Home Blog Resources What is Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS)? What is Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS)? January 31, 2022 • By Fight CRC Resources Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on Twitter Copy this URL Share via Email One type of treatment that can be effective for curing colorectal cancer is low anterior resection surgery, but this surgery may also cause low anterior resection syndrome, also known as LARS. The surgery itself involves removing portions of the colon containing cancer cells and connecting the remaining parts of the colon, leaving only healthy cells. Rectal cancer patients may undergo resection of part, or the entire, rectum (the last 6-8 inches of the large intestine), which can lead to a collection of symptoms known as Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS). About LARS Low anterior resection syndrome can occur after resection surgery to the lower part of the colon. After the resection or removal of the part of the rectum containing cancer cells, your surgeon will perform an anastomosis, or “hook up,” of the colon. Anastomosis means that the two remaining ends of the large intestine and the rectum are sewn or stapled back together, resulting in a shorter colon, which leads to the symptoms that make up LARS. Symptoms With such a major surgery, side effects are not surprising. LARS refers to several related symptoms that patients may experience post-surgery. The symptoms of low anterior resection surgery are different for everyone, but could include: Frequency or urgency of stools, largely due to the fact you have less space to store stool after removing part of the rectumClustering of stools (many bowel movements during a few hours)Fecal incontinence (lack of control over bowel movements)Constipation for more than a few days, followed by multiple bowel movements a few days laterIncreased gasAbdominal painSmall risk of urinary and/or sexual function due to nerve damage “My surgeon explained the possibility of LARS symptoms as a quality of life issue after ileostomy reversal. I had no idea how difficult it would be during the first two years and it took some time to accept that even though it would improve some, it was a permanent issue.” -Kelly, stage III colorectal cancer survivor Many survivors report symptoms of lower anterior resection syndrome can interfere with daily living and reduce their quality of life. While many patients experience these side effects diminish with time, some experts believe that if LARS symptoms exist at one-year post-surgery (or stoma closure), they are likely to continue to exist 10 years later. Managing Low Anterior Resection Syndrome There are ways to manage LARS, but finding the right regimen can be challenging, as management is extremely individualized: What works for one person may not work for another. Here’s a list of some ways people manage: Kegel exercises Kegels can help strengthen muscles. To do this, tighten your muscles like you are trying to hold back a bowel movement. Hold this position for 5 to 10 seconds. Release and rest. Repeat. Medicines Use medications and over-the-counter drugs to help with incontinence (Imodium for clustering, Metamucil® as a fiber supplement, for example). Stool training and biofeedback These are non-surgical therapies that can retrain your muscles to manage bowel dysfunction like fecal incontinence and constipation. Essentially, you learn through reinforcement how to train the muscles in your bowel to normalize function. To learn more about biofeedback, watch our webinar on using physical therapy to manage colorectal cancer symptoms. Carrying a survival pack You never know when you might need one! Consider including flushable wipes, clean underwear, plastic bags, hand sanitizer, butt paste, etc. Counseling For some, talking about the challenges that result from LARS can really help ease stress and shift the focus to other things in life. Low Anterior Resection Syndrome Diet Dietary changes can help prevent urgency and incontinence. Here are some to consider: Eat small, frequent meals (skipping meals can cause increased gas)Drink plenty of fluids slowlyEat foods help slow and firm up stool including, white rice, pasta, bread, pretzels, tapioca, marshmallows, peanut butter, bananas, potatoes, and yogurtAvoid foods that cause gas, including, carbonated beverages, beer, dairy products, nuts, and certain vegetables (such as cabbage, spinach, cucumbers, broccoli, cauliflower, onions, beans, and corn) For more diet tips, read out blog about Eating with LARS. The First Steps for Lower Anterior Resection Syndrome According to Dr. Jonathan Mitchem who works in the Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology at the University of Missouri School of Medicine, the first step to managing LARS is to start simple. Start with dietary changes, like eating more fiber, and incorporate medications to manage incontinence. Following these lifestyle changes, Dr. Mitchem recommends trying to incorporate other management strategies, such as probiotics, pelvic floor physical therapy, and rectal irrigation. After your low anterior resection surgery, it is extremely important to talk to your doctors about any symptoms you experience, and to keep them updated even as you move into recurrence monitoring. Your doctors can work with you to find ways to manage symptoms of LARS. These could include the suggestions listed above, and even forms of safe integrative medicine like acupuncture. While there is no proven “cure” for LARS, don’t give up! Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome Facebook Group One of the best resources for patients living with LARS is the Facebook group "Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome." In this group, patients tell-all about side effects, products that help LARS symptoms, routines like irritation, and more. Request to join the LARS Facebook group. More information about LARS About Your Low Anterior Resection SurgeryLong Term Functional Results after Laparoscopic Low Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer. Our Resource Library is full of medically-reviewed, trustworthy materials for you to read, download or request in print! Medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Mitchem, Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology University of Missouri School of Medicine 65 thoughts on “What is Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS)?” This message is for Dee, I hope your surgery went well and you are ok 👍 Perry Hi to you all , I’m in the UK . I had colon cancer 2018. I was contacted by a research group here in UK called POLARiS , Pathway of Low Anterior Resection Syndrome relief after Sugery. I have just ( 9 days ago 25 November 2022) been fitted with a SACRAL NERVE STIMULATION DEVICE Hi Perry, thank you so much for sharing. Here’s the link for people in the UK for a LARS clinical trial that is currently still recruiting. I have stage 2 rectal cancer and is scheduled to do LAR surgery in 2 weeks. Reading the comments scares me. I feel relatively normal right now but it seems my QoL will take a nosedive once the knife touches me, and might be miserable for years or the rest of my life. Now I am reluctant about the surgery. I wonder if anyone opted not to do surgery in my shoes (stage2) and how it looks down the road. Hi Dee, Thank you for your comment. We’re unable to provide medical advice, so please have this conversation with your medical team and be sure to discuss all your concerns. