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Constipated after colonoscopy

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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Posted 10/11/2014 6:13 AM (GMT -5)
I had a colonoscopy 5 days ago. The day after my colonoscopy I had some diarreha, maybe because the laxatives were still in my system. Now 5 days later I have still not had a bowel movement. I do not normally struggle with constipation. I eat fiber, drink lots of water and excersize. Is there anything I can do to move my bowels along or should I just keep waiting it out?
Posted 10/11/2014 9:19 AM (GMT -5)
Elle86,

I wouldn't worry so long as you're not uncomfortable, bloated or nauseated... Maybe you're still pretty cleaned out from the prep? Anyway, sounds like you're already doing all of the right things! I'm no expert, but I've had 2 colonoscopies in the past & it always took around a week - 10 days for me to pass stool again.
All best to you!
Posted 10/11/2014 9:25 AM (GMT -5)
Elle, don't worry, it's very common to get constipation after colonoscopy. My doctor warned me about that. ;o)
Posted 10/23/2014 5:54 PM (GMT -5)
Yes, normal...I just had one (colonoscopy) Tuesday and it's Thursday and I really had to push to get it out. If I didn't help it along I think I would be pretty uncomfortable by now because I eat a lot and this morning I was really starting to feel it.
Posted 10/24/2014 10:54 PM (GMT -5)
I agree that it is something a lot of people have reported some constipation after the test. I guess I would give it another day or two, and then if nothing's happening and you are feeling uncomfortable or even just worried about it, call the clinic and see if you could even just talk to a nurse or something. Might be a good idea to try a dose of a stool softener, something like miralax, see if that helps at all. Do you usually take any meds or anything to help w/ the constipation?
Posted 11/10/2014 12:58 AM (GMT -5)
Yes, it is common to experience constipation after colonoscopy. After being cleansed out, your intestine will try to recover, thus, you end up having constipation for a short period of time.
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