This topic is about the experiences and challenges faced by someone five days after undergoing a colostomy reversal surgery. The person shares their journey with pain management, frequent bathroom visits, and dietary adjustments. Here are some insights and advice based on their experience:
- Pain is minimal, with only mild discomfort when standing or lying down. They manage it with 500 mg of extra-strength Tylenol at night. There is some stinging at the stoma closure sites and rectal pain during gas or bowel movements, but it is tolerable.
- Bathroom visits are frequent, with over 12 trips a day, leading to sore skin. They plan to use diaper ointment to help with this issue.
- Dietary challenges include a negative reaction to liquid vitamins and super-greens, which caused an immediate bowel movement and stomach ache. They have decided to pause these supplements until further healing occurs.
- Their current routine includes wearing an adult diaper at night for peace of mind, although there have been no accidents. They are still experiencing gas, but it is no longer painful. An abdominal binder is worn during the day, and they are continuing with a low-fiber diet.
- There are small victories, such as no blood in bowel movements and a slowly returning appetite.
Advice and insights from others include:
1. Pain generally decreases day by day, so there is hope for continued improvement.
2. To care for sore skin during frequent bathroom visits, gently dab or press with soft tissue or moist wipes instead of wiping to prevent further irritation.
3. Keeping a positive mental outlook and sharing daily progress can be helpful for others preparing for reversal surgery, as being informed can reduce anxiety.
See full discusison