Hi everyone, I have problems going to the bathroom for the past few months. Its kind of intermittent. Some days it seems ok and others its like trying to push through a wall. I've seen the doctor and he has dialatted the area where the pouch connects to the anal area. I went again last week so he could balloon the area and he said it looked fine and did not need to be opened. I have had my pouch since 1994 & I know something is not right. I would appreciate any advise. THanks

Tommy

I had my surgery in 94, also. Sometimes my system is a little slow to empty, too. I use Benefiber to thicken things up and add fiber to my diet. I have adhesions that restrict me from eating most fruits and veggies. Fruit smoothies are great to get the nutrients. I stick to a smooth diet. The pain from blockages are not worth it! Also, you might want to try a liquid diet for a few meals. I like Slimfast. My gut feels the best while on a liquid diet. If I feel like I am not emptying all the way, I take a little Milk of Magnesia. Try it for a few days. Trying to find a diet that agrees with your body is stressful. Try keeping a food journal for a few weeks. It is hard to find a balance between healthy food and low fiber. I hope you feel better soon!

I think you have a partial obstruction. I get these from time to time. Fortunately, for me they only last a few days. I think he needs to look higher up than the anal anastomosis. But, since it is intermittent, it probably is an adhesion that is causing intermittent kinks.

Jan

When I feel blocked up I take stool softners. They work great but it takes a couple of days for the effects to take place, so you cant skip a pill.