Colostomy And Side Effects

I have had colorectal cancer surgery, turned out to be peritoneal cancer. Results have been positive. Have had a colostomy for several months which is supposed to be reversed in near future. Recently they found a pinpoint hole in the colon section that were sutured. It has reduced in size on its own and we are giving it another few weeks and see if it will heal completely on its own. If not surgery will be done.

My question is I have a rectal discharge occasionally, and sometimes more frequently in spite of the colostomy. is this normal? I can't seem to get a straight answer. If you have similar experience please share it with me.

Thanks, Brigitte

Hi Brigitte,
I had surgery for colon cancer in 1998 and had a colostomy for about 4 months. During that time, I also had some rectal discharge that used to drive me crazy. I also could not get straight answers from any of the many doctors that I was seeing. It was as if nobody really knew what it was all about anyway. I had the colostomy reversed and all went well. That was 6 years ago and I am still doing fine and have had no problems re” the rectal discharge. So carry on like you are doing, quit worrying and soon you will be back to normal again. Take care and my prayers are with you.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR RESPONSE AND YOUR PRAYERS. IT MADE ME FEEL A WHOLE LOT BETTER.

I know what you are experiencing. My father had rectal cancer also -- and has a colostomy. This was 10 years ago. He is fine and well today but was not able to have his colostomy reversed.
He did however have rectal drainage for about 2 months after surgery even though his rectum was completely sutured shut. This did stop and he was fine. Take care-god bless.
Nancy

I have had surgery for ovarian cancer three times and my latest surgery (June 2005) resulted in a colostomy. I have had a mucus rectal discharge on and off for about two months but lately it seems as if it is heavier. Should I worry?

I had a discharge as well off and on for the time I had a colostomy. I believe that it is normal, my doctor told me not to worry about it. I found that it happened on days when I ate a lot.I just had mine reversed in July 2005. Hope to be of some help. Mia.

I have a permanent colostomy for three months now and am having a tough time. I get severe stomach cramps every couple of weeks and was hospitalized once. They thought it was blockage... but not. I don't know if it's the food and/or my chemo and radiation treatments that is causing the cramps. Anyone out there with similar situations that could shed some guidance. Thanks!

Anne