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Ileo-Pouch Anal Anastomosis Guide
Pouchitis
As time passes, about 50% of patients with an ileoanal procedure have something called pouchitis. It can happen at any time, even months or years following your surgery.
Pouchitis is characterized by an increase in stool frequency, perhaps feeling much like you have the flu with muscle aches. The stool may be somewhat bloody and it will be looser. You may even have the return of symptoms of arthritis or skin abnormalities, if you had them prior to your initial operation.
Pouchitis is something that we feel comfortable in identifying over the phone and will recommend an oral antibiotic to correct the problem. If our diagnosis is accurate, the symptoms should go away in 72 to 96 hours.
Dehydration
Dehydration is the loss of too much fluid from the body (more output of fluid than intake). It is important that you carefully balance fluid intake so as not to become dehydrated.
When the colon has been removed, less water and electrolytes will be absorbed and more will pass through the body. Gradually, your small intestine will take over more of the function of absorption. You will notice stool thickening as absorption increases.
Loose, liquid stools can be the result of certain foods, viruses, medications or even emotional stress. Dehydration occurs when you have increased stool output and do not adequately replace the lost fluids.
Signs of dehydration:
- Feeling thirsty
- Dry skin and/or dry mouth
- Decreased urination and dark-colored urine
- Feeling lightheaded when sitting or standing
If you are dehydrated, you need to drink extra fluid and replace lost electrolytes, sodium and potassium. Electrolyte drinks, broth and bananas are good sources for replenishment.
Blockage
Blockage of the bowels is rare, but does occur. None of the signs of blockage are subtle, and they are often described as miserable. Those signs and symptoms include nausea and vomiting (for more than 24 hours), abdominal cramping, pain, bloating, and decrease in bowel activity.
You will need to stop eating and drinking immediately. Call our office and/or go to your nearest emergency room. Although you may feel miserable, these blockages usually resolve themselves within 72 hours.
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