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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Oct 26, 2014 17:15:55 GMT -5
Happy Sunday, Everyone,
To say I am happy with my DS and almost every aspect of it would be an understatement. I feel like I'm starting to understand it and know where I need to focus to improve my body's response to it. I'm losing a lot of hair but understand that's probably temporary so I'm not stressing over it. I'm also very tired all the time but thinking my blood test this week will let me know why.
I do have one problem, though, and it's painful. Now I don't eat a lot of carbs, usually between 25-50 so I don't think it's gas but three times in the last week (and a fourth right now), I get a lot of pain. It almost feels like that pain occurs as my bowel movement travels down towards the bottom and getting rid of it. It can last from 20 minutes to two or so hours. It's very painful and eventually arrives and lets me get rid of it. I then start to feel better and a little while later feel great again. Last night was so bad, I was sweating and shaking a bit. I started taking two Colace this afternoon to soften my bowel movement (yes, it's very,very hard) and I'm hoping it will not be as painful. Just a little information, I had a similar thing prior to surgery but it was usually real quick, pain then bathroom all within five to ten minutes. My husband mentioned the high protein, iron, and calcium possibly contributing to the episodes I'm having.
Do you think if I take the two stool softened daily it will get better or do you think I should try something else? Any suggestions you may have, I certainly appreciate!
Thanks in advance,
Kelly
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Post by newyorkbitch on Oct 26, 2014 17:29:26 GMT -5
I think you should speak to your doctor.
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Post by bboop on Oct 26, 2014 17:41:59 GMT -5
I agree with NYB...but how did the Colase work? If that stops it then go for it but do see your surgeon....just to be on the safe side.
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Oct 26, 2014 17:43:36 GMT -5
I'm planning on giving a call tomorrow. I did mention that I had constipation at one point and they had me take a laxative but I know that can't be taken on a steady basis. As much as I really like my doctor, I thought the vets on here may provide more insight. As always, thank you, NYB, for the feedback, I really appreciate it. I'm also planning on increasing my fat, maybe I'm not getting enough.
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Oct 26, 2014 17:47:10 GMT -5
Colace is just a softener. I'm thinking maybe the bowel movement is too hard (and large) so maybe that's why it hurts so much. If it's softer, maybe I won't feel pain. I'll be calling the doctor in the morning just to be on the safe side... One or two times, a fluke, this is the fourth time and has me a little nervous. Just hoping the Colace will be the solution! Thanks, bboop, I really appreciate the feedback!
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Post by newyorkbitch on Oct 26, 2014 18:02:54 GMT -5
Eat a couple of prunes...
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Oct 26, 2014 18:08:03 GMT -5
Good idea, NYB! Thx!
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Post by illinids2 on Oct 26, 2014 18:48:42 GMT -5
Add some more fat as well to help loosen things up
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Oct 26, 2014 18:55:47 GMT -5
 illinids, my husband just cooked two packs of bacon and said he wants me to eat at least 4 pieces everyday! Maybe it's because I don't get in enough fat. I hope you are feeling good, by the way, my thoughts have been on you and the others who experienced the obstructions. That's the reason I'm calling the doctor in the morning, perhaps they need to rule this out (I pray!) Thanks for the insight, Kelly |
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Post by newyorkbitch on Oct 26, 2014 23:17:46 GMT -5
I think you should eat some prunes, increase your fluids, and increase your fat intake. Also, are you eating fruits/veggies on a regular basis?
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Oct 27, 2014 5:59:05 GMT -5
Not eating fruits/veggies as much as I should be, NYB, that's for sure. My portions are probably too small. I'll plan to increase the fruits/veggies, try some prunes, and update the water. I'm drinking about 72 ounces a day but I'll do more. Thanks for the advice, I really appreciate it. Just to be on the safe side, I'll also let the doctor knows what is going on as I wouldn't want to risk it if something could be wrong. Right now I feel great!
Have a good day,
Kelly
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Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Oct 27, 2014 7:02:15 GMT -5
The prunes may have you running to the bathroom, as they do contain a significant amount of sugar. if the Colace works, maybe add some Mirrolax once a day, see how much that softens it up..
