Post Top Operation Trouble

[IsaacToussaint]

Hi everyone. I’m new here, and I’ve never used a trans forum before, but two days ago I had top surgery! Yay! The only problem is that the opioids are making it very hard for me to go to the bathroom. This is embarrassing, but I cannot figure out how to poop. I’m sorry that this is awkward but any help at all would be so greatly appreciated. 

[Jackie C.]

Whelp, things that help me... I'm on a high protein diet so I frequently have this problem.

 

(1) Moving around. I don't know what kind of restrictions you're on but if you can, work the lower body/abdominal area. 

 

(2) Fiber. I take a lot of fiber supplements.

 

(3) When all else fails: Laxatives. There are a bunch of over the counter products that can help.

 

My wife is pointing out that you should check with your doctor on this. If it becomes uncomfortable enough, go to urgent care, that's what they're for.

 

I hope some of that helps.

 

Hugs!

[secondlook]

I really sympathize, Isaac. When I had my gallbladder out years ago, the surgeon warned me as he was writing the prescription that I would have great difficulty with bowel movements unless I could resist the urge to take the vicodin he was prescribing. Basically he was telling me to "man up" and deal with the pain so that my intestines would function properly. I tried to split the difference and skip every other opportunity when I could've taken the pills, and it was brutal. I can't believe they still haven't come up with better options. I'm sorry you're dealing with this same quandary, and I'm sorry I can't be more helpful. But I'm pulling for you!

[TommieAnne]

Out of the four big surgeries I had, two of them really put my digestive tract to sleep for a while. I wasn't supposed to be discharged from hospital until things woke back up, but I was on heavy opiodes  and things weren't much more than a rumble.

Oatmeal is very good for that.

It is very normal to have severe constipation from the painkillers. However, if your kidneys also shut down, or your digestive tract doesn't "wake up" after two weeks, get to the doctor! You will know if things are working. Just the feeling of things going on will alert you.

TA

[Jackie C.]

Oh, derp. Also forgot water. Drink lots and lots of fluids. It helps immensely.

 

Hugs!

[DeeDee]

Water, is definitely top of the list. Ice water is better than lukewarm water. Hydration is so important! Also things like grape/prune/pineapple juice and overripe bananas but definitely keep an eye on it. Also Hi  

[jayjeep]

I had the same issue with my Top surgery. My surgeon gave me solace. Said to take them before surgery and after. They helped but it took about 5 days for them to work. Lots of water. High fiber fruits like Blueberries, Bananas, and apples. I was lucky I never had to take any pain meds. I was sick as a dog day 1 but that is because I got a migraine right after surgery. I only needed advil for about a week. I will be 3 months post op next week.