Need some board wisdom

Hey folks, so far only slight leakage and no pad needed since left the docs office. What i`m having trouble with is the gastro issues. My tummy is still very gurgly, bubbly, etc. Lots of burping and farting and trying to get the colon working regularly. Any tips or advise would be much appriciated. Also how long did most of you stay on the stool softeners? Thanks Tim

It will be gurgly for about a week. Drink lots and avoid gassy foods. Foods that are high in fiber, but low in gas are best. Oatmeal, most vegetable except for peppers, onions, Broccoli, ...in other words, green beans, carrots, and LOTS of sweet potato and squash. that should settle things down really quickly.

Stay on your stool softener for as long as the cath is in.  I would also ween yourself off it gradually.

My 2cents

Paul

Tim,
I felt bloated for over a month after my surgery. I found that walking helps a lot, also watch what you eat. Avoid gas producing food such green vegetables such as broccoli, lettuce. Nuts, and spicy spicy foods (onions, garlic) should be avoided. Also I used collace as a stool softener.

As to softeners - I've been taking Docusate Calcium (used to be called Surfak before they were bought out, there are three or four brands - you usually have to ask for it - Drug Emporium puts it out on the shelf - Target, WalMart, and Kroger have it, but behind the counter). I discovered that it is not generally available in Europe.
My colo-rectal surgeon said it was the least abusive of the softeners to your system, and suggested taking it daily. It does not induce a BM, just makes sure the next one is softer.
I had cleared the BM hurdle day+3, but it took a week after that for things to get regular again.

DaVinci 23 Oct 09