Question:
4 weeks post RNY and constipated

I had two bowel movements after surgery but nothing for the past 3 weeks despite increased water consumption and walking. I've tried liquid fiber and milk of magnesia. I understand constipation is a common complaint post-surgery. Any suggestions? I don't feel bad, but how long should you wait until you call the doctor? Diann    — Wompy (posted on September 9, 2007)

September 9, 2007
It can get VERY painful. You might consider a laxative, but be sure it has the ingredient "senna" or sennoside - WalMart has a cheap, generic brand with it, they're small, blue pills. In my experience, that's the only ingredient that's effective. They aren't meant for constant, long-term use. However, you'll want to have them on hand!
   — jen41766

September 9, 2007
I use suppositories...they are a life saver.
   — pooch

September 9, 2007
I had this too post op and still suffer from it at times. My doc suggested a fleet suppository and it works well.
   — Stacey D.

September 9, 2007
Hi I am 3 months post op and still having the same problems. I usually go about once a week or sometimes a little longer.
   — Alvernlaw

September 9, 2007
I would see your doc if it's been 3 weeks. I use benefiber and it works miracles. I am normal now - but the benefiber got me through the early stages when I wasn't eating much. I would see you doc, 3 weeks seems a bit too long.
   — jammerz

September 9, 2007
It is easy to get started by using a glycerin suppository
   — bderuiter

September 9, 2007
You need to get things going fast before you end up sick. Talk to your doctor, but I have had issues as well and I have had good results with Miralax, which is a desolvable powder that does not get thick or change the flavor of things. You can put it in your water or whatever else you drink. But, whatever medicine you chose to use, I would start being concerned since it has been 3 weeks, so be sure to act upon this problem as soon as possible.
   — scharlier

September 9, 2007
Don't wait any longer to get some relief! Even if you do go without help you may have trouble just passing 3 weeks worth of stool. VERY, VERY painful!! I had the same trouble after surgery and continue to have problems. I take Colace 2x daily and a Peri-Colace when I really need to clean out. Hope this helps.
   — dre_1974

September 9, 2007
I agree that you should call the doctor soon. Or find someway to "go". I had to go to the hospital when I was about 6 months out because I had a blockage (or a big mass). I felt like I was going to die when it decided to pass (with help).
   — GAYLE CARMACK-LYONS

September 10, 2007
I'm a Pharmacist, so here's my opinion. The anesthesia and pain meds can really shut down your intestinal movement. There are alot of over-the-counter laxatives out there and people don't always choose the right product: 1. For occasional constipation, try a stool softener such as Docusate. 2. For mild constipation, osmotic laxatives such as Miralax or Glycolax can help - I agree with Shelly on this. But these can be powerful, so don't go run any errands after taking. 3. The next category is stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl, senna, etc. 4. Fleets Enema is not fun, but might be the only option if the other laxatives don't work. Since it's been so long since your last BM, definitely check with your doctor. You don't want to get a bowel obstruction. Good luck. (If anyone wants a chart on these laxative meds, email me and I will send you one.)
   — NMlakerFan

September 10, 2007
Definitely call your doctor. I use Miralax, a clear, tasteless powder that gets mixed into 8oz of whatever beverage you like. It can take several days to work but won't the cramping or pain that stimulant laxatives (senna esp.) can cause. You are eating a lot less than usual so may find that you won't move your bowels as often pre-op plus you will be making less stool. You are probably also not getting a whole bunch of fiber. If you are on any pain meds, this can contribute to it as well. I hesitate to try a lot of things because like you, 3 weeks into it, it doesn't bother me or cause pain or other problems. Things that have helped me, especially as a preventative, are fiber powder (Benefiber or generic) and Colace (a stool softner). I haven't found them to of any use when I'm already constipated but defintiely helps prevetent it. Best wishes.
   — mrsidknee

September 12, 2007
this maybe one of the reasons. Your pretty much only getting liquids in so there's not much to dispose of sort of speak....lol.... At least nothing of substance anyways. I wouldn't worry to much about it. But if your really concerned give a call to your doctor. I'm pretty sure he or she will tell you the same thing at this point.
   — Marla N.

September 24, 2007
Hi, I had this problem at the beginning also. I take Benefiber chewable tablets in orange cream everyday. You'll find more info on the link below: http://www.benefiber.com/products/index.shtml?benefiberChewables Good luck, Stephanie
   — stephanienagy

Click Here to Return