This topic is about a person's experience with an ileostomy reversal, focusing on their first week of recovery, how they managed pain, and some practical tips they found helpful. Here’s a breakdown of their journey and advice:

- The person had an emergency end-colostomy due to complications from diverticulitis surgery. Later, they had a colostomy-to-loop-ileostomy conversion to allow their colon to heal. A week ago, they underwent a successful ileostomy reversal.

- They are feeling well enough to walk, do light housework, and wear trousers, although wearing a belt is still uncomfortable.

- Mentally, living with the ileostomy was more challenging than the original colostomy, so the reversal feels like a significant achievement.

- For pain control, they take one Aleve (naproxen) each morning, which helps for most of the day. They also take one oxycodone in the afternoon and one or two before bed to manage any remaining soreness.

- Their diet consists of several small meals to avoid cramping and protect the new surgical connection. They are still cautious about introducing new foods until further healing occurs.

- They recommend scheduling surgery for the first operating-room slot of the day to reduce pre-op anxiety, as a late-afternoon slot led to an emotional meltdown.

- They maintain a positive mindset, acknowledging that setbacks can happen but believing that recovery is largely within their control. They plan to contact their surgeon’s office with any concerns to avoid complications.

- They express gratitude to the online community for providing information and emotional support.

Additional insights and experiences include:

- The hospital stay for the reversal was 3 days, compared to 4-5 days for the earlier surgery due to infection risk.

- Early bowel movements included surgical blood, which was normal but monitored. Hospital staff measured stool volume using a collection "hat."

- A Penrose drain was removed painlessly before discharge.

- They take 1-2 stool softeners daily and a mild fiber supplement to prevent constipation and gas-related pain.

- Overeating once led to severe cramping, reinforcing the importance of small meals.

- Severe hiccups after clear-liquid meals were resolved with 25 mg of Thorazine when other measures failed.

- Incision pain felt like a deep bruise around the former stoma, and there was intense itching from tape. They recommend using pillows in bed to brace against accidental bumps.

- They suggest drinking kefir to help repopulate gut flora, but only with a doctor’s approval.

- For pre-op fear, they advise informing the anesthesia team, as medications like Valium and Versed can help calm nerves before surgery.

Advice and insights for others considering or undergoing reversal:

- Reversal may not always be successful. If infections or abscesses persist, a permanent ileostomy might be a better option, as it can eliminate pain and reduce medication dependence.

- Expect to have some ancillary equipment after reversal, such as Penrose or Jackson-Pratt drains, and possibly a nasogastric tube. Removal is usually quick and painless.

- Understand the differences between colostomies and ileostomies. Colostomy users can often irrigate and use minimal covers, while ileostomy output is continuous and liquid, requiring regular pouches and more frequent changes. Knowing these differences can help reduce frustration when adapting to a loop ileostomy during a two-step reversal.

- Be aware that multiple abdominal surgeries can lead to adhesions, hernias, and chronic pain. Future operations may be necessary, so it’s important to discuss long-term management with your surgical team.