know how the other meds work, but WelChol is not absorbed into the bloodstream...it sits in the stomach and absorbs the fat and then gets passed. So I'm guessing that because it absorbs the fats, little bile is released, thus not causing diarrhea? All I know is that I don't have that 20 minute window before I have to run to the bathroom!

I'm not necessarily that thrilled about having to take these pills possibly for the rest of my life. But being able to eat again, keep it down, and not have it "running" out of me...I couldn't be happier!!! It's nice to be "normal" again! I highly recommend asking your doc about WelChol...it's so worth it!!!

On a different note...I do have a question. What is bile salt diarrhea? I tried looking it up online but found nothing. And I forgot to ask my GI doc about it.

Again, thanks to all.

RubyBliss

Hi RubyBliss - hallelujah for WelChol! This may be another treatment of choice for those with bile salt diarrhea. It sounds very similar to Colestid which is also not absorbed into the bloodstream, but sits in the stomach and "soaks" up the bile ejected by the liver. I found out about bile salt diarrhea just by typing in the words on a Google search. I found the website: www.gihealth.com (http://www.gihealth.com) very helpful too.

Good luck to you Ruby on your continued search for diarrhea control!

Katie G

My apologies...I said that the WelChol absorbed fat. I was incorrect. I meant to write it absorbs the bile released. I'm sorry for any confusion. But either way, it still works!

Ruby Bliss

Katie G.,

I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease when I was 12 and have been treated with medications ever since. When I was 20, my intestine perforated twice within the span of one week.

Since the emergency surgeries and extended recovery time, my Crohn's has been manageable. In the course of the last nine years I've had several short hospital stays, but nothing major.

About two months ago my Gastro decided that the Crohn's had reached a point where proactive surgery was necessary. The preliminary testing revealed gall stones, so the surgeon advised that my gall bladder be removed during the course of the bowel ressection.

That surgery was three weeks ago. I have been home for two weeks and am scared to leave the house. I've been having diarrhea 12 - 15 times a day with no end in sight. I own one company and am the GM of another. I've been fearing that my professional life -- not to mention social -- may be over. My wife, god bless her heart, has been more than sympathetic, but it hurts my soul to think that she will have to live with me in this state. I'm not religious, but I've been praying to whatever powers that be for help -- volunteering to give up EVERYTHING I have for these symptoms to just stop.

This morning, in tears, I found this web site. Your postings and the postings of others match my symptoms EXACTLY -- it's scary how similar they are. And, as much as it pains me to think of others going through this or having had to go through this, I am relieved because I am for the first time hopeful that there is a treatment for my symptoms.

After reading these postings, I left a message with my Gastro's answering service and she called me back within five minutes. She promised to call in a prescription for Colestid to the local pharmacy immediately. Whether it works or not (and I have every reason to believe that it will, as she too said that it could very possible end or drastically reduce my symptoms) I am thankful beyond words for your postings.

I've never felt as much anxiety and depression as I have over the course of the last two weeks -- I was even put on Xanax to control the anxiety attacks >> all instigated by these symptoms and this feeling of helplessness.

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!

------------------
-Matt

Matt,

You are very, very, very welcome! Like you - this board was a true lifesaver for me when I discovered it two years ago. If some wonderful soul here had not told me about Colestid after I tried everything else I could think of (increased fiber, calcium supplements, doses of Bentyl) I would still be the same diarrhea-prone suicidal mess I was a year and a half ago.

I only want to be able to help others like people on this site have helped me. We're all in this together and I pray for your healing from bile salt diarrhea. I really don't know anything about Crohn's disease, and hope that Colestid does help you with the diarrhea without interfering with your other digestive problem. Please be aware that one serious side effect of Colestid is constipation with bowel obstruction, and I would not want this to happen to you.

However, I've been on Colestid for the past year, and constipation has never been an issue for me.

Good luck and keep us posted,
Katie G

Matt...

My heart goes out to you for I feel your pain...we all do. We are in this together. Just when I was at my last straw and about to lose hope from dealing with these horrible horrible symptoms from having my gall bladder removed, I found this website...and I can't tell you how grateful I am because of it. Although this is only online, this is my support group. This is what I use to get through these difficult times. It is comforting to know I am not alone and that I need not go through this alone. It is comforting to know I can say what's on my mind on this site and there will always be a kind ear to listen.