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Attached is the link for a private Facebook “Living With Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” group which may assist you in answering your questions since the members of this group have firsthand experience. Wishing you all the best. I was just diagnosed with Rectal Cancer. I’m told they’re removing 80% of my Rectum. I’m in the research stage and learning a ton. So far it appears that the Surgery is the ‘easy’ part vs. life afterward. Hi Joey, We’re unable to provide medical advice, so please be sure to have this conversation with your medical team. We’re attaching the link for a private Facebook “Living With Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” group which may assist you in your research since this group has firsthand experience. Wishing you all the best in your research. I am, like so ,many here, struggling for years with the constant and ongoing problems of LARS. I have had a sacral nerve stimulator system for the past 4 years and it has helped a bit- but hey any improvement is better than none. Every day continues to be an exhausting challenge and what it is so disappointing is that the very people who should be willing and able to help ( the colorectal team) are still pretty clueless when it comes to LARS – I suspect that most of us disappear from their view and we retreat to living a very restricted life compared to what we had … but as more and more patients are diagnosed younger… we still have to go to work every day and pay our mortgages etc so we have to be able to go back to a better level of functionality – we can’t just disappear from view, and retreat from life .. as tempting as that is on the worst of days !!! Hi Kate, Thanks for sharing. We understand that LARS impacts quality of life and is exhausting and frustrating to live with. You are not alone. LARS is a frustrating issue for so many people, and although we are unable to provide medical advice, we work continuously to provide resources to help. When we know there is support, we guide and direct you because no on fights alone. This private Facebook group Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome provides valuable support and encouragement from patients to patients with tips and suggestions that have helped them navigate life post-surgery. Here are also other Fight CRC LARS resources with podcast and blog posts. Don’t disappear from view or retreat from life. You are a survivor! Live life out loud. Please check back with us to let us know how you are doing. Nine years post ileostomy reversal, and I deal with LARS daily. Clustering, constipation, diarrhea, multiple BMs lasting all day, burning, sore anus. Using wipes is much better than toilet tissue. Have a backpack on wheels that goes with me everywhere with Depends, changes of clothing, wipes, ziplock bags for waste disposal, puppy pee pads to stand on while cleaning myself and changing to clean clothes. I’ve resigned myself to this new normal, and am thankful to be alive and enjoying my eleven grandchildren. Hi Joy, You are not alone. LARS is a frustrating issue for so many people, and although we are unable to provide medical advice, we work continuously to provide resources to help. When we know there is support, we guide and direct you because no on fights alone. This private Facebook group Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome provides valuable support. Here are also other Fight CRC LARS resources in podcast and blog posts. I wish I could go back in time and keep my ileostomy bag. Prior to the closure I debated long and hard as I was feeling the best I had in years. I’ve been dealing with Lars for over 6 years and rue my decision everyday. So for anyone debating getting the reversal please take this into consideration. The bag is inconvenient and awkward at times, but if you are feeling good then why open yourself up to the possibility of dealing with Lars for the rest of your life? Hi Bill, We are so sorry to hear your of your ongoing LARS issues. Please know you are not alone. We do not provide medical advice, and we recommend you have this conversation with your healthcare team. Everyone’s situation is unique, so please talk with your healthcare team who can better guide and assist you. Perhaps this private Facebook site, “Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” which provides colorectal cancer community support, encouragement, advice, and tips, may be helpful. Please be aware we are recommending this Facebook page, not for medical advice, but we want you to connect with others like yourself who have faced similar issues. A few people on this site discussed transitioning to a permanent colostomy for relief from LARS, so please know this is a supportive community who faces the same frustrations and challenges that you do. Finally, please find the link for some LARS resources, which we hope are helpful. ..my wife is 8 mos post ileostomy reversal and her LARS isn’t getting better..if anything getting worse. She’s lost over 20 lbs and can’t gain any of it back. She often avoids eating so her rectum/anus can heal from painful BMs. We have discussed a permanent colostomy to regain quality of life. We would like to hear from others who have chosen that route. In many ways it seems having the bag may not be great but would allow mobility and freedom whereas LARS certainly does not. Thank you and many thanks for this forum! God bless! Hi Gavin, We are so sorry to hear your wife is having LARS issues. Thank you for your comment. We do not provide medical advice, and we recommend you have this conversation with your healthcare team. Everyone’s situation is unique, so please talk with your healthcare team who can better guide and assist you. Perhaps you or your wife can join this private Facebook site, “Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” which provides colorectal cancer community support, encouragement, advice, and tips, which may be helpful. Please be aware we are recommending this Facebook page, not for medical advice, but we want you to connect with others like yourself and your wife who have faced similar issues or decisions. Also, please find the link for some LARS resources, which we hope are helpful. I am 9 years post reconnection; serious damage was done due to post cancer surgery infection. The first 6 years went quite well, except for constipation. The past three years have been miserable with LARS – pain, lack of bowel control, constipation, clustering. My single question: Will going back to a colostomy relieve all of these LARS issues? Hi Dennis, We do not provide medical advice, and we recommend you have this conversation with your healthcare team. Everyone’s situation is unique, so please talk with your healthcare team who can better guide and assist you. There is a private Facebook site “Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” which provides support, tips, encouragement, and advice, which may be helpful in addition to speaking with your healthcare team. Please be aware we are recommending this Facebook page, not for medical advice, but we want you to connect with others like yourself who have faced similar issues or decisions. Also, please find the link for a podcast on LARS, and a few blogs, which talk about LARS, which may be helpful. One month ileostomy surgery can I say it is easy when it acts up it is torture anus gets inflamed and feels like hell but Enemas do work. Still trying to find out what to do when stool clusters, If anybody could help most appreciated Hi Robert, we’re sorry to hear that you are having so many problems related to LARS. You are not alone. Everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another person. We recommend you talk with your healthcare provider and discuss your problems and issues with them. They may be able to provide you with suggestions and options. Our Beyond Blue The Food Issue may be a helpful resource. Also, there is private Facebook group (Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome) that may be worth checking out for support and suggestions: https://www.facebook.com/groups/7865556748 My op was November 2011 and my reversal April 2012. How I wish there had been forums like this. I knew nothing about LARS and was not told anything. Overall I am glad I had the reversal. I had so many problems with the bag. However it was at least 6 years b4 anything like getting better. I have had all the problems discussed and it still isn’t as it was. I stilI have problems. I was told sometime after the reversal not to expect things to be as they were. By then everything had been done. The conclusion really is not 2 expect having a reversal will put things back to as they were. Raymond, thank you so much for sharing your experience. 