I've been reading all the posts I can find on here about the subtotal colectomy. I appreciate all the information everyone has contributed. It has helped me better understand what is all involved.
I haven't read any posts that regret having the surgery done, so that is encouraging. I don't think anyone that hasn't had this problem can truly understand the misery involved in living this way.
I'm still learning my way around the forums. I read some people had problems with dry skin and losing some hair after the surgery. Is that from nutrition issues or maybe dehydration? Is it a long term problem? Is dehydration after surgery worse than using all the laxatives? I've had a problem with dry skin especially after the phosphosoda.
Thanks for all the information.
Are you having the surgery for colonic inertia?
The people that tend to lose hair are those that had the disease for ulcerative colitis. We are a group that have generally been very ill for some time before we opted for surgery. The dry skin, hair loss, and other problems are a result of both poorly absorbed nutrients over a period of time prior to surgery, and the anesthesia (dry skin). Dehydration can be a temporary condition but most rebound quite well. Most of the time I drink one cup of coffee per day and one glass of water. That's all I need. My fluid intake increases substantially when I am exercising heavily. That isn't due to my surgery, I was that way previously.
Sue
dx UC in 1991, was stable until 1998
1998 started prednisone, asacol, pentasa, nortriptylene, ativan, 6MP, rowasa enemas and suppositories, hydrocortisone enemas, tried the SCD diet, being a vegetarian, omega 3s, flax, pranic healing, yoga, acupuncture, probiotics
2000 lost all my B-12 stores and became anemic
2001 opted for j-pouch surgery- now living life med-free
I lost my hair prior to surgery. Yea, about 15 years prior (lol)! I've had a bout with dry skin this winter and I'm wishful that it will clear up with the warming weather. All in all, I'd trade a few old hairs and some dead skin cells any day to have my plumbing hooked back up. I've never looked back and have no regrets! Best of wishes for you.
Frank
Thanks. I am having the surgery for Colon Inertia. I am so greatful that I found this forum. It is encouraging that no one seems to regret having it done. I am starting to look forward to some relief!
Annette
I had a lot of hair fall out, but not to the extent that it really showed. But, when I washed my hair, my hands would be covered with hair that fell out. I was told it was because of medications and anesthetics (sp). Within a few months after surgery, my hair stopped falling out and it's all grown back now. My ileostomy was the best thing I ever did for myself, by the way!
Sherrine
annette,
let me know how things go. i may be going that route in a few months here if things dont turn around for me or my wits give out first. ugh.
bryan
Can anyone help me i am due to have a sub total colectomy on may 19th i have had an illeostomy now for 4 years and due to m.s. the messages aren't getting to my stomach i have lots of bouts of pain and twisting hopefully after the op that should be a thing of the past. Could anyone help me in what to ex[pect striaght after the op how will i feel what are the down sides to watch out for.