I agree though, add more fat. and WATER..
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Post by fullhousemom on Oct 27, 2014 7:50:41 GMT -5
While adding fat (bacon) in the morning is a great idea, I think you should balance your fat or fiber (vegetables) throughout the day. One high episode of fat (or fiber) might not necessary eliminate your pain. It may actually increase it.
I speak from personal experience. I have found that if I balance the fat/fiber with my protein throughout the day, I feel great. If I have too much fat/fiber or just protein, I have opposite effects. The balance is somewhere in the middle.
I have also found that it doesn't take a lot of veggies to help things along. Too much lettuce and I'm dying. You can still eat high protein with a small amount of veggies at three months out. Add the fat or fiber in small amounts, gradually, and see what works best for you. Just make sure you keep getting your protein and for sure, keep drinking that water. Good luck!
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Post by illinids2 on Oct 27, 2014 8:47:05 GMT -5
While adding fat (bacon) in the morning is a great idea, I think you should balance your fat or fiber (vegetables) throughout the day. One high episode of fat (or fiber) might not necessary eliminate your pain. It may actually increase it. I speak from personal experience. I have found that if I balance the fat/fiber with my protein throughout the day, I feel great. If I have too much fat/fiber or just protein, I have opposite effects. The balance is somewhere in the middle. I have also found that it doesn't take a lot of veggies to help things along. Too much lettuce and I'm dying. You can still eat high protein with a small amount of veggies at three months out. Add the fat or fiber in small amounts, gradually, and see what works best for you. Just make sure you keep getting your protein and for sure, keep drinking that water. Good luck! I agree completely on the balance of fat & fiber and carbs for that matter. Since I started on iron after my recent surgery I find that I am not constipated but much more firm...so to avoid getting to constipation I am focusing on more veggies throughout the day to help keep it flowing and less hard. Even though not fully constipated it did feel partially and was discomforting. BTW I can eat pretty much any veggies without issue but I really like sautéed squash with zucchini and also green beans. I am also eating more lettuce as well without any bad effecto (not a ton but I will eat half of a small salad typicalky). |
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Post by illinids2 on Oct 27, 2014 8:50:06 GMT -5
Not eating fruits/veggies as much as I should be, NYB, that's for sure. My portions are probably too small. I'll plan to increase the fruits/veggies, try some prunes, and update the water. I'm drinking about 72 ounces a day but I'll do more. Thanks for the advice, I really appreciate it. Just to be on the safe side, I'll also let the doctor knows what is going on as I wouldn't want to risk it if something could be wrong. Right now I feel great! Have a good day, Kelly Thanks Kelly. My pain is gone and doing well in that regard but I am still weak and tired as I am anemic and lots of messed up lab results..so I just had a full set on Friday (other than pth as silly lady ordered testosterone instead). Hopefully my gp figures it out or I will get hematologist referral. |
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Post by newyorkbitch on Oct 27, 2014 9:57:08 GMT -5
i"m suggesting that she eat a couple of prunes INSTEAD of taking colace or miralax….I'm in favor of trying something natural before medication. I don't think the sugar in a couple of prunes is going to have her running to the bathroom - the issue is that she is NOT running to the bathroom…
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mistercy
Full Member
Posts: 228
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: 03/26/2013
Surgeon: Mitchell Roslin
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Post by mistercy on Oct 27, 2014 10:01:39 GMT -5
In terms of fats, try to add some healthy fats. One way I was able to soften stools was to add a tablespoon or two of Coconut Oil to something I was eating, whether putting it over some melted cheese, or mixing it in a shake. The effects of the Coconut Oil can be pretty powerful to warn, so you have to find out what your system can tolerate. I also make fat bombs by mixing cocoa powder, some stevia sweetener, and coconut oil together, then freezing in flat sheets on parchment paper - DS friendly dark chocolate! Can be very dark, so I sometimes add a tablespoon of cream to give it a lighter texture. Some people go with supplements such as fish oil. Do what you can to better this situation - I waited and suffered too long, and ended up with a fissure, which I am going to get repaired next month - a pain in the a**, literally! And, listen to NYB's advice - can't hurt to consult with your doc about the issue, to make sure it is nothing more serious.
