I have had my colostomy for five months. Due to severe chronic constipation, I only have output by using laxatives. My surgeon is recommending changing from a colostomy to an ileostomy in hopes of correcting the problem.
Does anyone have experience with this situation?
Your comments would be greatly appreciated.
I'm sorry you're dealing with that. I do have occasional debilitating constipation, but nothing like what you are describing. If using laxatives daily to have a bowel movement, it probably would be best to convert to an ileostomy. I unfortunately don't have experience with an ileostomy (only a colostomy so far). I hope you find the help and support you need. 🫂
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I most certainly do relate, but I don't know what your situation was prior to your surgery. I spent most of my adult life with chronic constipation, which turned out to actually be colonic inertia, or a non-functioning colon. After my colon perforated, I was given an emergency colostomy, but my chronic constipation continued, and I had one blockage after another, as stool would not move. The solution for me was an ileostomy, and it changed my life for the better. Did you have trouble with constipation before your surgery? I'm wondering why your doctor would be recommending an ileostomy if there was simply a way of treating the constipation.
Terry
You need to find out what your doctor thinks is going on. Maybe get a second opinion if you aren't getting clear answers.
In a case like Terry's, they identified a non-functioning colon, so it makes sense to remove the colon. If I were you, I'd want an explanation as clear as hers. There are many good reasons for switching to an ileostomy, but the reasoning needs to be explained to you.
Are you saying that the doctor would remove your colon and utilize the small bowel? That only sounds reasonable if the colon is no longer doing its job (no pun intended). The colon absorbs most of the water from your food, so your small bowel needs to learn that it needs to do that. You may also have to take salt tablets to help with absorption. I understand only because that's exactly what I needed back in 1984. Just make sure you get all the info you can; it's a big undertaking, but it gave me my life back. All the best.
G-Day JuJu,
If, as you say, you got your coloscopy because of severe chronic constipation, it sounds like your colon wasn't working, so why give you a colostomy? I would have thought an ileostomy was the way to go.
If, as Terry said, your colon was at fault, then I would be talking to the surgeon about an ileostomy and getting rid of the colon.
Regards, IGGIE
I am not sure about an ileostomy, but I have a colostomy, and I was told by my surgeon that I needed to take Miralax every day. I find I will still have some output if I don't take it, but depending on what I ate, it can get stodgy and thick, and it seems to feel a bit painful at the stoma or cause cramps if I don't take it. I asked and did research on taking it every day, and it doesn't seem to be a problem or issue. I have eaten and drank other things that will make me very loose, but I know how I feel and react with the Miralax. Although I actually use the Costco brand, so it's cheaper, works just as well, and comes in a large bottle as a 2-pack, at least it does in my area. Hope that helps a little.
Insoluble fibers and liquids are good for chronic constipation. Have you tried the insoluble fiber psyllium (Metamucil)? Taking laxatives long-term can cause permanent damage to your digestive tract.
Taking laxatives daily is not a good thing in the long run. It can damage your organs. I say listen to your doctor. They are the professionals. Ask questions. Make a list of things you want to know before you go in. Ask about how this will fix the problem. Ask if there are any other alternatives. Ask about your diet and what you might be able to do in that regard. Ask anything you want to know before a procedure is done. Then you can make an informed decision. Just be aware that constant laxative use can lead to dehydration, which can lead to constipation, and it can be a vicious cycle. Be sure you are taking in enough fluids, electrolyte drinks, as well as water. You may be losing electrolytes due to laxative use.
Make sure you are looking at the cost per ounce. One would think the Kirkland brand would be less, but not so where I am.
