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What Causes Greasy Stools Along With Diarrhea Post Gall Bladder Removal?
Question: I have ulcerative colitis further complicated when I had my gallbladder removed. I pass an oily substance with nearly every bowel movement. I produce a lot of cholesterol (genetic issue per my primary care). I believe this is what is causing sebarreic (sic) diarrhea. I am on a maintenance daily dose of Asacol (800mg 2 pills 3x daily) plus rectal enemas as needed for bleeding. II spend the first few morning hours literally running to the bathroom. Is there anything else I can do that might ease the situation?
Regards,
XXXXX
Regards,
XXXXX
Brief Answer:
Your diarrhea seem to be related to the gall bladder removal
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Thank your for your question on HCM! I understand your concern.
Your greasy diarrhea seems to be related to the gall bladder resection, the also called "Postcholecystectomy syndrome". In most cases, the diarrhea stops soon after the surgery. Rarely, it may last for months. Of course these symptoms are worsened by the ulcerative colitis.
I would like to explain that the liver produces bile and the gallbladder acts as reservoir. From the gallbladder, bile (which contains the enzymes necessary for fat digestion) enters the intestine in individual portions.
In the absence of gallbladder, bile enters the intestine constantly, but in small quantities. Thus, it may be insufficient for digestion of fatty foods, causing a greasy diarrhea( steatorrhea).
I would recommend you to modify your diet first, avoiding fatty and spicy food and foods that can make diarrhea worse in general, including caffeine and very sweet foods.
I would also advise to start therapy loperamide ( a well known anti-diarrhea drug and antiacids to help with digestions.
Pancreas enzyme supplements and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K would also be helpful.
I would recommend you to consult with your gastroenterologist for the above mentioned possibilities.
Hope to have been of help!
Greetings! Dr. Iliri
Your diarrhea seem to be related to the gall bladder removal
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Thank your for your question on HCM! I understand your concern.
Your greasy diarrhea seems to be related to the gall bladder resection, the also called "Postcholecystectomy syndrome". In most cases, the diarrhea stops soon after the surgery. Rarely, it may last for months. Of course these symptoms are worsened by the ulcerative colitis.
I would like to explain that the liver produces bile and the gallbladder acts as reservoir. From the gallbladder, bile (which contains the enzymes necessary for fat digestion) enters the intestine in individual portions.
In the absence of gallbladder, bile enters the intestine constantly, but in small quantities. Thus, it may be insufficient for digestion of fatty foods, causing a greasy diarrhea( steatorrhea).
I would recommend you to modify your diet first, avoiding fatty and spicy food and foods that can make diarrhea worse in general, including caffeine and very sweet foods.
I would also advise to start therapy loperamide ( a well known anti-diarrhea drug and antiacids to help with digestions.
Pancreas enzyme supplements and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K would also be helpful.
I would recommend you to consult with your gastroenterologist for the above mentioned possibilities.
Hope to have been of help!
Greetings! Dr. Iliri
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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