Question:
What can be causing this week long problem?

I am 7 months post-op and have not had this problem until now. I have had diarrhea for 1 week. It was very severe/debilitating for 2 days. I missed work and couldn't even sleep because of it. I took many immodiums with no relief.It has gotten a little better but I still have cramping and several bouts where I need the restroom right away. I will run to the bathroom feeling an intense need to "go" and sit there passing gas for a little bit until the diarrhea comes. It is very irritating. My hind end is nearly raw and my life is becoming a bummer. I don't feel sick and my appetite is the same. My doctor just says to take a fiber supplement. It worries me because it I haven't had this problem before since surgery. My diet has not changed either and no new medications. Please help. Could this be a blockage?    — [Anonymous] (posted on July 29, 2001)

July 29, 2001
Hi, I don't know if I can answer your question, but, I don't think it is a blockage. I think your body may still be adjusting. I'm sure it is totally healed by now, but maybe it doesn't work like it used to. It does stink when your bum hurts. All I can say is Vaseline. It will help soothe and protect the skin. I think I would try lots of water since you are losing alot and maybe try a few days of liquid diet. I know it sucks, but maybe your system needs a break. Maybe even your dietitian will have a suggestion. I don't think I would let it go for more than another week. Hang in there.
   — Carla C.

July 29, 2001
You didn't say what you are eating/drinking. I was on clear liquids for 4 weeks, and could NOT tolerate the clear broth. Figure it. All I know is one ounce, I was was going before I could even get my feet moving! The other thing is that many of us become lactose intolerant, so if you are doing milk products or Ensure/Boost type products, that can give us hideous D, gas, cramping. If you doing things like baby food or applesauce or yogurts, those may also be too high in sugars for you, like the milks. The list of culprits usually includes, milk (inc skim--it's the lactose-SUGAR), sugars, even natural & fats.
   — vitalady