6 Days post stoma reversal after a Utra Low LAR in July of 2021. Feeling kind of nervous about the journey ahead. Having about 25 – 30 BM’s in a 24 Hr period. Thank you all for your post and Good Luck to everyone! Hi Jonathan: Thanks for your reply. Please know that no one fights alone! We offer support through Your Guide in the Fight Resource Meetups are free online gatherings for people affected by colorectal cancer seeking access to resources and peer-to-peer support. The next Resource Meetup is Thursday, May 12, 2022, at noon ET. We have more helpful resources on LARS, as well as a food issue of Beyond Blue: Blog: Ambassador Michael Tomko’s Experience with LARS Podcast: LARS: A Survivor’s Perspective Q&A with a provider: Eating with LARS Provider Perspective Q&A with a survivor: LARS Q&A with Survivor Terry Elliott Hi. I see a lot of comments here that are answered at a LARS facebook group Living With LARS. Please check in there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lwlars Lots of people including me are having great results with enema irrigation, bidets, diaper rash treatments, and diet. I’m mixing two types of fiber and seeing great progress – an odd concept – I am fully aware… Others sing the praises of Physical Therapy work or Pacemaker implants that help us re-circuit the muscles that are there but nerve damage from surgery or radiation render them useless. My resection was c. 2018. I was unable to find any help until late 2021… but help is out there. Find what works for you… we are all (unfortunately) different in our experiences – which is why Drs. have no clue on how to prepare us… but there is a way – it takes time to figure the new you out. But it’s worth it. Good luck people! Hi David, Thank you for your comment. We agree: Results are so individual, and there is no “one-size-fits-all option” unfortunately. But you are right: Help is out there, and everyone needs to find what works for them based on their own experiences. Is it better to keep the iliostomy bag and choose not to have resection surgery or live the nightmare after corrective surgery and never be active again? Hi M, I’m sorry that you are facing this question. Definitely have this conversation with your healthcare provider and medical team since your concerns deserve to be heard and discussed with those involved in your care. It is absolutely possible to remain active after surgery. It may look differently for you than it has in the past. Again, speaking with your provider may help you learn options and what to expect. Our Spring 2022 Beyond Blue issue contains the stories of colorectal cancer survivors Ben Moon and Teri Griege. As athletes, they haven’t let anything—including stage III and stage IV cancer, respectively—get in their way. Read how they stay motivated to keep going, continue pushing limits, and not give up on hope. Very interesting question M. After 12 days of more than hourly diarrhea in hospital after my Loop Ileostomy closure, I wanted my stoma back! But I do know there are people out there much worse off than me. There is great help and support around, and to know that you are not alone often helps. I am a month removed from my reversal and have had a horrible time with BMs. Sometimes going every 5 minutes with no sleep all night and this leads to severe pain in the rectum. I can not do the normal things in life that I am accustom too and it is very frustrating mentally and physically. This literally has been the worst year of my life, and to think I was happy about being in remission. Hi John, You are not alone. LARS is a frustrating issue for so many people, and it was the main topic of our most recent Resource Meetup. While we do not record these meetings since there is the potential for highly sensitive information to be shared, we have two meetings a month, so there are many more opportunities to join us! Our next one will be March 22 at 4:30pm EST. LARS (Low Anterior Resection Syndrome) is a topic that resonates. Here are some resources that may be helpful from our site: Blog- What is Low Anterior Resection Syndrome? Blog- Ambassador Michael Tomko’s Experience with LARS Podcast- LARS: A Survivor’s Perspective Q&A with a provider- Eating with LARS Provider Perspective Q&A with a survivor- LARS Q&A with Survivor Terry Elliott Finally, our fall 2021 issue of Beyond Blue was all about Food. Hi, I have stage 3 cancer of the rectum, with a LAR op due in 2 weeks after having the 8 week break after radio/chemo pre surgery treatment. I asked my surgeon what will happen to my BM after my stoma reversal surgery, he said you will go back to a completely normal life, there may be some differences, your brain just has to readjust. But what I am reading here tells me a very different story, LARS, never mentioned in any talks with the specialists, nurses, or in any cancer council booklets. I am already terrified by the notion that I have cancer in the first place, I am a fit, healthy 47 year old. Exercise, eat well, always active, never smoked, don’t drink, no family history of bowel cancer! The pre surgery radio/chemo, surgery, stoma, then 4 months of intravenous chemo are a great shock! Now I am worried about more long term issues as stated here. Ewa, You will do great and bounce back! Not everyone has LARS as a result. The good news is that there is help/solutions for any side-effects. Nobody has to live with uncontrollable bowels, even if they have LARS. For those with LARS, t’s just a matter of finding the underlying cause (e.g. infection, bacteria overgrowth, tailored diet, strategies for emptying/having BM’s, etc.). You have so much going for you with your prior good health…You will do great in surgery and have positive outcomes and a speedy recovery! Hi Ewa – thanks for sharing your story! Make sure to talk to your doctor about LARS. They may even recommend a physical therapist to help pre and post surgery. Thanks Kas, Sharyn, for your positive words. I am doing everything possible to be fighting fit for the op. My Bowel cancer nurse, when asked, did say that gastro stop would be necessary, at least initially after reversal of the stoma, whenever I wished to leave the house for any length of time. In ten days out after my ileostomy reversal after my rectum removal surgery in July. You’ll do fine. Trust your doctor and look to online communities for support. And give it time… Recovery from this phase is tough but very doable. Load up on barrier cream, soft wipes and Metamucil for the first couple weeks. It’s all manageable but don’t expect to be normal for a while. You will improve. I am 10 months out from my resection surgery. They told me the bowel issues would hopefully get better after chemo was complete. That has been almost 4 months ago and it has not gotten better. It has gotten worse. I have multiple BM’S just about everyday. There is no rhyme or reason to them. I can’t go anywhere or do anything unless I take something to clogged me up then I pay for it later. The pain towards the end 9f the cycle of BM’S is so bad I have to take pain meds. These cycles can come anytime of the day or night. I had a follow up CT and that came out good. I have another colonoscopy this week. I’m so thankful that I’m clean so far but this bathroom issue is horrendous. It feels like you can’t make people understand when you tell them you can’t go somewhere or do something g when you’re having a bad day. Now I’m breaking out in hives from something. I used to be such a control freak and now I can’t seem to control anything. All of this really messes with your head. Karen, Find a good GI doctor who can test you for SIBO (it’s a breath test) which is a bacteria overgrowth in your gut that hinders proper digestion which can be the source of multiple BMs per day. You may have to weed through a few doctors as I found that most GI doctors only cared about CT scans & colonoscopies fearing cancer had returned and ignored my concern about my gut problems and uncontrollable BMs. I had to really push to find a dr. who would focus on helping find the source of the problem behind the uncontrollable BMs so I could resume life? Most want to say it’s because of LARS (damage from the surgery & treatment) and not offer any real solution. Also, do a stool test from Genova Diagnostics which offers an in-depth evaluation on what’s really going on in your gut (e.g. it tests for