This topic revolves around someone who has experienced significant health challenges following multiple ileostomy and spinal surgeries. They are dealing with shortness of breath, palpitations, and leg pain, which have made everyday activities quite difficult. Here are some insights and advice shared by others who have faced similar issues:

1. Smoking and Physical Conditioning
- Reducing cigarette consumption and incorporating light exercise or aerobic activities can help improve shortness of breath and energy levels.

2. Diaphragmatic Breathing
- Practicing diaphragmatic breathing, such as the dime-on-navel exercise, can help manage episodes of shallow breathing and the sensation of not getting enough air.

3. Palpitations and Rapid Heart Rate
- Palpitations and a rapid heartbeat are common in fibromyalgia and can lead to shortness of breath. It's important to have these symptoms evaluated, as a fast heart rate increases oxygen demand and can cause hyperventilation.

4. Possible Nerve Involvement
- The combination of sudden leg pain and shortness of breath might indicate a pinched sciatic nerve or other spinal nerve issues. Increased pain can lead to faster breathing. Some have found relief only after spinal surgery by a skilled orthopedic or neurosurgeon.

5. Post-Operative Fluid Overload
- If symptoms appeared shortly after surgery, it might be worth discussing with a doctor whether excess IV fluids could be contributing to palpitations and shortness of breath.

6. Seek Direct Answers
- It's crucial to insist on clear explanations from healthcare providers. Request copies of imaging reports and, if necessary, ask for referrals to spine or pain specialists to get a comprehensive understanding of the situation.