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Hey All - been quite a long time since I've posted on here, hoping for a little advise.  I had a 2-step J-pouch done in 2004 and thankfully have done remarkably well (knock on wood!)  I've dealt with only a handful of blockage issues and minor bouts of pouchitis.  I continue to see my surgeon yearly for follow-ups and to keep tabs on the pouch.

Approx 4-6 weeks ago I began getting what I can only describe as "bellyaches" and they have continued until the present time.  The type of discomfort changes from a 'bellyache' to a sharper cramp type pain and then even to a more severe, nauseous type ache.  I am also more constantly bloated than I usually am and often have heartburn.  I have not noticed if these pains/discomforts follow meals, or any particular food, or otherwise.  My BMs remain steady in number as well as consistency (usually loose), and the only change I've noticed is a bit of difficult passing gas, compared to 'usual.'

I sucked it up and saw my surgeon last week. Examination of pouch revealed nothing but a normal, healthy setup...no inflammation or otherwise.  He did agree I was bloated, however.  Since pouchitis was not indicated, he did not prescribe any meds or special diets....only to call in a few weeks if pains persist.

Anyone out there have any input or advice as to what might be going on?  Usually a few aches and cramps come and go, but this has been pretty consistent.  Thanks in advance!

Ken

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Thanks Scott - I'm kind of thinking the same, unrelated to the pouch since it was clean.  I haven't seen a gastro since I had my surgeries in 2004, just my surgeon.  He did say he'd recommend one if symptoms persist.  I do, however, have an appt with my regular doctor next week.

I'm going on a vacation shortly, was hoping for last minute so I could enjoy the time away!

Hi Ken

i too have started with the same issues. My original surgery was 2011. I recently (July) had to have scar tissue removed due to constant obstructions. After the surgery I have tremendous heart burn, pain in belly that I have never experienced before.  Now I am having blood in my stool and an anal irritation that won't stop. I also see my surgeon not a gastro doc. 

This has been a trying time for me as I know it has for you too. Take care and good luck. 

V

Hey V - sorry to hear of your misfortune!  It is unfortunate that we have to deal with issues such as these after all we've been through, but that is life!  My 'symptoms' have changed somewhat since I originally posted, but I do still have a lot of heartburn/indigestion and bloat on demand when eating.  And I do have some nasty cramping.  I think I have adhesions giving me issues.

I am fortunate to have no issues 'down below.'  I think your surgeon will need to have a look at the pouch to rule out any sources of bleeding.  If there's nothing there, I'd see a gastro to look into stomach/small intestine...which might be my next move.

Best of luck - let us know how you're doing!

Ken

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