OK - so I don't know how to express this problem without being graphic. A week ago I strained myself to get a bowel movement out. It was not moving, and I had little choice due to what was happening at the time. I know it was the wrong thing to do.

Ever since then I have had extreme pains in my lower abdomen and bowels, I already had hemorrhoids, but I believe this made them much worse.

I haven't been able to pass a stool, without manual help, due to the extreme pain. I am talking on par with childbirth pain.

I don't know if this is going to pass, or if I am going to need doctor intervention. How long can I let this go without medical help?

Hi Liza,

You probably should be evaluated by a dr. to rule out anything serious.

You could take some type of laxative for quick relief. Milk of magnesia helps some, I have used senna (Senakot) in the past. Miralax really seems to help me but it does take several days to take effect though.

For the longer term you should add metamucil, benefiber, fibresure or other fiber to your diet. You would need to start slowly with the fiber as it can cause gas. Make sure you drink plenty of water or the fiber can be constipating.

You could be having pain from a fissure, a tear in the canal. This can be very painful and cause muscle spasms for hours. Are your hemmoroids internal or external? Do you have any bleeding?

Hope you feel better very soon.