Question:
Can't stop loose bowels

I am almost 4 months post op. I have only dumped once since surgery and now all of a sudden I have had diareah for 3 days solid. I am not throwing up at all but my bowels run like water about 10 times a day. Nurse said it is not a stricture because I can eat and drink and not throw up and all I have been eating lately is crackers and water, lots of water so that I won't get dehydrated. Has anyone else had this problem this far out and what did you do? I can't sleep or work. I have taken a whole bottle of immodium and nothing. How long can this go on?    — Kimberly H. (posted on February 26, 2003)

February 26, 2003
Kimberly, I have this problem when I eat excessive amounts of fat and/or simple carbs (sugar, flour, pasta, rice, etc.). I ended up having severe diarrhea for about 2 weeks straight--exactly like what you're experiencing. The one thing that stopped it and has helped firm up my bowels is Psyllium Husks. It is fiber, used mostly for constipation, but it also helps diarrhea. It will add bulk to your stools and soak up the fluid in your intestines. You can get it at any place that sells nutritional supplements. It comes in a canister and you only need to use a teaspoon a couple times a day. It is tasteless, so it can be added to soups, oatmeal, juice, water, whatever you want to put it in. It really works! It was the only thing that worked for me, and I, too, tried everything else--including the Immodium, which never helped a bit. I am currently using "Natural Choices" Psyllum Whole Husks. It comes in a 12 oz. can which I bought at my local Fred Meyer grocery store.
   — artistmama

February 26, 2003
Thanks Brenda, I am headed to GNC right now.
   — Kimberly H.

February 26, 2003
It could just be a virus and they have to run there course stopping them with Immodium and other medicines can do more harm than good. I wouldn't let it go past a week though. Not sure what all you can tolerate after surgery but you need more than water to compensate for all the minerals that you are fulshing out espsecially since you don't absorb them like a person who hasn't had this surgery will.Pedialyte might be something to try.
   — S C.

March 3, 2003
I had my surgery 2 and a half years ago and I still have cronic diarrhea. I take Questrian Powder for it which was perscribed by my Dr. If i dont take it nightly, i have no control of my bowels at all. Good Luck with yours
   — Carol M.