I had a back surgery and was given perk 5. now i don't have a bowel movement. i've tried stool softeners and went off the pain medicine even though i'm still in pain. what shouldi do?

Question

I had anorectal surgery 2 weeks ago (fissurectomy, abscess and Seton placement). Despite using Magnesium citrate or stool softener, I noticed that I still tend towards hard stool despite eating fiber as well. When will bowel movements become normal?

Answer 1

Constipation: I am happy you are figuring this out. Your doctor may have to prescribe you a prescription strength laxative. But, try ingesting three liters of water over the next hour and then see how things progress. Do not repeat this if there is no benefit or if your stool does not come easily afterwards.

Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.

Learn how we can help

Answer 2

Constipation: Opioid induced constipation is common and sometimes difficult to treat. Even though you have stopped the medication, if you has progressed to impaction, you may have difficulty with home remedies. Mag citrate is commonly used in hospitals. If you are still in pain, discuss continuing Percocet with your physician with addition of relistor, (methylnaltrexone) a Naloxone med that does not cross blood/brain barrier.

Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.

Learn how we can help

Answer 3

Opioid constipation: Opioids/narcotics are well known to cause constipation. It's the one side effect to which we can't develop tolerance. Talk to your prescribing doc about laxatives. Lubiprostone is a prescription drug approved for opioid-induced constipation. You can try MiraLAX (polyethylene glycol) & milk of magnesia which are available w/o prescription. Senna, too. Enemas are another otc option. Bottom line: develop plan w/your doc.

Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.

Learn how we can help

I had a back surgery and was given perk 5. now i don't have a bowel movement. i've tried stool softeners and went off the pain medicine even though i'm still in pain. what shouldi do?

Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers — it's anonymous and free!

Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers — it's anonymous and free!

HealthTap doctors are based in the U.S., board certified, and available by text or video.

Ask your Gastroenterology question free

Talk to a primary care doctor now for a personalized answer to your Gastroenterology question

Trusted by millions since 2010

Related questions

Day 5 did enema and stool softener still no bowel movement what can I do?

3 mos. ago I had spinal fusion and bifemeral bipass surgeries 2 days apart and am still having difficulty having good bowel movement, stool is soft but just can't go even when I feel I have to, any idea why?

I eat 2-3 fruits and a big bowl of salad everyday but still have constipation most of the times. I have about 2-3 bowel movements each week. Sometimes I use over-the-counter stool softener pills and they can be helpful after maybe 2 days. Do you have any

I had surgery on monday on my knee and i finally had a bowel movement but there was mucus in the stool. I have been on pain medications?

I had gallbladder surgery last Tuesday.Had one stool thurs. I haven't had a bowel movement in 5 days. Is this normal?

Found in:

People also asked

Related topics

Disclaimer:

Get the Free App for Members

Get the Free App for Doctors

Product

Company

Work with Us

Why Trust Us