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Nov 11, 2011

Surviving a Colonectomy - My Journey to Recovery

This topic is about a person who went through a challenging medical journey after an emergency total colectomy, which is the removal of the entire colon. This surgery was necessary due to life-threatening complications caused by ibuprofen, leading to multiple perforations in the colon. The person faced numerous post-operative challenges, including infections, weight loss, and multiple surgeries, but eventually adapted to living with a permanent ileostomy. Here are some insights and advice shared by others who have experienced similar situations:

1. Appliance Routine:
- Ensure the correct use of products; adhesive remover and adhesive can look similar.
- Change the ostomy bag every 4-5 days or sooner if there is any seepage.
- On change days, skip breakfast, remove the appliance in the shower, let water run over the stoma, spray antiseptic, blow-dry the area, and alternate adhesive spray with drying before attaching the wafer. Use paste or powder if the skin is sore.

2. Lifestyle and Activities:
- Engage in activities that bring joy and a sense of accomplishment, like building furniture or working on personal projects.
- Gauge health by completing at least one constructive task daily.

3. Medical Background and Current Issues:
- Be aware of the potential side effects of medications like ibuprofen, which can cause severe complications.
- Address chronic fatigue, which may be due to anemia from slow GI bleeding or ulcers. A medical scope can help identify and treat the source.
- Prepare for possible extensive surgeries and consider pain management options, especially if NSAIDs are not suitable and opioids offer limited relief.

4. Emotional Support and Perspective:
- Maintain a positive attitude and seek emotional support from others who have gone through similar experiences.
- Remember that recovery can be a long process, but things can improve over time.

5. Protect Against Hernias:
- Avoid heavy lifting after abdominal surgery or when living with an ostomy. Seek help when moving heavy objects to prevent hernias.

6. Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN):
- If needed, TPN is manageable. Although the setup can be intimidating at first, with practice, it becomes routine, allowing for a return to normal activities.
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