Sigmoid Colon Removed for Diverticulitis

1. Maddi 1 February 2012 at 21:24PM
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   I had elective surgery in March 2011 to remove my sigmoid colon which contained a mass of problematic diverticulae. I was told by medical staff that at the age of 46 it was unusual to see so much! However, because I have always enjoyed a healthy diet, it was agreed that my condition was very likely due to excessive stress. Has anyone else been advised of the same?

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2. marymac 10 February 2012 at 18:44PM

   Maddi - i was most interested to read your report of your sigmoid removal particularly the view that the complaint was stress related. could you please describe your symptons which led to the removal of your sigmoid colon . i am undergoing tests currently. thank you v much

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3. Maddi 19 February 2012 at 20:43PM

   Hi! Marymac... Problems with the digestive system can be caused by many conditions and it would be wrong to cause you any undue concern at this stage regarding your ongoing tests. Stress can be related to many different digestive disorders and quit often can aggrevate a condition although it hasn't caused the problem. I would suggest that you wait for the results of your tests and any outcome... then you can study that particular condition, be it diverticulitis, IBS, etc. Any pain/discomfort is going to cause concern but, be assured that your GP and any other professionals will advise you of the best course of treatment for your particular situation. In the meantime, take care of yourself : )

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4. marymac 20 February 2012 at 08:04AM

   Dear Maddi

   thank you so much for your upbeat reply - it is just what I need right now. I will heed your advice and wait until some sort of diagosis has been made.

   thanks a lot

   marymac

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5. gailehughes 31 May 2012 at 16:55PM

   I was diagnosed 18mnths ago with diverticular disease and was told to eat high fibre, which I already was. I also have a constriction in my bowel, which they have offered to cut out if the problems become too much. I never get the urge to go any more, I just have to sit and wait for it to happen which is not good for my prize winning piles!

   I have found drinking wheatgrass helpful in keeping me regular, but not the most palatable of things to take - must have it in orange juice and drink whilst holding nose

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6. Maddi 2 June 2012 at 16:06PM

   Hi! If it's any help at all... I was told that the surgeons found my bowl was constricted adjoining the rectum and that this was due to scar tissue from previous abdominal surgery.

   As for wheatgrass... I've never used it, preferring to use lactoluse (prescribed / counter) which, I have been advised to take: x1 teaspoon every other night.

   Also, whenever I experience a particularly difficult time (as I still do) with going to the toilet... I go on a white / low residue diet consisting of white bread, rice, etc. Poached fish, mashed potato, etc. This allows the bowel to rest as it can be prone to going into spasm when there are weaknesses which, can be aggrevated when taking to much fibre content.

   My greatest disappointment is that I'm not able to eat vast quantities of chocolate anymore!! My bowl simply wont allow it!!

   Finally, the reason I had surgery was because I developed diverticulitis which, is when the diverticulae become infected and inflammed... It's a disease which, cannot be cured, only managed. Good luck : )

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7. gailehughes 2 June 2012 at 16:44PM

   Lactulose oils everything going through whereas wheatgrass is full of enzymes, chlorophyll, minerals, and highly concentrated vitamins.

   One of the main wheatgrass benefits is chlorophyll, that has a chance to draw toxins in you body just like a magnet. Considered as the “blood of plants”, chlorophyll can heal and soothe inner tissues. The chlorophyll in wheatgrass has elevated levels of light energy and oxygen, which could supply the body tissues and the brain by having an optimal environment to function. The chlorophyll in wheatgrass also offers antibacterial property, which could stop the growth of parasites in your body.

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8. juliajean 19 July 2012 at 15:38PM

   hi everyone i have been told i have multiple diverticular in the sigmoid section. this after having many camera exams. told to eat more fruit and fibre. joined slimming world to lose some weight ate healthy foods lots of fruit and veg but i have only emptied my bowel once in this week i have pain and i have taken milpar to help but no joy. i hav'nt lost any weight.

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9. gailehughes 19 July 2012 at 16:21PM

   Recently I have upped my exercise regime and have been opening my bowels at least once a day - we have put a bicycle/cross trainer in the dining room and I try to cycle at least 10k a day. It's made an enormous difference - I have severe back problems and this machine is low impact and comfortable to use.

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10. juliajean 20 July 2012 at 00:31AM

    unfortuateley i am disabled and have difficulty exercising or would do this. but thanks as i know it would hel. i have had two operations on my spine. i am back to see my specialist on the 3rd august i will seewhat he can advise as well. but he did say fruit and vegetables plus he gave me a laxative to take morning and night but nothing moving yet.

    thankyou.

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