gut infections that a typical GI dr. doesn’t test). It’s worth the money out of pocket! Check Genova’s website for lists of doctors near you that offer the test. Often times a gut infection (treatable through an antibiotic like Metronidazole/Flagyl) leads to SIBO and both can be treated which will tremendously help reduce/eliminate having multiple BM’s (uncontrolled) a day. The diet for SIBO will also help reduce the pain & bloating. Note: it’s misleading when you are having multiple BM’s a day to think you may be constipated but chances are, you are constipated caused by SIBO-C so once you get that emptied (through antibiotic if there’s an infection, diet plan for SIBO-C and an enema if need be) you will start to have a more normal life within ~ 2 weeks and have only a few BM’s per day, controlled. Below are a few things that have helped me after stage 3 colorectal treatment which included chemo, radiation, complete resection of entire rectum, ileostomy bag for 6 months, ileostomy reversal. For almost 3 years after ileostomy reversal, I had fecal incontinence 20-30 times per day (plus flatulence incontinence so I had to resign from my job). I used anti-diarrhea meds which made things worse. Later found out I had an infection in my gut plus vaginal infection. I also had symptoms similar to SIBO-C (Sibo-Constipation). Treatment: 1. Antibiotic for infections: Flagyl; the infection(s) were causing what I thought was diarrhea; in reality I was so constipated that diarrhea formed around the impacted stool; –Enemas can help kick off initial clean out: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Enema-Bucket-Set-w-Castile-Soap-Gentle-L-Care-1500-mL-1-Each/497039918 2. SIBO-C: went on strict diet and STOPPED taking probiotics; I found this diet online which has been a lifesaver: https://www.siboinfo.com/uploads/5/4/8/4/5484269/low_fermentation_diet.pdf 3. Oregano Oil: 3 capsules / day (to reduce the overgrowth of bacteria which cause severe, uncontrollable flatulence). Reducing the bacteria also has aided in having “formed” sufficient BM’s (1-3x/day). I like Natural Factors Oil of Oregano softgels 80% carvacrol; reduce quantity if causes diarrhea 4. In morning, strong cup of french roast coffee, Peet’s ground is best if you can find it in your grocery store (add in 2 Tbsp butter + 1 tsp coconut oil; fat = helps constipation) plus 2 peppermint oil capsules. Goal is to have a large bowel movement in the a.m. to avoid further BM’s during the day + it reduces flatulence. Mike Parkes, there is a LowerAnterior Resection Syndrome Facebook page. It would be great if you would become a member and share that info of things too have tried with others, if you already have not. There is a Facebook page called Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome. Answer the questions which asks if you have LARS and you will be admitted to this closed Facebook group. It is a wealth of information and support. It is so helpful to know I am not alone in dealing with LARS I take immodium, and then I might be stopped up for a day or two; then I will go for at least an hour and continues for hours, I am 7 months after reversal. Any hints would be great Below are a few things that have helped me after stage 3 colorectal treatment which included chemo, radiation, complete resection of rectum, ileostomy bag for 6 months, ileostomy reversal. For almost 3 years, I had fecal incontinence 20-30 times per day (plus flatulence incontinence so I had to resign from my job). I used anti-diarrhea meds which made things worse. Later found out I had an infection in my gut plus vaginal infection. I also had symptoms similar to SIBO-C (Sibo-Constipation). Treatment: 1. Antibiotic for infections: Flagyl; the infection(s) were causing what I thought was diarrhea; in reality I was so constipated that diarrhea formed around the impacted stool 2. SIBO-C: went on strict diet and STOPPED taking probiotics; I found this diet online which has been a lifesaver: https://www.siboinfo.com/uploads/5/4/8/4/5484269/low_fermentation_diet.pdf 3. Oregano Oil: 3 capsules / day (to reduce the overgrowth of bacteria which cause severe, uncontrollable flatulence). Reducing the bacteria also has aided in having “formed” sufficient BM’s (1-3x/day). I like Natural Factors Oil of Oregano softgels 80% carvacrol 4. In morning, strong cup of french roast coffee, Peet’s ground is best if you can find it in your grocery store (add in 2 Tbsp butter + 1 tsp coconut oil; fat = helps constipation) plus 2 peppermint oil capsules. Goal is to have a large bowel movement in the a.m. to avoid further BM’s during the day + it reduces flatulence. This is an excellent thread. I am now 7 months post reversal and my mobility and overall QoL is much restricted by LARS in the ways variously described here. I am exploring LARRIS – Rectal Irrigation for Lars via a Peristeen system researched by Dr Grace McCutchan in Cardiff UK but I am also thinking about surgery to install a permanent colostomy: thoughts appreciated. I live in Vancouver, Canada and am 78yrs. Pleased to be alive. I’m 4 years out from my reconnection and have daily issues.Having my rectum and most of my colon removed doesn’t give my stool enough time to dry out and compact so the majority of the time it is more of a liquid state. Metamucil helps thicken the stool and Lomotil/Imodium help slow down the process so the stool has more time to firm up. Also irrigation with a Fleet bottle helps rinse fragments out of the colon and cleans any fluids away from the anus which causes the burning and discomfort. Use luke warm tap water and lubricate the tip for insertion.It may take 2-3 times before you notice the discharge becoming cleaner. I’ve noticed in the past 6 months things getting better but it’s a slow and arduous process. Be patient….take your Metamucil everyday… and get some exercise! Remember..your alive..and this is your new “norm”. You are right on! I have been 1 1/2 yrs out and have issues. Couldn’t explain it any better than you have. Time is everything. Lisa Spot on. I never knew there is a name for it. LARS! I have had it for ten years. I try not to let it control my life. Just be patient with yourself. Mike Parkes, very interested in what you are doing. I am 16 months post reversal. Though things are better, I am not where I want to be. There is a LARS Facebook page, too, for people like us to,share things we have done that could be helpful to others. I’m 6 years out and I HAVE to have; what we call an emergency bag in every vehicle. There isn’t any warning. I carry in each emergency bag wipes, recticare, diaper, sweats, and over the counter liquid anti diarrhea medicine. I carry a prescription bottle of lomotil with me everywhere I go. If I know we’ll be out for most of the day I will take prescription anti diarrhea medicine. I’ll do it if going to see a movie as well. Nothing sucks more than having to go to the bathroom during it. I can end up on toilet for 2 hours anytime I have a bowel movement due to actively having bowel movements. Hi Becky, having an ’emergency bag’ sounds like a great tip. Thanks for sharing! I am a 34 year old female and am 2 years post ileostomy take down. I had nothing but problems after my reconnection. I couldn’t urinate on my own and had a cath the first 6 weeks post surgery, followed by two weeks of self catheterizarion, before I regained that ability. Once I was cleared to have sex again, we realized the issues weren’t just limited to going to the bathroom, but also to intercourse (pain and dryness). I’ve seen countless specialists, went to pelvic floor physical therapy, tried hormone therapies, etc., and nothing has helped. I’ve done plenty of research on everything colorectal cancer related and this is the first I’ve ever heard about LARS. Would love to chat with any other ladies who may be experiencing the same issues as I am. This is my first time reading all of this. I am 7 months post ileostomy reversal. My surgeons office mentioned this condition when I described my symptoms but really didn’t go into it. I feel better that I’m not alone but I truly was hoping this was temporary now I’m not so sure. Four and a half years after my LAR I still have LARS. Grateful to be alive, but it’s a “new” life