Hello all,
I came here about one year ago dealing with some problems post surgery, obviously there will be a bunch, especially so close post surgery.
My life has been completely changed by the surgery. Before the surgery, I was tired, lethargic, and moody (likely because of the drug cocktail I was taking.) Since the surgery, I have had energy again, something that had been stolen from be in my prime 20s. It has not been without challenge. And a few things still frustrate me, but overall, I would recommend the surgery to someone with severe UC at this point.
I still go 4-6 times a day depending on what I eat, but this is manageable as they are quick stop-offs, or I have some good reading material or my phone to keep me entertained. Calmoseptine is a must! I don't use it after every visit, not even every day, but when you have that little bit of mustard or something you didn't expect to burn, you better have it nearby. I take nothing else- no VSL, no culture, no immodium, I try to eat a yogurt everyday. I still have night-time issues, I try to eat before 7 if possible, and I set an alarm for about 2:30am everyday to get up and avoid accidents in the bed, I wear an adult pad to bed just in case, though it is not needed 90 percent of the time now. Its one year post surgery- and the nighttime issues have gotten progressively better and better, like the muscle that holds it in just continues to get stronger and my body adjusts more.
Despite these issues, yesterday I performed my greatest physical accomplishment to date, just one year post surgery. I hiked 20 miles, 42,000 steps according to my pedometer, all in one stint, up two separate bluffs 1200 feet tall. I am amazed this is possible, and it wouldn't have been without the surgery. I definitely got a little dehydrated, and I'm still recovering at home right now, drinking plenty of fluids. The day trip was a monument to what this surgery can do for people, I can keep up with everyone else now, and even pass by physically people who have every single one of their organs! I did not think that possible 30 pounds overweight, with severe UC just 14 months ago before my first surgery. Having energy back means having a life back, getting to do these things just enjoying life again.
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