I wish you the best of luck with the Colestid. I really hope it works for you. If that doesn't work, try the WelChol...it's been a LIFESAVER for me. (My doc only had samples of WelChol, no samples of Colestid, which is why I am on the WelChol.) But don't worry...there is hope!!! Just keep in mind you just had surgery a month or so ago! Your body is still adjusting to not having that small little organ anymore! Please don't lose hope...everything will be ok. We are here for you!

...RubyBliss

I think Healthboards has helped us more than we could say. I have been here for almost 4 years. Posting my problems and writing messages to others. Sometimes I am brought to tears with the suffering.

I am still amazed the lives that are really toughed in a meaningful way around in areas of the States and the world that I didn't know were on the web!!! I am also sure there are some people that we never hear about.

God Bless---Harry

Hi, I have many problems since my gallbladder was removed in May 2003. I am still having pain in the UR quad. My doctors have been running alot of tests to see why I have pain(sometimes I have to the hospital for pain mangerment-meds). I am loosing so much weight too--some because IBS-D but mainly because I can eat much at all. Since all of started have lost 40 lbs. We have tried many different meds to see what helps, when I see my GP I'm going to ask about Colestid. But I'm taking Hyoscyamine(3x's daily), Levsin(when needed up to 8 a day), Trimethobenzamide(for nausea), pain meds(if needed), Caltrate 600(read that helps with D), FiberCon(2 daily for fiber). I was taking more but I dont want to be on alot of meds--so we cut them off.
So I really need help with the pain--I haven't been to work in 5 months because of all of this. Any ideas will be helpfull!!!!!!!!!!

Hi there urgcareassistant, and welcome to the boards! I can't really provide any assistance with the residual pain you're suffering, so I hope your docs can find relief for you. However, as you've no doubt read my posts, you see I did have signficant problems with my IBS-D worsening considerably after GB surgery. I'm a firm believer in Colestid - it has been my lifesaver as far as controlling my diarrhea.

I also take fiber and calcium supplements. I would recommend to you to stop taking the Fibercon since this is a synthetic form of fiber and switch to a more "natural" (psyillium husk) fiber like Metamucil. I really like the Metamucil wafers - I think they taste good. I hate the powder stuff mixed with liquids, and didn't want to have to take like 10-15 capsules of the Metamucil pills every day, so 1-2 packages of wafers each day add 6-12 grams of much needed fiber. Just be sure to drink plenty of fluids with them. Also, try adding acidophilus capsules to your day too (they can be found at drugstores, health stores, Walmart, etc), because these add the friendly gut bacteria to your system that it needs to function properly. With all the weight you've lost, and the diarrhea, your intestinal flora is probably really out of whack.

Good luck and keep us posted on your progress,
Katie G

Just found this forum, and I also had my gall bladder removed about 1 1/2 years ago. However, most times I am "fine", and don't experience the yellow loose bowels and the dull pain in my right side. There doesn't seem to be a "food trigger", but there is a stress trigger. When I find myself incredibly stressed (family/marital problems) it begins to happen. Has anyone else found this to be their problem? And if so, any suggestions?

~stac

Hey all...

It's been awhile since I've posted. But I have to say that I've been taking WelChol daily and it's been a miracle!!! :bouncing: I'm literally jumping for joy over this medicine! I've had solid stools, been eating virtually anything without worry! I'm still a bit hesitant towards foods that made me sick in the past, but I slowly try them all...again. And I still panic a little when I hear a grumble/gurgle in my stomach.

Life has been good!!!

Thanks to all and take care!

...RubyBliss

Hi Ruby Bliss! I am SO happy for you and the success with WelChol! Hallelujah! Keep us posted!

Katie G :wave:

Hi Folks

Hope u all feeling well, i just got a question for you, have any of u felt so bad that u actually think about having a colostomy, life is so grim now. Let me know your thoughts.

denxxxxxxxx :confused:

Hi Folks

Hope u all feeling well, i just got a question for you, have any of u felt so bad that u actually think about having a colostomy, life is so grim now. Let me know your thoughts.

denxxxxxxxx :confused:


:angel: Hi denbabes - if you read any of my other posts about bile salt diarrhea, you'll know that I was at the point of contemplating suicide by the time I found hope on these boards - and I am truly serious about this. For 5 years (!!!!) I went with chronic severe diarrhea, and no one to tell me this could be a way of life after gall bladder surgery. Although I felt tons better after the GB was out, I sure did not want to have to live near a bathroom or avoid social situations out of embarrassment.

