I had an 'emergency' colostomy in May 2010. I was told I had diverticulitis, but it turns out I had a ruptured appendix causing peritonitis. I wore my colostomy (or it wore me) for 11 months. I had the reversal in April 2011, and they also repaired a fairly sized parastomal hernia. Six months later, I still have 'accidents'. Just when I think it's gas, I have a mess. There is always an urgency when I have to go, so knowing where facilities are is always a top priority. Carrying extra clothes is a necessity, and going out on a boat is out of the question. The hernia is back but plays hide and seek when I see my doctor. My bum is always irritated, and I haven't figured that one out yet. It's like baby rash. Cornstarch seems to work better than over-the-counter remedies. Food is an issue. I must eat fruit with cheese, or I can't go. I must eat cheese with fruit, or I just go and go. Everything must be balanced out.
My doc says no way to know when things will settle down, if they do. No doubt this is better than the bag, but geez, I wonder if getting back to normal will ever happen. I understand how folks feel self-conscious; first with the bag, now with miles of scars everywhere and another hernia to boot. I was glad to be single before the reversal, but now I'm just lonely and can't lift anything.
This is my story, and there apparently wasn't anything wrong with my colon in the first place. I can't imagine what this would be like if there had been.
I don't think reversals are a heal-all. Just something to think about if you're considering it.
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