Hi all -

I am 4 1/2 months after reversal surgery. In general I think I am doing well; my daily bm count is decreasing, I can usually pass gas safely and without pain...

What troubles me is that sometimes I need to be involved in  group dinner situations for work. Each time, I find that I have feelings of urgency, I need to run to the bathroom frequently, to the point that I feel rectal pain if I try to hold it in.

The issue does not seem to be the food, because sometimes I am the one who cooks and can choose "safe" foods. My bms are generally more frequent in evenings, but in these social/work situations I run off to the bathroom a LOT more - maybe 6 times more than on a regular day. The other night I was miserable during the group conversation, feeling waves of spasming rectal pain every few minutes and putting all my energy into "holding on" rather than moderating the discussion.

I had assumed any "nervous stomach" thing would be gone once my colon was gone, but, I guess not?!

This only happens at work "social" events when I am a bit nervous. (I am in a leadership position.)

Any pointers? I've wondered about taking an antispasmodic before the event? Or an anxiety med?