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PeteA
Full Member
Posts: 221
Surgery Date: 4/15/13
Surgeon: Dr. Phillip Schauer
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Post by PeteA on Oct 27, 2014 10:29:23 GMT -5
I don't think the Colace is a problem. Have you tried adding magnesium oxide with your calcium doses?
It did well for me early out and I've kept it on my schedule. I also recently started adding benefibre
with somewhat mixed results. They both should pull more water into your stools hopefully making it
softer in the process.
Absolutely check with a Doc. I know people say more fats will help but I find myself reluctant to do that
as part of my regular diet but really that pain is the worst. Do what ever works.
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Post by Girlrocker on Oct 27, 2014 12:11:25 GMT -5
Hi, well you got some great feedback already. My first thought was you must be having harder stools, that's the only time I get that kind of pain too.
I know you're in your early first year window, so watching carefully your carb intake, among other things. And we can be still be grateful, but need to vent, pitch the occasional bitch. This isn't easy, and takes a lot of trial and error to sort ourselves out on several fronts. I found the 50g carb guideline worked for me very well so that I could work in some fiber, bit of fresh or dried fruit, veg, and I too prefer good fat vs. straight ahead fat foods except of course for things like cheese (my favorite) and a bit of bacon every week, plus my love of red meat, burgers. Cream cheese is staple fat for me too, in my cream cheese pancakes and in my crustless quiche batter. Heavy cream is a favorite fat for many. I use butter, olive oil, avocado, nuts. Played around with the amounts, combos and I have done pretty well overall and I'll be 3 years out from my revision in December, don't deal much with constipation, hard stools which amazes me given the amount of calcium I take. The fats and fiber definitely help keep me moving. I'm a fan too of natural options before medicinal ones, if I get results.
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Oct 28, 2014 10:45:13 GMT -5
Thank you all SO MUCH for your advice. I'm happy to report I'm following all of your advice and have not had an episode since Sunday when I originally posted. Things are moving along much smoother without the biting pain. I'll be in heaven if this lasts as this was my biggest concern (it was very painful!)
I did leave a message with the doctor's office yesterday but I know the Dr. does surgery on Mondays so I'll probably hear back today.
You are all the best, thank you,
Kelly
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Post by historytracker on Nov 6, 2014 1:39:56 GMT -5
Kelly - I have hard BM once in a while and when that happens - I add more fat to my diet. One of the foods that works for me is full fat mayo. I make tuna fish for lunch and then have some bacon with breakfast. I saute some chicken in butter and olive oil for dinner. You can get creative with this.