and definitely not easy. Oddly enough, I moved to Mexico and thought that my LARS would get worse, but it’s gotten MUCH better. Different food? Less stressful environment? Who knows but I’m hoping it continues to improve. I was offered the low anterior resection or APR surgery with a permanent colostomy for my Stage IV rectal cancer. I chose the APR surgery for two reasons: 1) to help prevent a local recurrence, and 2) to have a known outcome with a known quality of life rather than risk being incontinent or experiencing LARS. That was almost 3 years ago.I don’t regret my decision, and I am NED. For me, it was the right decision. Thanks for sharing, Jane. It’s great to hear you were such an active participant in treatment decision making – it’s SO important. I have this but i didnt know it was common with that type of surgery. So glad to know iam not alone! I am 13 months from my LAR surgery. I suffer daily with LARS. In addition my bladder stopped working after the surgery. I have been dealing with not being able to void on my own. I feel like I am at my ropes end. Mentally this is so hard. I want to he normal again. I want to be able to go for a drive or get on an airplane without constant fear. I want to not have to leave a conversation or finish a 30 minute TV show without having to go to the bathroom. I want my life back. My LARS was complicated by BAM (bile acid malabsorption/diarrhea ) and SIBO (small intestine bacteria overgrowth). BAM d/t gall bladder removal during initial LAR surgery & ablation/resection of liver mets. Diarrhea now pretty well controlled by Prevalite (there are others) & diet. SIBO from ileostomy & reversal. Treated with antibiotic. I went for over a year being told it was LARS, then a smart gastro put it all together. So ask about these possibilities. Life is not normal but profoundly improved. Wow, thank you for sharing your story, Linda! I just hit five years out last week. Unfortunately, I deal with the symptoms of LARS every single day. I still haven’t given up hope that something will come along to help manage the symptoms. Excellent! I am struggling in Vancouver Canada with LARS four months post reversal. My goal is to travel back to England each year for a couple of months. Keep up this great research and communication. David Thanks David, safe travels! Adriana..Hang in there…. I like the look of this forum. Mike New Zealand Yes….. I had an ultra low LAR with reconnection May 2016. Pretty well lost most of my rectum. Also had real anastomosis stricture issues and have been surgically stretched twice. Now I’m dilating at home. I can empathise with the above and I’m still working on it. Interestingly my surgeon and follow up crew have never used the term. Would like to hook up with anyone in a similar situation. Having done a few techniques to ease the situation I would like to share my knowledge I have the same thing. Only my dialation is done in my doctor’s office every week to 10 days depending on how my symptoms dictate. I also gave diverticulitis and calitis..so diet is a huge struggle. Please share whatever you can. Thanks Thank you for the information and the tips . I haven’t given up hope after two years of getting closer a step at the time to a new normality Comments are closed.
Hi to you all , I’m in the UK . I had colon cancer 2018. I was contacted by a research group here in UK called POLARiS , Pathway of Low Anterior Resection Syndrome relief after Sugery. I have just ( 9 days ago 25 November 2022) been fitted with a SACRAL NERVE STIMULATION DEVICE
Hi Perry, thank you so much for sharing. Here’s the link for people in the UK for a LARS clinical trial that is currently still recruiting.
I have stage 2 rectal cancer and is scheduled to do LAR surgery in 2 weeks. Reading the comments scares me. I feel relatively normal right now but it seems my QoL will take a nosedive once the knife touches me, and might be miserable for years or the rest of my life. Now I am reluctant about the surgery. I wonder if anyone opted not to do surgery in my shoes (stage2) and how it looks down the road.
Hi Dee, Thank you for your comment. We’re unable to provide medical advice, so please have this conversation with your medical team and be sure to discuss all your concerns. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Attached is the link for a private Facebook “Living With Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” group which may assist you in answering your questions since the members of this group have firsthand experience. Wishing you all the best.
I was just diagnosed with Rectal Cancer. I’m told they’re removing 80% of my Rectum. I’m in the research stage and learning a ton. So far it appears that the Surgery is the ‘easy’ part vs. life afterward.
Hi Joey, We’re unable to provide medical advice, so please be sure to have this conversation with your medical team. We’re attaching the link for a private Facebook “Living With Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” group which may assist you in your research since this group has firsthand experience. Wishing you all the best in your research.
I am, like so ,many here, struggling for years with the constant and ongoing problems of LARS. I have had a sacral nerve stimulator system for the past 4 years and it has helped a bit- but hey any improvement is better than none. Every day continues to be an exhausting challenge and what it is so disappointing is that the very people who should be willing and able to help ( the colorectal team) are still pretty clueless when it comes to LARS – I suspect that most of us disappear from their view and we retreat to living a very restricted life compared to what we had … but as more and more patients are diagnosed younger… we still have to go to work every day and pay our mortgages etc so we have to be able to go back to a better level of functionality – we can’t just disappear from view, and retreat from life .. as tempting as that is on the worst of days !!!
Hi Kate, Thanks for sharing. We understand that LARS impacts quality of life and is exhausting and frustrating to live with. You are not alone. LARS is a frustrating issue for so many people, and although we are unable to provide medical advice, we work continuously to provide resources to help. When we know there is support, we guide and direct you because no on fights alone. This private Facebook group Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome provides valuable support and encouragement from patients to patients with tips and suggestions that have helped them navigate life post-surgery. Here are also other Fight CRC LARS resources with podcast and blog posts. Don’t disappear from view or retreat from life. You are a survivor! Live life out loud. Please check back with us to let us know how you are doing.
Nine years post ileostomy reversal, and I deal with LARS daily. Clustering, constipation, diarrhea, multiple BMs lasting all day, burning, sore anus. Using wipes is much better than toilet tissue. Have a backpack on wheels that goes with me everywhere with Depends, changes of clothing, wipes, ziplock bags for waste disposal, puppy pee pads to stand on while cleaning myself and changing to clean clothes. I’ve resigned myself to this new normal, and am thankful to be alive and enjoying my eleven grandchildren.
Hi Joy, You are not alone. LARS is a frustrating issue for so many people, and although we are unable to provide medical advice, we work continuously to provide resources to help. When we know there is support, we guide and direct you because no on fights alone. This private Facebook group Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome provides valuable support. Here are also other Fight CRC LARS resources in podcast and blog posts.
I wish I could go back in time and keep my ileostomy bag. Prior to the closure I debated long and hard as I was feeling the best I had in years. I’ve been dealing with Lars for over 6 years and rue my decision everyday. So for anyone debating getting the reversal please take this into consideration. The bag is inconvenient and awkward at times, but if you are feeling good then why open yourself up to the possibility of dealing with Lars for the rest of your life?
