Bowels

There has been much bowel talk here lately and it has me wondering what's in store for me!!

Does everyone depend on taking something everyday? Will I know when I need to take something? I recall someone having a bowel obstruction early on and I'd like to avoid that if at all possible. Are these things that are explained at pre-op or post-op or is it something everyone just figured out on their own? I'd much rather the pioneers give me a push in the right direction so I'll be prepared. Oh, and if I can avoid smelly gas that would be delightful!

Thanks in advance

I'd say if you're released with a pain med start mixing restoralax in to one of your waters daily and that will help. Better than getting to the point of constipation and having to work your way out of it. That's no fun. I was discharged on a twice a day stool softener but still had issues, better to just take it from the beginning.

I was released on twice a day senokot + a stool softener and everyone keeps saying the stinky gas is permanent. I'm just hoping it improves with time

I was the one with the bowel obstruction. That had nothing to do with constipation. That was because my bowel actually twisted causing the obstruction.

However, constipation is definitely a "thing" after surgery. You don't eat much, and what you do eat has virtually no carbs, no fibre which is the perfect storm for constipation.

I take a stool softener + restoralax or senna when required.

Now that I am getting veggies into my diet and a few whole grains, the stool softener every other day seems to be doing the trick on its own.

Thanks for the advice. Sounds like Restoralax is the go to

I had major bowel issues. I had never had constipation before, always had a well rounded, high fibre diet, so this was new to me. I was in so much pain!!!

For a while, I was taking Senokot and colace, but my doc didn't want me to stay on them long term (promotes lazy bowels). I got advice here, and did research, and it seemed Restoralax was the way to go. I was panicked about the transition but thankfully it was smooth sailing. I've been regular for months now!!

I like to be proactive!!

Is this something I should stock up on and start as soon as I'm home or is it a wait and see kinda thing?

Thanks

That's a good question! Not everyone will have bowel issues. I would wait. Also, wait to see what the hospital gives you at discharge.

Having the information and being ready to "act" is half (or more than half) of the battle. You got this, and we're here for you!!

I had bought restoralax prior to surgery so that I had it on hand. :)

RESTOROLAX is a great "go to".... i am 6 yrs out and was never aware of having any poop issues... OMG... i died the first 4 months with constipation.. no one talked about it or discussed it at any of my preop appts nor did anyone mention it at any of the support group meetings i attended and i attended quite a few. I also had a twisted bowel a year later and was hospitalized for 4 days and they removed 31 cms of my bowels... ouchhh!! because of all the extra space i had with my stomach shrinking.... painful.. OMG worse than labour!! so i'd suggest the day you get out of the hospital to start on the restorolax...or mirolax!!!! good luck!!!