Key takeaways<\/h2>\n\n- \n
Constipation after surgery is common, attributed to factors such as lack of physical activity, dietary changes, anesthesia, and post-operative pain medications like opioids.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
Anesthesia and the duration of surgery can impact the likelihood of post-operative constipation, with regional anesthesia possibly reducing this risk.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
To alleviate constipation, it\u2019s recommended to maintain hydration, consume high-fiber foods, engage in physical activity as permitted, and use over-the-counter remedies like stool softeners and laxatives.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
- \n
If constipation persists beyond a few days, is accompanied by significant pain or bleeding, it\u2019s important to seek medical treatment to prevent complications like hemorrhoids or intestinal obstruction.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Recovering from surgery can be an unpleasant process, whether you\u2019re going through the rehab associated with a knee replacement or simply waiting for your body to feel normal following an outpatient procedure. During recovery, the last thing you want is an additional discomfort. However, whether your surgeon discussed it with you or not, many people experience constipation after surgery. Knowing what to expect and making a plan can diminish the effects of this uncomfortable surprise. Read on to find out how.<\/span><\/p>\nIs it normal to be constipated after surgery?<\/span><\/h2>\n\u201cIt\u2019s quite common, even expected, for patients to be constipated immediately after surgery,\u201d says<\/span> Jemiel Nejim<\/span><\/a>, MD, an anesthesiologist at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. There are a variety of factors that contribute to post-surgery constipation (also called post-operative constipation), each of which generally has a larger effect on the incidence of constipation than the type of surgery itself, excluding intra-abdominal and bowel surgeries.<\/span><\/p>\nWhile many surgeries including obstetric, gallbladder removal, and tonsillectomy can cause constipation, intra-abdominal and bowel surgeries are well known to cause post-operative constipation.<\/span> \u201cBowel and some abdominal surgeries may cause an ileus in which the normal pulsations of the bowel stop working,\u201d says<\/span> Michael Philbin<\/span><\/a>, MD, a surgeon at Edina Plastic Surgery in Edina, Minnesota.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nLack of physical activity, pre-surgery dietary changes (including water restriction), and anesthesia given during surgery all contribute to constipation. In addition, medications used to control pain post-surgery <\/span>can cause constipation<\/span><\/a>. For example, <\/span>research<\/span><\/a> indicates that 40-60% of patients taking opioid medications, commonly prescribed for pain post-surgery, experience constipation as a side effect.<\/span><\/p>\nWhat causes constipation after surgery?<\/span><\/h2>\nWith other procedures, there are several underlying factors that can cause post-surgery constipation.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nAnesthesia<\/span><\/h3>\nThe anesthetic regimen administered during surgery is likely to have an effect on constipation during recovery. \u201cAnesthesia is a broad term that describes a number of different medications,\u201d Dr. Jemiel Nejim says. \u201cBoth the type of anesthesia and the surgical duration affect the likelihood of postoperative constipation. Surgeries that last longer in duration tend to be associated with a higher predisposition to constipation.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSome practices focus on using regional anesthesia over general anesthesia, which helps to reduce the number of drugs used and thus may reduce the likelihood of constipation after surgery.<\/span><\/p>\nPostoperative pain medications<\/span><\/h3>\nPost-surgery constipation is also often a result of opioid pain medications, given either as part of the anesthesia or for pain relief following the surgery, according to Dr. Philbin.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nAccording to Inara Nejim, Pharm.D., a clinical pharmacist at Hospital for Special Surgery, \u201c<\/span>Medications<\/span> from the opioid drug class, such as<\/span> Percocet<\/span>,<\/span> oxycodone<\/span> or <\/span>tramadol<\/span>, are a cornerstone foundation in managing postoperative pain, and one of their well-known side effects is constipation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\nBehavioral factors<\/span><\/h3>\nEven in daily life, dehydration is one of the most common causes of constipation. Following surgery, the body requires plenty of fluids to aid in recovery. Without them, constipation is likely to occur, so make sure to drink lots of water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe same goes for nutritional intake: Not everyone may have an appetite after surgery, but continuing frequent oral intake, especially fiber-rich foods is key to helping things move along.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nFinally, a lack of physical activity, another known cause of constipation, is common after surgery. Dr. Philbin recommends working with your doctor to understand when, and for how long, you\u2019re able to safely begin to move about during recovery to help alleviate inactivity-related constipation.<\/span><\/p>\nWhen should I worry about constipation after surgery?<\/span><\/h2>\nWhile constipation immediately following surgery is common, especially if you are subject to some of the above factors, there are some warning signs to look out for that could indicate a more serious problem.