Hi all - I posted in J pouch forum - thought I'd also try here to see if I can get anyone who went through something like this. I've had the j pouch 30 years. Recently, (about 2 weeks ago, I think) I began to have yellow stools (moreso than usual) and feel a bit of pressure (no pain - not much pressure) just to right of my belly button. I can tell something is off. I'm weak and oddly- my appetite has INCREASED - usually in these situations it would decrease. I am nauseated and feel some indigestion - which I've really not had before (upper GI indigestion) - like all those people who take Nexium. I thought it was a virus and waited for it to go away - it's not. I'm actually eating and drinking a lot, gaining some weight (not a lot), and just generally feel bad - no energy, nausea is almost constant. Trying to drink tons of water, propel, sprite with water, etc. etc. I am sort of freaking out that "this is it" - will obviously call GI doctor Monday - my GI guy just retired - so sad about that and hope I can get in. I am hoping it's something such as a parasite or whatever that can be fixed, but I am fearing the big "c" has got me - I know this is irrational and that no one can tell me what it is one way or the other. I just wondered if anyone out there with the pouch ever had an extended time with the symptoms above and what the outcome was. Thanks for anyone out there who might assist me or have any insight into this. OH - and I did see bright red blood on tissue- but only once or twice in past two weeks. I'm just scared - but I know I will just have to deal with whatever happens. thanks to anyone who can offer insight....
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You have FAP, right? So, pouchitis is less likely, but not impossible. Could be a virus or other gut infection. How long since your last scope? Could be a bleeding polyp, or just gastroenteritis, from any number of things.
It is common to let your mind drift to worst case scenarios, but that won't solve your issue. It will just generate more stress hormones, like tossing gasoline on the fire. Now is the time to gather your coping skills for finding your calmness. You've done it before. Once you see the doctor, I'm sure you'll be able to rest.
I hate not knowing too!
Jan
Hi Jan - yep FAP - I was hoping to hear from you - yes, you are right and I have gone into "coping mode" and am kind of past the panic. I felt so bad physically those two days...just scared me. Well, we know all kinds of physical pain is being endured by people on this site - and we have endured it in the past - and we've come through it. Yes, worst case scenario was in my mind...and it won't go away totally - but is human... I am really ashamed to say my last scope was 2 years ago - not yearly, as I am supposed to do...so I think that was also why I was so upset - as in, "you KNOW you have to do this and you didn't - so here's what you get" - Anyway, my GI retired, so in process of trying to get into a new person and although I feel bad, I feel better mentally. THANKS so much, Jan.