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I am new to the forum. I had a subtotal colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis in 2005 for colon cancer. I originally started having diarrhea which transitioned to soft mud like stools and now small stools about the size of my finger. Almost like my small bowel turned into a microcolon. Now I seem more constipated than I ever have before.

I know the majority of people here have j pouches but curious if anyone has noted similar changes or adaptations in their stool consistency with time.

Also, I was recently hospitalized a few months ago with small bowel obstruction which seemed to slowly resolve. I am still very anxious about advancing diet. I am still on a fairly low fesidue diet of breads, fish, mashed potatoes, yogurt, etc. Initially after my surgery, I could eat anything I wanted without problems and now it seems I really have to eat slow and really chew my food and minimize dietary residue.

Not sure if the worsening constipation is related to the adhesions, diet, or maybe a stricture at the anastomosis? Plan on following up with my surgeon.

Anyone else had similar experiences?
Original Post
It seems so strange to experience constipation after years of the opposite! I believe it is all part of our new parts learning to adapt. There is so much trial and error in learning to work with our new plumbing. For me, eating an apple takes care of the "constipation" issue. Simple fix, for me anyway! Hang in there. It does get better. If not, don't give up. There are answers out there but they are not always obvious.

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