<\/span><\/p>\nAccording to Dr. Philbin, you can expect constipation to last for a few days, depending on how active you are allowed to be and the amount of post-op pain meds needed. Abdominal pain due to bloating after surgery is also quite common and could be a result of trapped gas or excess fluids, according to Dr. Jemiel Nejim. These fluids tend to be excreted naturally within a few days. Mild tummy bloating can be helped by eating smaller, frequent meals and increasing physical activity. In addition, taking simethicone medications, which work by breaking up big gas bubbles in the gut into smaller bubbles, making them easier to pass, can help with bloating and gas.<\/span><\/p>\nIf you experience significant pain or bleeding, or if constipation lasts longer than three days, seek medical treatment. Prolonged constipation can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and in very rare instances medical conditions such as ileus or intestinal obstruction, which require further medical interventions.<\/span><\/p>\nWhat helps with constipation after surgery?<\/span><\/h2>\nThe good news is that there are plenty of ways to alleviate constipation caused by surgery, especially if you make a plan with your doctor ahead of time. Whether via pre- or post-surgery dietary changes or by knowing the over-the-counter treatment options, being prepared will make the process a little easier.<\/span><\/p>\nBefore surgery<\/span><\/h3>\n\u201cIf someone has concerns before surgery regarding potential constipation, the best thing to do is to speak up and openly talk about those concerns before surgery,\u201d says Dr. Jemiel Nejim. This is especially true for those who already suffer from chronic constipation. If there are medications that traditionally work well for you, identify these with your medical team prior to surgery. If allowed by your physician, increase your fiber intake or begin a regimen of stool softeners prior to surgery if constipation is a concern.<\/span><\/p>\nAfter surgery<\/span><\/h3>\nAccording to Dr. Inara Nejim, one of the best ways to prevent complications of untreated constipation at home is by having an honest conversation about medications during the discharge process\u2014and during follow-up phone calls. A nurse will usually go over all of your prescriptions and can explain how to effectively manage constipation at home using diet and over-the-counter medication.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you are going to start a fiber supplement, make sure you also increase your fluid intake accordingly, as bulk fiber supplements can worsen constipation if you don\u2019t drink sufficient fluids. Your doctor should advise you on a gradual treatment approach to reducing constipation, beginning with stool softeners and gentle senna-based laxatives\u2014and if no benefit, advance to other stimulant laxatives such as <\/span>Dulcolax<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nDiet<\/span><\/h4>\nIf your symptoms of constipation are minor or haven\u2019t lasted very long, it may be possible to alleviate the condition with<\/span> home remedies<\/span>, like adding key foods that are known to help with constipation:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Fluid intake:<\/b> When your body is hydrated enough to draw water into the colon, bowel movements are easier.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Chia seeds:<\/b> As chia seeds move through the body, they take on a gel-like consistency, which can help prevent hard stools.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Lentils, beans, and chickpeas:<\/b> These high-fiber foods promote healthy digestion and help encourage regular bowel movements.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Whole grains:<\/b> Whole grains contain more fiber than white breads or pastas and can be more beneficial in moving things along.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Citrus fruits:<\/b> Oranges and grapefruit are high in vitamin C, which is known to draw water into the colon, keeping stools softer and easier to pass.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Prunes or prune juice:<\/b> This fruit contains fiber and high amounts of sorbitol, which has laxative effects.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Leafy greens:<\/b> This type of veggie is high in magnesium, which helps draw water into the gut.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Psyllium husk:<\/b> It is a bulk-forming laxative, derived from Plantago ovata plant\u2019s seeds. It is commonly available over the counter and is very effective in constipation. A refined powdered version of psyllium husk is available as Metamucil.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
- Caffeine:<\/b><\/a> Hot, caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea stimulate the bowels and stimulate digestion. Just be sure you\u2019re drinking plenty of water, too, since caffeine is a <\/span>diuretic<\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
If you\u2019re experiencing constipation after surgery it\u2019s best to <\/span>avoid foods <\/span><\/a>that are high in fat and\/or low in fiber content, including:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Chips\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
- Fried food<\/span><\/li>\n
- Meat\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
- Dairy<\/span><\/li>\n
- Frozen meals\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
- Processed foods\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Medications<\/span><\/h4>\nIf the above solutions still leave you feeling backed up, the next line of defense is stool softeners or gentle laxatives.<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Stool softeners: <\/b>These medications (such as<\/span> Colace<\/span>) work by drawing water into the stool and making it easier to pass, says Dr. Philbin. Stool softeners can take 24 to 48 hours to work.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Fiber laxatives:<\/b> These supplements (such as<\/span> Metamucil<\/span>, <\/span>Fibercon<\/span>, and<\/span> Citrucel<\/span>) also increase the water content of the stool, helping it to move through the colon. Fiber laxatives take 12 to 24 hours to provide relief.<\/span><\/li>\n