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Post by illinids2 on Nov 6, 2014 4:00:20 GMT -5
Kelly - I have hard BM once in a while and when that happens - I add more fat to my diet. One of the foods that works for me is full fat mayo. I make tuna fish for lunch and then have some bacon with breakfast. I saute some chicken in butter and olive oil for dinner. You can get creative with this. I have bacon and eggs (sunny side up or very wet scrambled with cheese) every morning. This really helps keep things from getting constipated like (haven't been constipated since after initial days after surgery but have been bloated and less flowing on occasion). Coffee too! I eat some foods with mayo/miracle wjip but not that often. I eat lots of soups and like sauces with food..also eat lots of veggies so that helps as well. I certainly don't ever worry about fat but I don't seek it out...but get plenty. |
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DSwitcher
Junior Member
Posts: 88
Surgery Type: Revision
Surgery Date: 08/26/2014
Surgeon: BOYCE
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Post by DSwitcher on Nov 6, 2014 17:59:42 GMT -5
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DSwitcher
Junior Member
Posts: 88
Surgery Type: Revision
Surgery Date: 08/26/2014
Surgeon: BOYCE
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Post by DSwitcher on Nov 6, 2014 18:00:49 GMT -5
Happy Sunday, Everyone, To say I am happy with my DS and almost every aspect of it would be an understatement. I feel like I'm starting to understand it and know where I need to focus to improve my body's response to it. I'm losing a lot of hair but understand that's probably temporary so I'm not stressing over it. I'm also very tired all the time but thinking my blood test this week will let me know why. I do have one problem, though, and it's painful. Now I don't eat a lot of carbs, usually between 25-50 so I don't think it's gas but three times in the last week (and a fourth right now), I get a lot of pain. It almost feels like that pain occurs as my bowel movement travels down towards the bottom and getting rid of it. It can last from 20 minutes to two or so hours. It's very painful and eventually arrives and lets me get rid of it. I then start to feel better and a little while later feel great again. Last night was so bad, I was sweating and shaking a bit. I started taking two Colace this afternoon to soften my bowel movement (yes, it's very,very hard) and I'm hoping it will not be as painful. Just a little information, I had a similar thing prior to surgery but it was usually real quick, pain then bathroom all within five to ten minutes. My husband mentioned the high protein, iron, and calcium possibly contributing to the episodes I'm having. Do you think if I take the two stool softened daily it will get better or do you think I should try something else? Any suggestions you may have, I certainly appreciate! Thanks in advance, Kelly Stool softener causes increased absorption for me... |
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Post by illinids2 on Nov 6, 2014 19:00:02 GMT -5
Most all but I really like green beans (fresh are the best especially cooked for hours with bacon) , broccoli, sauteed zucchini & squash and a variety of Asian veggies. |
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Nov 6, 2014 19:52:56 GMT -5
Cindy and Illinids, I'm trying to eat four pieces of bacon to up my fat because I'm not registering too high with that.
DSwitcher, I mostly eat string beans, some carrots, and I guess that's about it. I may add some fruit to my diet, also. I've been so focused on protein that I don't get as much fruit and vegetables as I should. I really hope it doesn't cause increased absorption, my surgeon said that or fiber should relieve the problem. I am up a pound but that could just be fluctuations.
Thanks,
Kelly
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Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Nov 7, 2014 10:46:40 GMT -5
nothing you eat will cause increased absorption. Fiber will bulk up your stools, possibly keeping them softer. if fiber is what your after, I would investigate some benefiber, or other fiber supplement if you can't eat enough fruits and veggies. the benefiber you can mix with your protein shake and you would barely notice it is in there.
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Post by songbird177 on Nov 7, 2014 13:23:22 GMT -5
I was sweaty with pain when I had my obstruction. Might want to get a ct with contrast to be safe.
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Post by songbird177 on Nov 7, 2014 13:23:55 GMT -5
If elimination diet doesn't work
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Post by OnMyWay2Thin on Nov 7, 2014 14:45:47 GMT -5
Thanks Ds4life and songbird. Ds4life, I'm wondering if the fiber would be better than a Colace. I'm also wondering if I should see if the increased fat is helping by not taking the colace. I forgot to take the Colace last night and was able to go this morning (not as easily as with Colace, but not bad.) Songbird, you're reading my thoughts, that was my fear when I first posted this and I'm starting to think most people with the DS get that at some time. I'm definitely keeping an eye on it. On a good note, since I've upped my fat and taken the Colace, I haven't had a repeat of those painful experiences. I had mentioned to my husband that we may have been taken a trip to the hospital for a CT with contrast if things didn't improve quickly, but fortunately they did. I still worry, though, I guess that's just my make up...
Songbird, I've got to mention again, I'm so glad you are feeling better. Loved your pictures...
Thank you all so much for getting me through this tough little subject that I couldn't have spoken as freely about anywhere but here! I certainly appreciate it.
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illinids, my husband just cooked two packs of bacon and said he wants me to eat at least 4 pieces everyday! Maybe it's because I don't get in enough fat. I hope you are feeling good, by the way, my thoughts have been on you and the others who experienced the obstructions. That's the reason I'm calling the doctor in the morning, perhaps they need to rule this out (I pray!)
