Impacted, constipation, pain, swelling - Bowel Disorders Message Board

10-03-2003, 11:56 AM

Frequent constipation, painful bm, colon cramping (decending portion), flatulance, occassional anal tissue swelling, most recent impacted (think from many meds for pain-they did not prescribe a stool softener). Never mention these things at doctors visits accept the problem years ago (passed over gal/in family).

Over the counter fiber supplements (fiber), oral solution; magnesium citrate, enemas, drinking a lot of water, eating foods with fiber. Have a dryness condition but don't know what else to do. Fearful the colon could rupture.

Does anyone go through this? Need a doctor? What would they do for this?

cattys · 10-04-2003, 07:23 PM

If you get impacted alot you need to tell your Dr. this. There has to be somthing that they can do for you.

Good luck

mlgable · 10-04-2003, 11:26 PM

The first thing you need to do is be sure you are using Metamucil 2-3 times daily to help with your constipation. If you are on routine pain meds constipation can often be a side effect of many pain meds. If your stools are hard then use colace aka docusate until the Metamucil kicks in. You will also want to add prune juice or prunes to your daily routine and be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and veggies. Sit on the toilet for 5 minutes EVERY day after breakfast whether you have a BM or not to try to get your bowels regulated. If you haven't had a BM by the third day then use a glycerin suppository. If this is not effective then use a baking soda enema with approximately 1 tsp of baking soda to each quart of lukewarm water. If the enema is needed be sure to try and retain the solution for about 5 minutes before you expell it. Make and appointment with your doc though to get this checked out and see if maybe a less constipating pain med might work for you.

01-06-2004, 11:50 AM

Thank you for your response & suggestions. I am taking your advise and will be addressing this with a doctor at my next appointment. Again, thanks a lot.
Gemi