- \u00a0<\/span>Polyethylene glycol laxatives: <\/b>These osmotic laxatives (such as<\/span> Miralax<\/span> or <\/span>milk of magnesia<\/span>) work by bringing water into the lumen of the bowel, making stools easier to pass. Osmotic laxatives take 12 to 72 hours to produce results.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
If these medications fail to provide relief, the next line are mildly stimulating laxatives, suppositories and then, if necessary, enemas.<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Stimulant laxatives:<\/b> These medications (such as<\/span> Dulcolax<\/span> and<\/span> Senokot<\/span>) cause the intestines to contract and trigger a bowel movement. Stimulant laxatives take six to 12 hours to work.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Suppositories:<\/b> There are different types of suppositories, and the most commonly used are stimulant laxatives, like Dulcolax. Many draw water from the bowel into the most hardened areas of the stool while triggering the intestinal muscles to contract, working together to cause a bowel movement. Suppositories typically take 15 to 60 minutes to provide relief.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Enemas:<\/b> This class of medication works by introducing different types of fluid (from tap water to stimulating medication) directly into the intestines, softening and loosening stool.<\/span> Enemas<\/span> typically take only a few minutes to produce results.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Prescription medications:<\/b> There are also prescription-strength treatments for constipation, including those for opioid induced constipation (OIC). Talk to your healthcare provider if you feel that these are necessary.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Exercise<\/span><\/h4>\nPhysical activity<\/span><\/a> can help get things moving when you\u2019re constipated. <\/span>Healthy individuals<\/span><\/a> should aim for 150 minutes of movement per week, consisting of strength training and cardiovascular activities. If you\u2019re new to exercise or recovering from surgery, be sure to start slowly and check with your doctor first.<\/span><\/p>\nTake an inventory of your medications and supplements<\/span><\/h4>\nDietary supplements and prescription medications may contribute to constipation. If you\u2019re concerned that any of the supplements or medicines you\u2019re taking are worsening your symptoms, ask your provider for advice.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/b>The lowdown on laxatives<\/b><\/p>\n
Constipation is never fun, especially when it\u2019s in combination with recovery from surgery. However, by making a plan with your doctor before surgery, knowing the causes, optimizing your diet, and having an over-the-counter backup plan in mind, you can get things moving again and alleviate uncomfortable symptoms more quickly.<\/span><\/p>\n
Constipation after surgery is common, attributed to factors such as lack of physical activity, dietary changes, anesthesia, and post-operative pain medications like opioids.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Anesthesia and the duration of surgery can impact the likelihood of post-operative constipation, with regional anesthesia possibly reducing this risk.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
To alleviate constipation, it\u2019s recommended to maintain hydration, consume high-fiber foods, engage in physical activity as permitted, and use over-the-counter remedies like stool softeners and laxatives.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
If constipation persists beyond a few days, is accompanied by significant pain or bleeding, it\u2019s important to seek medical treatment to prevent complications like hemorrhoids or intestinal obstruction.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Recovering from surgery can be an unpleasant process, whether you\u2019re going through the rehab associated with a knee replacement or simply waiting for your body to feel normal following an outpatient procedure. During recovery, the last thing you want is an additional discomfort. However, whether your surgeon discussed it with you or not, many people experience constipation after surgery. Knowing what to expect and making a plan can diminish the effects of this uncomfortable surprise. Read on to find out how.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s quite common, even expected, for patients to be constipated immediately after surgery,\u201d says<\/span> Jemiel Nejim<\/span><\/a>, MD, an anesthesiologist at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. There are a variety of factors that contribute to post-surgery constipation (also called post-operative constipation), each of which generally has a larger effect on the incidence of constipation than the type of surgery itself, excluding intra-abdominal and bowel surgeries.<\/span><\/p>\n While many surgeries including obstetric, gallbladder removal, and tonsillectomy can cause constipation, intra-abdominal and bowel surgeries are well known to cause post-operative constipation.<\/span> \u201cBowel and some abdominal surgeries may cause an ileus in which the normal pulsations of the bowel stop working,\u201d says<\/span> Michael Philbin<\/span><\/a>, MD, a surgeon at Edina Plastic Surgery in Edina, Minnesota.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Lack of physical activity, pre-surgery dietary changes (including water restriction), and anesthesia given during surgery all contribute to constipation. In addition, medications used to control pain post-surgery <\/span>can cause constipation<\/span><\/a>. For example, <\/span>research<\/span><\/a> indicates that 40-60% of patients taking opioid medications, commonly prescribed for pain post-surgery, experience constipation as a side effect.<\/span><\/p>\n With other procedures, there are several underlying factors that can cause post-surgery constipation.