I was at the point of going to my doctor and asking him to justify disability so I could still financially help support my family. I was in tears all the time, wearing maxi pads every day (which did not always help control the leakage!), and was basically at the end of my rope. The Colestid gave me my life back. You may have to adjust dosages up or down depending on what may work for you. If bile acid sequestrants don't work for you, I'm not sure what to tell you to try.

I'll keep you in my thoughts/prayers.

Katie G

Hi Katie

Thanks for your reply, yes it does seem pointless some times, i think the things most peeps forget (well it is for me) the mental affects it has had on me. Well i have become a hermit now so afraid of going out the front door in case i have an accident and the feeling all the time of my bowels wanting to explode, i think the feeling is the worst part of it, the accidents you can clean out etc, but you have not control over the feelings. I have been classed as disabled as i cannot get a job. Maybe i am not a strong person and wish i could be like others and just get on with it, umm sounds like i just feeling sorry for myself, maybe i am, but after 12 years like it, you get to a point where everything u and your family do is controlled by your bowels. So the thought of having the op does seem a better option knowing that you cant have any accidents and you dont have to find out if there is a toilet wherever you go. The thought of having a life again maybe a different type of one is better than nothing.

Thanks again for response
Denxxxxxxxxxx

Same here BrendaB,after having gallbladder removed have had excess acid,indigestion and reflux.IBS too.But nothing compared to the agony i suffered with the gallbladder pain.Just wish my stomach was normal :(

Hi. I have just found this health board. I'm scheduled for gallbladder removal surgery Wed 9-29. I've been having gallbladder symptoms for years w/o realizing it. Always thought it was gas or food poisoning or stress. 2 years ago I had an attack so bad with my husband's loving nagging I went to my family doctor (an internist). After xray, ultrasound, hida scan, ct scan, no stones were found and the gallbladder was considered to be functioning. Had an endoscopy (eroded esophagus w/Barrets) and colonoscopy (2 benign polyps removed). Now I have annual endoscopies and set up to have colonoscopies every 2 to 5 years. My Gastro Dr. sent me to a surgeon. We discussed gallbladder removal but did not get a definitive feeling that the removal was essential. The episodes had subsided and occurred occasionally. BTW, I've had a total hysterectomy (1997) and I have a genetic cholesterol problem. I have an issue with high triglycerides discovered in 1998. (triglycerides were as high as 835, with medication and diet at one point had the tri's down to 199, however with the last test in July, they are back up to 443). During the year of 1998 I changed my diet (somewhat similar to the Atkins diet but not exact, low fat, low sugar, low cholesterol, low carb) and lost 40 lbs (was 50 lbs overweight). So I was at a very ideal weight. Stayed at this weight for until the next severe gallbladder attack in Aug 2000. After going through the above tests, I was supposedly eating the way one should. However with all the nausea, I began eating triscuits, pretzles and toast. I have gradually added 30 lbs back over these past two years. Everytime I would attempt to stay on my diet (to help w/triglycerides) it seemed to make the gallbladder symptoms worse. What surprises me from reading all the previous discussions, is that I have been experiencing soooo many of the problems many have mentioned that occur AFTER surgery. I recently had another severe attack the weekend of Fathers day, which sent me back to the doctor. After this episode, I have had increased issues with the diarrhea and blow out diarrhea. I am bloated all the time and have nausea everyday. Daily I have pain in the right upper chest, sometimes dull and sometime sharp. Went through xray, ultrasound and hidascan.........no stones, hidascan normal. Gastro Dr. referred me again to the surgeon. This time we all were convinced the gallbladder should be removed. One of my concerns that I did express was if my issues are not gallbladder related, what could they be?? Lately, I have been feeling so unwell, I can't wait for the surgery. I'm glad to have found this site. At least now if I end up in diarrhea land, I'll have a clue how to resolve the issues. I'm also curious to learn if my high triglycerides could have any relativity to my gallbladder problems. Do we know how often people who have gallbladder surgery end up with the bile salt diarrhea? (PS I'm 52 and have a rather stressful management job). Has anyone ever experienced weight gain.......although I'm not hungry I'll eat crackers or pretzels in a vain attempt to ease nausea. Otherwise I'm eating my low carb, low fat, low sugar and low cholesterol diet. I'm still having 10 lb swings. Thanks for listening.

