IBS, resection surgery and Imodium

[Natas6]

I had a bowel resection surgery for a cyst about a year ago. They took 13 inches of my bowel out. Some small and some large intestine. I had IBS D before surgery but seemed to manage it by the way I would eat. Since surgery though it comes and goes way more frequently. I just started trying to use Imodium daily which my Dr did was ok. But even with that I seems to still have some loose stools. Has anyone dealt with this or am I just not taking enough Imodium. It really makes doing anything spontaneous or even planned a problem and I’m just want to figure out some type of normal.

[jennnyb012]

Surgery is bound to disturb things, someone’s been rummaging around in your digestive areas. I had an emergency appendectomy followed 18 months later by a hysterectomy and was also all over the place with controlling IBS D. I found using Loperamide 250 mg, which is the main constituent of Imodium, worked for me. One a night and an extra one before travelling or going somewhere I didn’t know worked physically, but also settled the worry of not knowing where the nearest loo is. I also make sure I have a supply of them with me, plus clean underwear and wet wipes. The brain/gut axis is very real, and uncertainty and the fear of having an episode in public is a huge part of the problem. Being as relaxed as possible because you’re prepared, is key. Good luck.

[Natas6 in reply to jennnyb012]

Thanks so much. I have taken one250 mg a day for the last three days and today doesn’t seem that bad. I just didn’t know if my bowels was ever gonna get back to normal and boy do I know that the gut brain connection is real. Whenever I do have a bit of anxiety it always makes my stomach upset. Which makes it worse when I do want to go out and about. Hoping this continues to work. Thanks for your input it’s greatly appreciated.