Question:
Has anyone had colitis pre-surgery and if so, how was it post-surgery?

   — JoAnn A. (posted on November 22, 2002)

November 21, 2002
I have ulcerative colitis. I had Lap RNY 10 weeks ago and have lost 58 pounds!! After surgery, my stools were loose and frequent with great urgency. In fact I often wondered if I made the right decision those first 4 weeks. I kept in communication with my surgeon and did take some Immodium to slow things up, but this even wasn't much help. Slowly things started correcting themselves and as I ate more solids things improved as well. Now after 10 weeks I don't always have a bowel movement every day and sometimes (becoming more often) they are even formed and not loose. I do not have the frequency or severe urgency any more. I am looking forward to being 6 months to 1 year post-op as I believe that this will continue to improve and I may even be better than I was pre-op!! It is important to talk about this thoroughly with your surgeon. Best Wishes!
   — Roberta S.

November 22, 2002
Yes, I had ulcerated colitis since age 14, then was told I have IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). And yes I keep going back and forth between diarreha to a saof somewhat formed stool. I too thought this would be the cure all, but I was wrong. Right after surgery I had lood stools b/c of all the liquids..some time later when I was able to eat real food it got more formed. At 5 months out I am taking an RX called imotal (imnodium by rx) and the OTC inmodium works better. So I don't know if in time if it will change again or not. At this point I'am alittle peeved off b/c I was told it would help if not cure the problem. And it hasn't !! Everyone is diffrent. Good luck to you.
   — sandy W.

November 22, 2002
Just a quick additional note. My surgeon did not tell me that my WLS would improve my colitis condition. In fact he very much informed me that loose stools are common after this surgery. I am so pleased about the improvements I have made in the last month that I myself am hopeful that things will continue to improve. My husband claims that I am not as bad as before surgery (he is the one to find bathroom stops for me on drives LOL!). Again, talk through this thoroughly with your surgeon and go in well informed.
   — Roberta S.