Hi there - your GB symptoms sound very much like mine did before it was removed. I have posted numerous times about bile salt diarrhea and am one of the supposedly 5-10% of patients who suffer this condition after GB removal. So in other words, 90+% usually have no ill effects from GB surgery.

I already had IBS-D prior to GB surgery - it just intensified after surgery for my gall bladder (1997) and then Nissan fundoplication in 2001. But now it's under great control with Colestid. I don't plan to ever stop taking it.

Good luck to you - my hida scans and ultrasounds were considered "normal" too - when the surgeon actually got inside me, he discovered my GB was inflamed and covered in scar tissue - he told my husband he didn't know how it was still functioning.

Keep us posted,
Katie G

Dear KatieG,
You are an angel.

Hi ML - thanks for your kind words. These boards are wonderful - it's the only way I found out about bile salt diarrhea in the first place and could then discuss it with my doctor. Fortunately, he's caring enough to listen to me without letting his ego get in the way, and willing to try my suggestions. I was almost suicidal by the time I found this board and learned about Colestid (pill) and Questran (powder). I've been on it for about 2 years now and swear by it.

I can't remember who my angel was, but I'm eternally grateful for the poster who saved my life and helped me get my bowels under control with their wisdom. And you're right - Harry is another angel on these boards, and he has been extremely kind and supportive of me.

So if I can help others like I was helped, that's what matters. We're all in this together.

God Bless,
Katie G :angel:

Katie G. I have read many of your comments on this board. I've been reading anything to do with the Gallbladder surgery etc. I thank you so very much also. So many people, I'm sure trying to make me feel reassured, have made comments such as: Oh gallbladder removal is so routine, you've got nothing to worry about. You'll be up and around in 3 days. The surgery is so simple....etc. However, the anxiety of having to have surgery, is real. You and others on this board help with the handling of the anxiety. I remain very positive that all will go well. I look so forward to having this constant unwell condition to be gone. As the days get closer to surgery, if I did not know better, I'd think this gallbladder of mine knows it's about to be eliminated and is causing more fits as a result. Thanks for being there for me and others. You have obviously resolved your issues but still you check the messages on this board and provide support to so many. I'll be sure to post how well my surgery goes. (btw I'm thimbleina) :)

anyone else having probs after having gall bladder out
Hello,, my first time here,,, someone please reply to me and give me advice if you have this also,,,,Hello. Oh yes I am. I had mine taken out 2 months after my baby was born. about 2.5 months ago. I was having bad pains in my right side under breast and my back same area. It really hurt to breast feed. I didn't have any pain meds durning preg. just so I could breast feed right afterwards. But was put on pain meds while still in the hospital, my baby was falling asleep at my breast while feeding. Needless to say I wasn't able to breast feed after all. I had problems for years but didn't know my Gallbladder was so bad. Anyway,, back to answering the question, After I eat, (not ever meal though) I get really, really paid pain, (Sharp Pains) and If I waited to long I could easily have an accident right where I am, and it wouldn;t be a pretty sight, It comes out fast, and painful. some times I think I am finished, and I have to return right back to the toilet, some times this happens twice a day. I am also still having pains in under my breast and in my back, this has just started,,, So I went from sometimes not having a bm in over a week, to going sometimes 2-3 times a day. And I have gained weight also,,,, has anyone else,,,,

Hi thimbleina. Thank you too for your kind words. I'm keeping you in my thoughts/prayers that surgery will be a breeze for you. I can honestly say, that even with bile salt diarrhea as my forever post-op problem, I would still have my GB out. I was so sick from the pain/nausea, diarrhea, etc. that I was begging the doctor to take it out.

The GB pain, nausea, discomfort was gone after surgery. I don't miss the GB a bit - I had already had IBS-D prior to surgery, and even though the bile salt diarrhea kicked in and made my IBS-D worse, with medication I'm fine now. Only occasional episodes of the big "D" which I can live with - better than multiple times a day having to run to the bathroom.

I hope that you are the 90+% that have no surgical or post-op problems, but I'm here for you if you need further advice.

When is your surgery scheduled for?

Katie G