I wrote about a week ago, had the j-pouch surgery about a year ago. All was ok till 2 weeks ago I started having to go to the bathroom 15-20 times a day, 5 minutes after eating anything etc. Bloating, abdominal pain etc.

Went to the emergency, the doctor said that he could give me some Cortezone - but I've had lots of problems with it before (not being able to get off it) so I opted to wait and talk to my specialist before getting back into that world.


Of course, my specialist is busy busy busy - so I can only see him around the 16th ... which really sucks as if all this is pouchitis some antibiotics could get ride of the problems within 2-3 days. It's been 2 weeks and its really getting in the way of doing my daily activities. I am considering going back to the emergency and taking the Cortezone.

My question is - other than the pain and feeling like **** is there any possible bad effects for letting the pouchitis linger on like this - I hope it won't be a case of "if we would have treated it sooner" etc.

Other than that I'm taking some muscle relaxants (Robax) and advil, is there anything else anyone takes here for the pain ... and maybe something to help with lowering the bowel movements - I haven't tried anything yet.

Any help would be appreciated,
Martin

Pepto Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)has antibacterial properties. Worth trying while you wait to see the doc. Any reason he can't phone in a prescription for you based on your symptoms or just see your primary doctor? A gastroenterologist can prescribe for you too. No real need to see the surgeon.

Probiotics are also worth trying, but I wouldn't hold out much hope for a full blown pouchitis.

Jan