colon cancer post-op constipation
| Discussion in 'All Categories' started by David Levy - May 10th, 2011 3:16 am. | |
David Levy
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I have had post-op constipation since 7/09 following a successful laparoscopic resection of the approximately 4" of the sigmoid section of my colon. The cancer was grade 3. This constipation has been treated regularly since this surgery by taking one bisacodyl tablet and one other powder laxative daily and for the last month by taking one bisacodyl tablet and two tablespoons of milk of magnesia daily. But my bowel movements since the surgery have been small, painful and have occurred approximately every three to four days usually only after I have taken two bisacodyl tablets and another usual laxative that day This has resulted generally in two hours of continuous small bowel movements and then one or two liquid bowel movements. Only during approximately eight to 10 weeks since this surgery have I had bowel movements once every day or two, but those bowel movements were also poor and small and often incomplete. This continuous constipation causes me to wake-up from six to 10 times a night to try to have a bowel movement without straining too much, but usually results in only frequent urinating a little. I have started passing gas more frequently since starting the daily milk of magnesia, but I have not had better bowel movements. My surgeon has commented that primary difficulty with restoring my normal daily bowel movements is primarily due the location in my colon where the cancer and muscles were removed and the titanium was inserted. I am 62, I have lived in Bangkok for 16 years (where it is very hot), was approximately 22 lbs. heavier before the surgery than I am now (73 kg.), played two rounds of golf a week then and try to play at least one round now, continue to drink 6 oz. of vodka four nights a week (which I have actually done for over 20 years). My diet was poor, but has actually been improved by me since the surgery. I eat one yogurt, usually one banana, some pasta, potatoes, whole wheat bread or other good starch, not to much cheese, virtually no beef, try to drink at least one to two liters of water and one glass of milk each day, and I've stopped eating a lot of spicy Thai food. I can still try to improve my diet, but frankly, I'm old and a bit lazy with that. I would really appreciate getting any advice about how to improve by bowel movements, in particular my laxative(s) usage, and how to improve my sleep and slowly improve my strength. Thank you. DRL |
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re: colon cancer post-op constipation
by Dr Sadhana -
May 10th, 2011
9:57 am
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Dr Sadhana
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Dear David Levy Thanks for your question. We can understand the problem you are facing. But you should be happy because you are one of the few happy person which can enjoy the cancer free life after successful surgery. Constipation is definitely a prevalent problem after distal colon surgery. Most patients can be treated with mild measures for example just dietary changes with fibrous diet and laxatives. However, a significant group of patients has severe constipation and require more aggressive treatments, and sometime surgery again which can be described as bowel management. Most of these patients have mild constipation, which is associated with a wide spectrum of severity. A little number of these post operative patients have very severe bowel dysmotility and overlap using the number of patients thought to have intestinal pseudo-obstruction. Postoperative Medical treatment with enemas, laxatives, and purgative medicines has traditionally been used in these patients with varying success. These remedies are often used without a specific rationale in an indiscriminate manner and frequently reflect the lack of understanding of the main difference between patients with overflow pseudoincontinence and those with real fecal incontinence. Bowel management for constipation by having an organized protocol that is implemented with a thoughtful team of physicians and nurses can have a dramatic effect. After reading your routine and you play Golf and seeing the food which you take I think that much constipation you should try to manage yourself by taking laxative SOS. With regards Sadhana |
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re: colon cancer post-op constipation
by sanchez douris -
Apr 3rd, 2012
2:22 pm
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sanchez douris
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Dear sir: for your constipation after colon cancer surgery try to drink prune juice three times a day. Stay away from laxatives they will harm your intestines. Spring water plus prune juice. good luck. I am 67 years old with the same problem. |
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re: colon cancer post-op constipation
by Samip Gurung -
Jul 1st, 2020
5:44 pm
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Samip Gurung
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Dear Doctor What is the risk factor of Colon cancer??? |
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re: colon cancer post-op constipation
by Dr Rahul Pandey -
Jul 1st, 2020
5:47 pm
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Dr Rahul Pandey
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Dear Samip The risk factor of colon cancer are Being overweight or obese. ... Physical inactivity Smoking Heavy alcohol use Being older history of colorectal polyp history of inflammatory bowel disease |