I am a 5 year colon cancer survivor (diagnosed at 47, surgery removed all of the tumor, no follow-up treatments were needed). About a month ago my sister (56) was diagnosed with a rectal tumor. My surgeon performed her surgery also. He was able to remove the tumor and spare enough of her rectum so that she did not need a bag. At this time he feels she will also be spared any follow-up treatments.
We are both aware of how blessed we are to be alive and to have been spared so much. That said, my sister has come to me with some problems she is having. Because my tumor was higher in the colon, I did not experience the same after effects so I need help from you so I can help her.
She is having problems with her bowel movements. One day she has diarrhea all day long then she can't go at all for several days....even with added fiber and laxatives.
I know it is very soon after her surgery (a little over 2 weeks), what should she be doing? How do you learn to regulate your bowels after surgery like this? She's afraid to leave her house.
Thanks for the help,
Martha