Hi Bill, We are so sorry to hear your of your ongoing LARS issues. Please know you are not alone. We do not provide medical advice, and we recommend you have this conversation with your healthcare team. Everyone’s situation is unique, so please talk with your healthcare team who can better guide and assist you. Perhaps this private Facebook site, “Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” which provides colorectal cancer community support, encouragement, advice, and tips, may be helpful. Please be aware we are recommending this Facebook page, not for medical advice, but we want you to connect with others like yourself who have faced similar issues. A few people on this site discussed transitioning to a permanent colostomy for relief from LARS, so please know this is a supportive community who faces the same frustrations and challenges that you do. Finally, please find the link for some LARS resources, which we hope are helpful.
..my wife is 8 mos post ileostomy reversal and her LARS isn’t getting better..if anything getting worse. She’s lost over 20 lbs and can’t gain any of it back. She often avoids eating so her rectum/anus can heal from painful BMs. We have discussed a permanent colostomy to regain quality of life. We would like to hear from others who have chosen that route. In many ways it seems having the bag may not be great but would allow mobility and freedom whereas LARS certainly does not. Thank you and many thanks for this forum! God bless!
Hi Gavin, We are so sorry to hear your wife is having LARS issues. Thank you for your comment. We do not provide medical advice, and we recommend you have this conversation with your healthcare team. Everyone’s situation is unique, so please talk with your healthcare team who can better guide and assist you. Perhaps you or your wife can join this private Facebook site, “Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” which provides colorectal cancer community support, encouragement, advice, and tips, which may be helpful. Please be aware we are recommending this Facebook page, not for medical advice, but we want you to connect with others like yourself and your wife who have faced similar issues or decisions. Also, please find the link for some LARS resources, which we hope are helpful.
I am 9 years post reconnection; serious damage was done due to post cancer surgery infection. The first 6 years went quite well, except for constipation. The past three years have been miserable with LARS – pain, lack of bowel control, constipation, clustering. My single question: Will going back to a colostomy relieve all of these LARS issues?
Hi Dennis, We do not provide medical advice, and we recommend you have this conversation with your healthcare team. Everyone’s situation is unique, so please talk with your healthcare team who can better guide and assist you. There is a private Facebook site “Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome” which provides support, tips, encouragement, and advice, which may be helpful in addition to speaking with your healthcare team. Please be aware we are recommending this Facebook page, not for medical advice, but we want you to connect with others like yourself who have faced similar issues or decisions. Also, please find the link for a podcast on LARS, and a few blogs, which talk about LARS, which may be helpful.
One month ileostomy surgery can I say it is easy when it acts up it is torture anus gets inflamed and feels like hell but Enemas do work. Still trying to find out what to do when stool clusters, If anybody could help most appreciated
Hi Robert, we’re sorry to hear that you are having so many problems related to LARS. You are not alone. Everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another person. We recommend you talk with your healthcare provider and discuss your problems and issues with them. They may be able to provide you with suggestions and options. Our Beyond Blue The Food Issue may be a helpful resource. Also, there is private Facebook group (Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome) that may be worth checking out for support and suggestions: https://www.facebook.com/groups/7865556748
My op was November 2011 and my reversal April 2012. How I wish there had been forums like this. I knew nothing about LARS and was not told anything. Overall I am glad I had the reversal. I had so many problems with the bag. However it was at least 6 years b4 anything like getting better. I have had all the problems discussed and it still isn’t as it was. I stilI have problems. I was told sometime after the reversal not to expect things to be as they were. By then everything had been done. The conclusion really is not 2 expect having a reversal will put things back to as they were.
6 Days post stoma reversal after a Utra Low LAR in July of 2021. Feeling kind of nervous about the journey ahead. Having about 25 – 30 BM’s in a 24 Hr period. Thank you all for your post and Good Luck to everyone!
Hi Jonathan: Thanks for your reply. Please know that no one fights alone! We offer support through Your Guide in the Fight Resource Meetups are free online gatherings for people affected by colorectal cancer seeking access to resources and peer-to-peer support. The next Resource Meetup is Thursday, May 12, 2022, at noon ET. We have more helpful resources on LARS, as well as a food issue of Beyond Blue: Blog: Ambassador Michael Tomko’s Experience with LARS Podcast: LARS: A Survivor’s Perspective Q&A with a provider: Eating with LARS Provider Perspective Q&A with a survivor: LARS Q&A with Survivor Terry Elliott
Hi. I see a lot of comments here that are answered at a LARS facebook group Living With LARS. Please check in there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lwlars Lots of people including me are having great results with enema irrigation, bidets, diaper rash treatments, and diet. I’m mixing two types of fiber and seeing great progress – an odd concept – I am fully aware… Others sing the praises of Physical Therapy work or Pacemaker implants that help us re-circuit the muscles that are there but nerve damage from surgery or radiation render them useless. My resection was c. 2018. I was unable to find any help until late 2021… but help is out there. Find what works for you… we are all (unfortunately) different in our experiences – which is why Drs. have no clue on how to prepare us… but there is a way – it takes time to figure the new you out. But it’s worth it. Good luck people!
Hi David, Thank you for your comment. We agree: Results are so individual, and there is no “one-size-fits-all option” unfortunately. But you are right: Help is out there, and everyone needs to find what works for them based on their own experiences.
Is it better to keep the iliostomy bag and choose not to have resection surgery or live the nightmare after corrective surgery and never be active again?
Hi M, I’m sorry that you are facing this question. Definitely have this conversation with your healthcare provider and medical team since your concerns deserve to be heard and discussed with those involved in your care. It is absolutely possible to remain active after surgery. It may look differently for you than it has in the past. Again, speaking with your provider may help you learn options and what to expect. Our Spring 2022 Beyond Blue issue contains the stories of colorectal cancer survivors Ben Moon and Teri Griege. As athletes, they haven’t let anything—including stage III and stage IV cancer, respectively—get in their way. Read how they stay motivated to keep going, continue pushing limits, and not give up on hope.
Very interesting question M. After 12 days of more than hourly diarrhea in hospital after my Loop Ileostomy closure, I wanted my stoma back! But I do know there are people out there much worse off than me. There is great help and support around, and to know that you are not alone often helps.
I am a month removed from my reversal and have had a horrible time with BMs. Sometimes going every 5 minutes with no sleep all night and this leads to severe pain in the rectum. I can not do the normal things in life that I am accustom too and it is very frustrating mentally and physically. This literally has been the worst year of my life, and to think I was happy about being in remission.
Hi John, You are not alone. LARS is a frustrating issue for so many people, and it was the main topic of our most recent Resource Meetup. While we do not record these meetings since there is the potential for highly sensitive information to be shared, we have two meetings a month, so there are many more opportunities to join us! Our next one will be March 22 at 4:30pm EST. LARS (Low Anterior Resection Syndrome) is a topic that resonates. Here are some resources that may be helpful from our site: Blog- What is Low Anterior Resection Syndrome? Blog- Ambassador Michael Tomko’s Experience with LARS Podcast- LARS: A Survivor’s Perspective Q&A with a provider- Eating with LARS Provider Perspective Q&A with a survivor- LARS Q&A with Survivor Terry Elliott Finally, our fall 2021 issue of Beyond Blue was all about Food.
