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A member asked:
I'm recovering from an appendectomy. should i take a stool softener to make the transition back to a fully functioning gi tract easier?
A doctor has provided 1 answer
No: After an appendectomy there may be a period of ileus or non propulsion of the bowel due to parasympathetic enhanced activity. A stool softener will not enhance or improve ease of movement of bowel function. In contrast, where a bowel resection and anastomosis is performed, there may be a narrowing of lumen at the suture line and here a stool softener may help.
Answered 11/26/2015
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