What to Expect After UC Surgery

After ulcerative colitis (UC) surgery, you can expect to experience some pain and discomfort. You may also have some bleeding and swelling in the area of your surgery. These are all normal reactions to surgery and should subside within a few weeks.

In addition to these general symptoms, you may also experience some of the following specific symptoms:

* Nausea and vomiting. These are common side effects of anesthesia and pain medication. They should usually go away within a few days.

* Diarrhea. This is a common side effect of UC surgery. It can be caused by a number of factors, including the removal of the colon, inflammation, and infection. Diarrhea should gradually improve over time, but it may take several months to resolve completely.

* Constipation. This is another common side effect of UC surgery. It can be caused by pain medication, dehydration, and changes in diet. Constipation can usually be managed with stool softeners and laxatives.

* Incontinence. This is a temporary loss of control of your bowels. It can occur after UC surgery due to damage to the nerves that control the sphincter muscles. Incontinence usually improves over time, but it may take several months to resolve completely.

* Sexual dysfunction. This can occur after UC surgery due to damage to the nerves that control sexual function. Sexual dysfunction can include erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and vaginal dryness. It is important to talk to your doctor about any sexual problems that you are experiencing after surgery.

* Fatigue. This is a common side effect of surgery and anesthesia. It can last for several weeks or even months.

It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully after UC surgery. This will help to ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications.