Had anal fistula surgery on Tuesday. Have not had bowel movement since. today is!
Question:
Had anal fistula surgery on Tuesday. Have not had bowel movement since. today is sunday. Is that too long?
taking codeine...so I don't know how long is too long...and when I should be concerned
Additional Details3 weeks ago
I am taking a stool softener in addition. I'm not uncomfortable because of it. Just remember the surgeon saying you may be constipated for 2 or 3 days...but just want to be assured that it's ok if it ends up being 5 or 6 days.
I'm not in a hurry mind you :) I just know it's going to hurt...so if it's ok I'm happy to wait.
Answers:
Be concerned. Codeine is well-known for causing constipation. I don't know what the prep was for your surgery (some doctors have you completely clean your colon before surgery so it may take a bit longer for you to have a bowel movement post op), but you definitely should have been prescribed stool softeners and told to drink a lot of fluids. Constipation can cause little tears in the anal tissue and also may cause you to strain excessively to pass the BM - both things you need to really avoid right now. If you can't get a hold of your doctor, at least call a pharmacist and get some suggestions (they will probably recommend docusate sodium which you can purchase over the counter as Colace (stool softener) or Peri-Colace (stool softener/stimulant laxative).
Good luck with this!