Due to persistent pain and bleeding, I had bowel surgery six years ago. A piece of inflamed intestine was removed. Diagnosis: Ulcerative Colitis. Since last year I have had intestinal complaints again, but now without bleeding and inflammation. It’s in my lower abdomen, rectum and rectum and I mainly suffer from it after defecation. What else can I do? I am a 77 year old woman.
Joris Bartstra, journalist with medical diploma
Ulcerative colitis is limited to the large intestine. Once it has been removed, you will be rid of the disease. If the surgery does not remove your entire colon, the disease can reappear. Furthermore, after such an operation, the abdomen will never be the same again. The intestines will work differently and pain may arise, for example due to adhesions of the peritoneum. Seeing a dietician may be helpful. If you keep having complaints, keep checking. For example, it can be examined whether blood is present in the stool. Your doctor can give practical advice in consultation with the dietitian.
Also a health question? Click here and ask the question to an expert!