Hi, I have stage 3 cancer of the rectum, with a LAR op due in 2 weeks after having the 8 week break after radio/chemo pre surgery treatment. I asked my surgeon what will happen to my BM after my stoma reversal surgery, he said you will go back to a completely normal life, there may be some differences, your brain just has to readjust. But what I am reading here tells me a very different story, LARS, never mentioned in any talks with the specialists, nurses, or in any cancer council booklets. I am already terrified by the notion that I have cancer in the first place, I am a fit, healthy 47 year old. Exercise, eat well, always active, never smoked, don’t drink, no family history of bowel cancer! The pre surgery radio/chemo, surgery, stoma, then 4 months of intravenous chemo are a great shock! Now I am worried about more long term issues as stated here.
Ewa, You will do great and bounce back! Not everyone has LARS as a result. The good news is that there is help/solutions for any side-effects. Nobody has to live with uncontrollable bowels, even if they have LARS. For those with LARS, t’s just a matter of finding the underlying cause (e.g. infection, bacteria overgrowth, tailored diet, strategies for emptying/having BM’s, etc.). You have so much going for you with your prior good health…You will do great in surgery and have positive outcomes and a speedy recovery!
Hi Ewa – thanks for sharing your story! Make sure to talk to your doctor about LARS. They may even recommend a physical therapist to help pre and post surgery.
Thanks Kas, Sharyn, for your positive words. I am doing everything possible to be fighting fit for the op. My Bowel cancer nurse, when asked, did say that gastro stop would be necessary, at least initially after reversal of the stoma, whenever I wished to leave the house for any length of time.
In ten days out after my ileostomy reversal after my rectum removal surgery in July. You’ll do fine. Trust your doctor and look to online communities for support. And give it time… Recovery from this phase is tough but very doable. Load up on barrier cream, soft wipes and Metamucil for the first couple weeks. It’s all manageable but don’t expect to be normal for a while. You will improve.
I am 10 months out from my resection surgery. They told me the bowel issues would hopefully get better after chemo was complete. That has been almost 4 months ago and it has not gotten better. It has gotten worse. I have multiple BM’S just about everyday. There is no rhyme or reason to them. I can’t go anywhere or do anything unless I take something to clogged me up then I pay for it later. The pain towards the end 9f the cycle of BM’S is so bad I have to take pain meds. These cycles can come anytime of the day or night. I had a follow up CT and that came out good. I have another colonoscopy this week. I’m so thankful that I’m clean so far but this bathroom issue is horrendous. It feels like you can’t make people understand when you tell them you can’t go somewhere or do something g when you’re having a bad day. Now I’m breaking out in hives from something. I used to be such a control freak and now I can’t seem to control anything. All of this really messes with your head.
Karen, Find a good GI doctor who can test you for SIBO (it’s a breath test) which is a bacteria overgrowth in your gut that hinders proper digestion which can be the source of multiple BMs per day. You may have to weed through a few doctors as I found that most GI doctors only cared about CT scans & colonoscopies fearing cancer had returned and ignored my concern about my gut problems and uncontrollable BMs. I had to really push to find a dr. who would focus on helping find the source of the problem behind the uncontrollable BMs so I could resume life? Most want to say it’s because of LARS (damage from the surgery & treatment) and not offer any real solution. Also, do a stool test from Genova Diagnostics which offers an in-depth evaluation on what’s really going on in your gut (e.g. it tests for gut infections that a typical GI dr. doesn’t test). It’s worth the money out of pocket! Check Genova’s website for lists of doctors near you that offer the test. Often times a gut infection (treatable through an antibiotic like Metronidazole/Flagyl) leads to SIBO and both can be treated which will tremendously help reduce/eliminate having multiple BM’s (uncontrolled) a day. The diet for SIBO will also help reduce the pain & bloating. Note: it’s misleading when you are having multiple BM’s a day to think you may be constipated but chances are, you are constipated caused by SIBO-C so once you get that emptied (through antibiotic if there’s an infection, diet plan for SIBO-C and an enema if need be) you will start to have a more normal life within ~ 2 weeks and have only a few BM’s per day, controlled.
Below are a few things that have helped me after stage 3 colorectal treatment which included chemo, radiation, complete resection of entire rectum, ileostomy bag for 6 months, ileostomy reversal. For almost 3 years after ileostomy reversal, I had fecal incontinence 20-30 times per day (plus flatulence incontinence so I had to resign from my job). I used anti-diarrhea meds which made things worse. Later found out I had an infection in my gut plus vaginal infection. I also had symptoms similar to SIBO-C (Sibo-Constipation). Treatment: 1. Antibiotic for infections: Flagyl; the infection(s) were causing what I thought was diarrhea; in reality I was so constipated that diarrhea formed around the impacted stool; –Enemas can help kick off initial clean out: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Enema-Bucket-Set-w-Castile-Soap-Gentle-L-Care-1500-mL-1-Each/497039918 2. SIBO-C: went on strict diet and STOPPED taking probiotics; I found this diet online which has been a lifesaver: https://www.siboinfo.com/uploads/5/4/8/4/5484269/low_fermentation_diet.pdf 3. Oregano Oil: 3 capsules / day (to reduce the overgrowth of bacteria which cause severe, uncontrollable flatulence). Reducing the bacteria also has aided in having “formed” sufficient BM’s (1-3x/day). I like Natural Factors Oil of Oregano softgels 80% carvacrol; reduce quantity if causes diarrhea 4. In morning, strong cup of french roast coffee, Peet’s ground is best if you can find it in your grocery store (add in 2 Tbsp butter + 1 tsp coconut oil; fat = helps constipation) plus 2 peppermint oil capsules. Goal is to have a large bowel movement in the a.m. to avoid further BM’s during the day + it reduces flatulence.
Mike Parkes, there is a LowerAnterior Resection Syndrome Facebook page. It would be great if you would become a member and share that info of things too have tried with others, if you already have not.
There is a Facebook page called Living with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome. Answer the questions which asks if you have LARS and you will be admitted to this closed Facebook group. It is a wealth of information and support.
