G'day folks. Haven't been on in years. Thought I'd give you an update on my progress so that those of you considering this surgery can hear from a guy that truly benefited from it.
I suffered from Jan 2000 until March 2007 as my Chrohn's colitis got progressively worse. Pred was the only thing that kept life even close to livable. Had the first surgery. Not fun afterwords. Bag wouldn't fit at first. Infection of wound, so had to pop the staples and pack with gauze for a month or so. Bowel wasn't working when they sent me home. Took half a day to figure that out when I puked up a stomach load of green stuff. Back in the hospital for three more days. Drugs were good though.
Dealt with the bag for three months, got used to it. Realized I could live with one if had to.
Second surgery a breeze. Then the ass burn and itching. Egad! Came here looking for answers and one of the old and wise pouchers told me to cool my jets and let the calendar do it's work. He was right. Better every month. Took at least a year before I could stop using the Calmoseptine. I only use wet tp now when wiping.
I do go several times a day. Only take imodium at night. Still get up at least twice. Get used to it. No biggy.
No pain. NO URGENCY! No freaking drugs. I can hold for an hour if need be, with occasional pressure reminding me I have to go.
I guess I'm one of the lucky ones.
PM me if you need help, I don't visit here often.
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