I am 2 years post surgery and in general do pretty well, I just have weeks where I feel really normal and sometimes days where I go every couple hours and diet does not seem to be a factor. About once a month I get some cramping that will last 1-5 days and just go away. It feels like gas buildup because it will cramp and then go away (I can hear the growling noise in my gut when it is released). This happens a lot on the first day then gradually decreases the next few days until gone. I was almost thinking blockage or partial blockage but during this time I can still eat normally and go to the bathroom but it is usually Diarrea during this period. When I go it still does not relieve the cramp and I never expell any gas. When it finallydoes disappear I then notice that I do expell gas when I go. Docter claims IBS but it just doesn't seem right, has anybody else had this problem?

Yep...I have had almost exactly what you described. It feels like gas, but I never really expel any. My problem turned out to be pouchitis. Maybe ask about that.

It does sound like IBS, which can be intermittent and puzzling like you describe. Mild partial obstructions can be similar too. If it was pouchitis, I don't think it would be intermittent, resolving on its own.

Jan

Thanks for the replies, I know it is not pouchitis because the first time it happend my Gastro did a scope on my pouch while I was having the problem and he said everything looked great.

I have thought about taking a laxative or something like the Fleet Soda that cleans you out when that happens but I thought if it was a blockage it could cause a bigger problem, what do you think?

I have IBS plus j-pouch in 1999 from UC. IBS and IBD can occur together (lucky us ). I get similar symptoms as you do. Taking chlordiazepam/clidinium (Librax) capsules helps if you can lie down and try to be as relaxed as you can. The medication is a smooth muscle relaxer (only effects smooth muscles, like gut/intestinal muscles), can minimize cramping, and a also contains a very mild tranquilizer. I take it when my IBS flares. I hope this helps.
Mav+

If you are obstructed, purgative laxatives are generally contraindicated. This is because they can cause increased swelling by increasing the peristalsis trying to move past the obstruction. So yes, taking laxatives can have a worsening effect and it can even make it a surgical emergency.

Your best bet is to stick to a liquid diet and take nothing stronger than fruit juice to help break things up and move them along. Antispasmotics are also a good option.

Jan