It is so helpful to know I am not alone in dealing with LARS I take immodium, and then I might be stopped up for a day or two; then I will go for at least an hour and continues for hours, I am 7 months after reversal. Any hints would be great
Below are a few things that have helped me after stage 3 colorectal treatment which included chemo, radiation, complete resection of rectum, ileostomy bag for 6 months, ileostomy reversal. For almost 3 years, I had fecal incontinence 20-30 times per day (plus flatulence incontinence so I had to resign from my job). I used anti-diarrhea meds which made things worse. Later found out I had an infection in my gut plus vaginal infection. I also had symptoms similar to SIBO-C (Sibo-Constipation). Treatment: 1. Antibiotic for infections: Flagyl; the infection(s) were causing what I thought was diarrhea; in reality I was so constipated that diarrhea formed around the impacted stool 2. SIBO-C: went on strict diet and STOPPED taking probiotics; I found this diet online which has been a lifesaver: https://www.siboinfo.com/uploads/5/4/8/4/5484269/low_fermentation_diet.pdf 3. Oregano Oil: 3 capsules / day (to reduce the overgrowth of bacteria which cause severe, uncontrollable flatulence). Reducing the bacteria also has aided in having “formed” sufficient BM’s (1-3x/day). I like Natural Factors Oil of Oregano softgels 80% carvacrol 4. In morning, strong cup of french roast coffee, Peet’s ground is best if you can find it in your grocery store (add in 2 Tbsp butter + 1 tsp coconut oil; fat = helps constipation) plus 2 peppermint oil capsules. Goal is to have a large bowel movement in the a.m. to avoid further BM’s during the day + it reduces flatulence.
This is an excellent thread. I am now 7 months post reversal and my mobility and overall QoL is much restricted by LARS in the ways variously described here. I am exploring LARRIS – Rectal Irrigation for Lars via a Peristeen system researched by Dr Grace McCutchan in Cardiff UK but I am also thinking about surgery to install a permanent colostomy: thoughts appreciated. I live in Vancouver, Canada and am 78yrs. Pleased to be alive.
I’m 4 years out from my reconnection and have daily issues.Having my rectum and most of my colon removed doesn’t give my stool enough time to dry out and compact so the majority of the time it is more of a liquid state. Metamucil helps thicken the stool and Lomotil/Imodium help slow down the process so the stool has more time to firm up. Also irrigation with a Fleet bottle helps rinse fragments out of the colon and cleans any fluids away from the anus which causes the burning and discomfort. Use luke warm tap water and lubricate the tip for insertion.It may take 2-3 times before you notice the discharge becoming cleaner. I’ve noticed in the past 6 months things getting better but it’s a slow and arduous process. Be patient….take your Metamucil everyday… and get some exercise! Remember..your alive..and this is your new “norm”.
You are right on! I have been 1 1/2 yrs out and have issues. Couldn’t explain it any better than you have. Time is everything. Lisa
Spot on. I never knew there is a name for it. LARS! I have had it for ten years. I try not to let it control my life. Just be patient with yourself.
Mike Parkes, very interested in what you are doing. I am 16 months post reversal. Though things are better, I am not where I want to be. There is a LARS Facebook page, too, for people like us to,share things we have done that could be helpful to others.
I’m 6 years out and I HAVE to have; what we call an emergency bag in every vehicle. There isn’t any warning. I carry in each emergency bag wipes, recticare, diaper, sweats, and over the counter liquid anti diarrhea medicine. I carry a prescription bottle of lomotil with me everywhere I go. If I know we’ll be out for most of the day I will take prescription anti diarrhea medicine. I’ll do it if going to see a movie as well. Nothing sucks more than having to go to the bathroom during it. I can end up on toilet for 2 hours anytime I have a bowel movement due to actively having bowel movements.
I am a 34 year old female and am 2 years post ileostomy take down. I had nothing but problems after my reconnection. I couldn’t urinate on my own and had a cath the first 6 weeks post surgery, followed by two weeks of self catheterizarion, before I regained that ability. Once I was cleared to have sex again, we realized the issues weren’t just limited to going to the bathroom, but also to intercourse (pain and dryness). I’ve seen countless specialists, went to pelvic floor physical therapy, tried hormone therapies, etc., and nothing has helped. I’ve done plenty of research on everything colorectal cancer related and this is the first I’ve ever heard about LARS. Would love to chat with any other ladies who may be experiencing the same issues as I am.
This is my first time reading all of this. I am 7 months post ileostomy reversal. My surgeons office mentioned this condition when I described my symptoms but really didn’t go into it. I feel better that I’m not alone but I truly was hoping this was temporary now I’m not so sure.
Four and a half years after my LAR I still have LARS. Grateful to be alive, but it’s a “new” life and definitely not easy. Oddly enough, I moved to Mexico and thought that my LARS would get worse, but it’s gotten MUCH better. Different food? Less stressful environment? Who knows but I’m hoping it continues to improve.
I was offered the low anterior resection or APR surgery with a permanent colostomy for my Stage IV rectal cancer. I chose the APR surgery for two reasons: 1) to help prevent a local recurrence, and 2) to have a known outcome with a known quality of life rather than risk being incontinent or experiencing LARS. That was almost 3 years ago.I don’t regret my decision, and I am NED. For me, it was the right decision.
Thanks for sharing, Jane. It’s great to hear you were such an active participant in treatment decision making – it’s SO important.
I am 13 months from my LAR surgery. I suffer daily with LARS. In addition my bladder stopped working after the surgery. I have been dealing with not being able to void on my own. I feel like I am at my ropes end. Mentally this is so hard. I want to he normal again. I want to be able to go for a drive or get on an airplane without constant fear. I want to not have to leave a conversation or finish a 30 minute TV show without having to go to the bathroom. I want my life back.
My LARS was complicated by BAM (bile acid malabsorption/diarrhea ) and SIBO (small intestine bacteria overgrowth). BAM d/t gall bladder removal during initial LAR surgery & ablation/resection of liver mets. Diarrhea now pretty well controlled by Prevalite (there are others) & diet. SIBO from ileostomy & reversal. Treated with antibiotic. I went for over a year being told it was LARS, then a smart gastro put it all together. So ask about these possibilities. Life is not normal but profoundly improved.
I just hit five years out last week. Unfortunately, I deal with the symptoms of LARS every single day. I still haven’t given up hope that something will come along to help manage the symptoms.
Excellent! I am struggling in Vancouver Canada with LARS four months post reversal. My goal is to travel back to England each year for a couple of months. Keep up this great research and communication. David
Yes….. I had an ultra low LAR with reconnection May 2016. Pretty well lost most of my rectum. Also had real anastomosis stricture issues and have been surgically stretched twice. Now I’m dilating at home. I can empathise with the above and I’m still working on it. Interestingly my surgeon and follow up crew have never used the term. Would like to hook up with anyone in a similar situation. Having done a few techniques to ease the situation I would like to share my knowledge
I have the same thing. Only my dialation is done in my doctor’s office every week to 10 days depending on how my symptoms dictate. I also gave diverticulitis and calitis..so diet is a huge struggle. Please share whatever you can. Thanks
Thank you for the information and the tips . I haven’t given up hope after two years of getting closer a step at the time to a new normality