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Hi! I am new to this wonderful forum... this is my first time posting! I am sure this topic has been addressed endlessly, but I am hoping for some advice...

I am 35 years old and have been living with UC for about 5 years. After years of failed attempts to control my UC with medicine and diet changes, I had my entire colon removed and currently have an ileostomy. I am a little over 3 months post op. My reversal surgery is being scheduled for the end of July/beginning of August of this year. Of course like numerous other people, my ileostomy journey has had its challenges. I have had great bouts of dehydration, pain, depression, severe fatigue and significant weight loss (you know...the fun stuff!).

After reading/researching I have found what I'm hoping are helpful tips for the reversal surgery...
-Stock up on desitin, gas reliever, immodium, soft wipes, diapers.
-Possibly find an attachable bidet for our toilet.
-Follow a "BRAT" diet, keeping in mind that the J-pouch is small to begin with and will eventually stretch more over time.
-Uncontrollable BM's that will eventually lessen over time
...Oh, and of course to expect loads of pain!

I felt very unprepared going into and coming out of my first surgery, so am really trying to soak in as much info as I can for the reversal.
I would love to hear any advice, expectations and/or personal stories. I am very grateful for any insight, as I am hoping this helps ease some of my worry/anxiety with my journey ahead! Thank you!

-Lila

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Buy calmoseptine and a travel bidet,don't wait for butt burn to start.peppermint tea to clear blockages ,walking ,burgers are good food,hair dryer to dry bum.and remember it gets better ,the first few months get better but it's so slowly that you only notice when you look back .be patient.i put sudocreme on every morning that helps.vitamin c ,probiotics and protein help in recovery.electrolytes.

Last edited by Chook2

I give this advice to everyone so here it is. After your takedown don't freak out if you have issues. You may be constipated, or have diarrhea, or blood, or gas pains, or any number of symptoms. This is normal. It will take months for your body to adjust and it will take months for you to figure out what works and doesn't work for you.

Lila, you’ve gotten some great advice, and there is a lot of info out there. I am a fellow over thinker, so I get it. I believe it is mostly about wanting to retain as much control as you can, especially when we have so little of it. I always try to hope for the best but prepare for the worst.

It is super important to stay hydrated. Drink enough fluids to keep your urine dilute. What fluids you drink (or eat in your food) does not matter much. It all counts. At least early on, it is recommended to drink little to none with your meals, unless you need it to help swallow. This is particularly true if you are having trouble maintaining your weight. Until you adapt more, less fluids with your meal will help slow transit so you can digest better. Drink up between meals.

I would not expect loads of pain. That is not typical or acceptable. It is typical to have frequent loose stools at first. Take bowel slowers if you need to. Fiber supplements too to add bulk and reduce anal irritation.

Lastly, don’t freak out about weird stuff. Usually if you give it a few days things will right themselves. But, if you are truly worried, call your doctor. They’ve heard it all before. Then you can sleep.

And, good luck on your take down!

Jan

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