I thought I was doing everything ok, but I do strain and my surgeon says she sees things that are not good (pouch getting too large from not emptying enough and problems due to straining). I was told to drink more water, but it wasn't until someone on here said drink, drink, drink...and it comes out like a fountain that I tried it out. Since drinking water before, during and after eating I am doing much better. I don't seem to go to the bathroom anymore than before (except maybe peeing more), but I am definitely able to empty my pouch easier than in the past. I thought having a more firm stool was a good thing. That's incorrect, right? Yesterday we went to some bars to watch the games (a plus of still having the antibodies for Covid) and I drank probably 5 glasses of water. I never can have spicy food...it gives me the worst butt burn and gas. I had nachos and pizza with sausage and pepperoni. I never had an issue. No butt burn and everything came out just fine! Anything else I'm doing wrong, lol?
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I’m glad the extra fluid is helping you empty your pouch without straining! Firm stool is not a J-poucher’s friend. I don’t know if you’re doing anything else wrong, but if you’re married you could ask your spouse - that usually turns up an answer.
I was the one that said that about the water. So happy my advice helped! I like to advertise drinking water: before, during, and after every meal as much as possible on here. I am happy it helped you dear! I am glad you had fun that day too!
How many bowel movements a day do you have???
Thanks so much, Lauren! I've continued drinking and that and the collagen powder I started taking in March have really helped. My anxiety has gone down because I'm not worrying about it. Have a great day!
Scott, not married, but got a beautiful ring for Christmas and will be moving in with him soon, lol. Since he has only known me 3 years post surgery, he has SLOWLY been learning. I guess I can be called a success story because he thinks I have no issues with not having a colon, lol. I've had to explain otherwise on many occasions.
@Disneynut posted:Thanks so much, Lauren! I've continued drinking and that and the collagen powder I started taking in March have really helped. My anxiety has gone down because I'm not worrying about it. Have a great day!
Scott, not married, but got a beautiful ring for Christmas and will be moving in with him soon, lol. Since he has only known me 3 years post surgery, he has SLOWLY been learning. I guess I can be called a success story because he thinks I have no issues with not having a colon, lol. I've had to explain otherwise on many occasions.
You are soo welcome my dear Continue to pass the word I actually learned the water thing from a YOUTUBE video on how to prevent blockages for Ileostomies, I was like, " I bet this is great advice for pouch people too" and here I am advertising it and doing it lol
So happy you found a great guy