I am writing to ask if anyone out there has had complications following an illeostomy where there is still a high (3X) output from stoma leading to dehydration. I am searching for an answer where the combination of codeine phospate, lomotil, loperimide, fybogel and now questran light hasn't lowered the stoma output significantly. He is in danger of dehydration and has experienced vomiting and headache after taking the questran light which was supposed to bind with bile salts but has been increased to 16 g/day. If anything the latest dosing in addition to the other drugs (see above) has increased urination, and increased the water content of the stoma output (and increased flatulence) He can't go home until the stoma output is around 1000 ml and right now it is over 3000 ml. Has anyone else experienced vomiting, headache from Questran Light and the detrimental effect of increasing urination as well? He has some electrolyte drinks but is still continuing to drink coffee and milk and soda drinks (shaken to remove the bubbles). He is concerned too that there doesn't seem to be an resolution to getting the small intestine working appropriately? This is supposed to be a temporary ileostomy. I would be grateful to hear from people who may have had this problem. Thank you in advance. Best wishes, Valerne ... View more

Hello all, I've been reading people's posts about the caring role of a partner. There is such a helpless/powerless feeling as daily one seeks to understand what may be incomprehensible. How does one not become a 'nagging wife' when you worry? The stress from the diagnosis, to the surgery, and the complications following has been horrendous... Is there a feeling too that for people who are well meaning that they just might not understand that tears and fear are a natural reaction to the trauma of coping with the BIG "C". Sorry, I hope this might make sense...I've become so superstitious these days, not wanting to wear anything black, or to be secure in saying that we can move forward...Hearing one more time, the phrase to 'Stay positive' is a hard one. Is it a process of banning any negative thought as it enters; is it okay to cry in one's private moments? Hey, I've recently joined and I certain appreciate sharing of your insights. Take care and all the best to you and yours.... ... View more

I would like to know what it feels like for other people when they hear the word bowel cancer and they coped in the first weeks. Also would like to hear about decisions people make about whether to have surgery for Stage II bowel cancer w/o chemo & radiotherapy. What do you find most helpful in your support of a loved one when they make decisions about their quality of life. ... View more