Cath Lab Digest

I also had total colectomy with ileostomy and experianced chronic diarrhea from this. In addition to that, I also went on to become a CWOCN. One thing I have found to work both in my clinincal experience and personal experience is the following.

Take a daily fiber suppliment (Psillium Husk) such as Metamucil on a regular basis. There are also generic version of psillium husk, Rite Aid makes one that is cheaper than Metamucil. Do not get confused with Citrucel or Benefiber as these are non psillium husk and do not work as good.

Take 1 tablesoon of fiber (psillium husk) and mix it with a little bit of water (about half or 1/3 of the recommended amount on the label). You want it to become like a pudding, not liquid. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so it can get jelly like. Then eat it with a spoon. Do this up to THREE times a day, until her diarrhea gets under control. If the diarrhea is really bad, you can also add Imodium once or twice a day to your regimen. When the diarrhea has stopped, she can take the fiber once or twice a day if she likes, but if she stops taking it completely, the diarrhea will come back.

Do not get discouraged if the fiber supplement doesn't work immediately. It takes at least 3 days for the fiber to take effect. Initially she will have extra gas and bloating but this will go away after 3-4 days of consistent use.

Since I started taking psillium husk in this manner my problems with dehydration stopped. In addition, you are getting the heart healthy benefits of adding fiber to you diet. I say its worth a shot!