GI Issues related to shunt revision?

[KathiDG]

Hi guys...I need some help again. I've been sick with ummm...bathroom issues...for the last 4 days now. It seems every time I've been lying down and my torso is twisted, like if I'm lying on my side watching TV, I get runs (SO SORRY FOR THE GRAPHIC, but I really need to figure this out), it's been happening pretty much all day every day...plus I get these like..gas pains in the pelvic/hip area. I don't remember having this right away after surgery, it just developed and is starting to scare me because of going on for 4 days now. Has anyone had this and it's been related to the shunt surgery? Like maybe an absorbtion problem? I haven't had this with a shunt surgery before, but then again, the last time I was 5 and don't remember much. I'm just hoping to GOD that it's not the shunt having problems draining into the peritoneum...I'll DIE if I have to get an LP or VA. I'm nervous because I did have gastric bypass about a yr ago, so my stomach and intestines are already sort of messed up from that (but it has to be or I won't be able to digest food)...my fear is that the shunt tubing is maybe messing with the intestines or colon...

[Spiritgal]

Hi Kathi,

Sorry to hear you're suffering...that's awful! Interestingly, I've had problems recently too with food and digestion since my VP operation...but once I was violently sick after eating (developed gassy pains like you described first) and yesterday I wasn't sick but got the terrible pains again, all around the shunt area. Not sure if the two are connected at all but like you, I never had these problems before. I'm going to give it a couple more days then ring my NS. If your problem has been going on for 4 days, you definately should speak to your doctor at least, pronto...better still your NS. It's always better to be safe than sorry with any new shunt issue that is bothering you. And make sure you drink LOADS of fluids...your body can become seriously dehydrated with the runs. Let me know what happens...thinking of you!