Redundant Colon anyone?

Curious as to the cause of my redundant colon, which has developed over the last 2 years, notably since commencing hydroxycarbamide. Last month I had my first colonoscopy and learned of this. I have a very distended belly (bloating) and it looks to be permanent. Should I blame the drug or my age (currently 70)? Weight gain has been significant as well.

[hunter5582]

While HU can cause GI issues that affect the colon, I do not think that it would cause a redundant colon. Perhaps it could make symptoms worse, particularly constipation. That really is a question best reviewed by your gastroenterologist and MPN Specialist. Likewise with the weight gain, which is a known HU side effect. Another issue to review with your care team.

The good news is that there are other treatment options should the HU not be suitable based on your situation. Suggest you review your treatment options with a MPN Specialist.

Hope you get it all sorted soon.

[Orangeboykitty in reply to hunter5582]

HU caused significant diarrhea, nausea, lack of appetite in me, so weight loss instead of weight gain. Thankfully, my hematologist pronounced me "Intolerant". Several years and medications later, I'm now on low dose Besremi, which is keeping my numbers in check and isn't giving me noticeable side effects.

[hunter5582 in reply to Orangeboykitty]

I was also HU-intolerant and it was ineffective. Fortunately, i have also responded much better to Besremi.

Wishing you continued success.

[Exeter21 in reply to Orangeboykitty]

same here I lost 4kgs on it never felt so I’ll & took 3 months to improve off it . Moved to Interferon Peg but currently off it & lowering doseage. Platelets came down from 590 to 350 . Julia uk

[Loubprv Volunteer]

hi

HU didn’t cause constant constipation - I ve always had an intermittent problem.

I eat lots of roughage drink at least two litres water every 24 hours, walk etc.

Various over the counter meds didn’t help.

So, finally, my gp suggested colonic hydrotherapy.

I was a bit reticent I have to say. However, I ve now had 3 treatments all a month apart.

The aim of CH is to exercise your colon. A bit like interior massage. It’s gently filled with a small amount of water at a time ( unlike an enema) which is then naturally expelled.

Do not take any notice of the perforated bowel stories. All rubbish according to my gp.

I strongly suggest you try this.

I ll think you ll find it makes a huge difference.

Toxins and ancient hard faeces will be elimated over time. You may feel very tired and have a slightly sore tum for 24 /48 hours, but hang in there.

The treatment isn’t remotely embarrassing and remember the person who administers the hydrotherapy will be well trained and used to doing the job.

You ll feel so much better .

You can find qualified colonic hydrotherapists near you on google.

All the best, hope you feel so much better soon.

Louise

[Mirror368]

Are you drinking a minimum of 64 ounces of fluid a day to clear toxin effect of Hydroxyurea? Also, I just read that constipation could be a cause.

Eileen

[Wyebird]

maybe it’s a coincidence