I don't come here often anymore. But this community was a life-safer when I had my surgery in June '05. I basically have been problem free since my surgery and have been living my life. My thought and prayers are always with those that are still suffering.......... Although, recently I am waking up at night at least two times. I am not one of these people that can go back to sleep easily. This has been going on for about two months. Before that I never (maybe occasionally) woke up. I was very greatful for this. Now, I am fatiqued all the time. Irritable and just generally feel bad. I know this is because I don't sleep enough. I just can't understand why all the sudden I am waking up to "go". I can not put my finger on anything I am doing differently. Other than this things seem all the same. I did a search and read through many post of people that have this problem and I realize it could be much worse. I do not leak, always wake up. But like I said I am in turmoil from lack of sleep as I can not go back to sleep easily. I just don't understand how for over a year I never woke up and now all the sudden this is a problem for me. Any advice, comments, words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated!!!!! I can share my meds, rituals if needed.

Thanks, Parrish

Since this is new, you could have mild pouchitis--that turned out to be my son's problem. It was only apparent in biopsies, not with the scope. You could ask to try a course of Cipro. Thomas also takes Lomotil at night. And sometimes Metamucil wafers.

I would try a good probiotic (VSL #3, Culturelle, PB 8 I think is another). My daughter's surgeon told her that's how he treats patients that get it (or antibiotics). I'd jump on this and not let it get too bad. Good Luck Parrish! I hope you get back to feeling like yourself again soon!

I'm well adjusted to getting up a one or two times each night but on those nights when I really do want to sleep through the night I eat an early dinner and no food after dinner. I go to bed a little later than usual and I take two Tylenol P.M. before going to sleeep. This has insured my sleeping through the night. Most of the time, I am not as disciplined and find myself eating clear up until bedtime. Tsk! Tsk! I pay the price, but, for me, it's worth it. Best wishes.

I'm coming into my 6 week post op. I sleep usually 3 hours, then I am up for another 3, then maybe 2 more hours of sleep. I, like you, cannot go back to sleep easily. I don't eat anything after dinner just so I can be done with bathroom trips by bed time. I hope when my body is adjusted to the pouch I don't have to get up in the night.

Benadryl is a safe drug that will dry things up, help you sleep longer, and make you tired enough to go back to sleep after you are awake. You might give it a try.