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The anesthetic regimen administered during surgery is likely to have an effect on constipation during recovery. \u201cAnesthesia is a broad term that describes a number of different medications,\u201d Dr. Jemiel Nejim says. \u201cBoth the type of anesthesia and the surgical duration affect the likelihood of postoperative constipation. Surgeries that last longer in duration tend to be associated with a higher predisposition to constipation.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Some practices focus on using regional anesthesia over general anesthesia, which helps to reduce the number of drugs used and thus may reduce the likelihood of constipation after surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n Post-surgery constipation is also often a result of opioid pain medications, given either as part of the anesthesia or for pain relief following the surgery, according to Dr. Philbin.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n According to Inara Nejim, Pharm.D., a clinical pharmacist at Hospital for Special Surgery, \u201c<\/span>Medications<\/span> from the opioid drug class, such as<\/span> Percocet<\/span>,<\/span> oxycodone<\/span> or <\/span>tramadol<\/span>, are a cornerstone foundation in managing postoperative pain, and one of their well-known side effects is constipation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Even in daily life, dehydration is one of the most common causes of constipation. Following surgery, the body requires plenty of fluids to aid in recovery. Without them, constipation is likely to occur, so make sure to drink lots of water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The same goes for nutritional intake: Not everyone may have an appetite after surgery, but continuing frequent oral intake, especially fiber-rich foods is key to helping things move along.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Finally, a lack of physical activity, another known cause of constipation, is common after surgery. Dr. Philbin recommends working with your doctor to understand when, and for how long, you\u2019re able to safely begin to move about during recovery to help alleviate inactivity-related constipation.<\/span><\/p>\n While constipation immediately following surgery is common, especially if you are subject to some of the above factors, there are some warning signs to look out for that could indicate a more serious problem.<\/span><\/p>\n According to Dr. Philbin, you can expect constipation to last for a few days, depending on how active you are allowed to be and the amount of post-op pain meds needed. Abdominal pain due to bloating after surgery is also quite common and could be a result of trapped gas or excess fluids, according to Dr. Jemiel Nejim. These fluids tend to be excreted naturally within a few days. Mild tummy bloating can be helped by eating smaller, frequent meals and increasing physical activity. In addition, taking simethicone medications, which work by breaking up big gas bubbles in the gut into smaller bubbles, making them easier to pass, can help with bloating and gas.<\/span><\/p>\n If you experience significant pain or bleeding, or if constipation lasts longer than three days, seek medical treatment. Prolonged constipation can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and in very rare instances medical conditions such as ileus or intestinal obstruction, which require further medical interventions.<\/span><\/p>\n The good news is that there are plenty of ways to alleviate constipation caused by surgery, especially if you make a plan with your doctor ahead of time. Whether via pre- or post-surgery dietary changes or by knowing the over-the-counter treatment options, being prepared will make the process a little easier.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cIf someone has concerns before surgery regarding potential constipation, the best thing to do is to speak up and openly talk about those concerns before surgery,\u201d says Dr. Jemiel Nejim. This is especially true for those who already suffer from chronic constipation. If there are medications that traditionally work well for you, identify these with your medical team prior to surgery. If allowed by your physician, increase your fiber intake or begin a regimen of stool softeners prior to surgery if constipation is a concern.<\/span><\/p>\n According to Dr. Inara Nejim, one of the best ways to prevent complications of untreated constipation at home is by having an honest conversation about medications during the discharge process\u2014and during follow-up phone calls. A nurse will usually go over all of your prescriptions and can explain how to effectively manage constipation at home using diet and over-the-counter medication.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you are going to start a fiber supplement, make sure you also increase your fluid intake accordingly, as bulk fiber supplements can worsen constipation if you don\u2019t drink sufficient fluids. Your doctor should advise you on a gradual treatment approach to reducing constipation, beginning with stool softeners and gentle senna-based laxatives\u2014and if no benefit, advance to other stimulant laxatives such as <\/span>Dulcolax<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If your symptoms of constipation are minor or haven\u2019t lasted very long, it may be possible to alleviate the condition with<\/span> home remedies<\/span>, like adding key foods that are known to help with constipation:<\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re experiencing constipation after surgery it\u2019s best to <\/span>avoid foods <\/span><\/a>that are high in fat and\/or low in fiber content, including:<\/span><\/p>\n If the above solutions still leave you feeling backed up, the next line of defense is stool softeners or gentle laxatives.<\/span><\/p>\n If these medications fail to provide relief, the next line are mildly stimulating laxatives, suppositories and then, if necessary, enemas.<\/span><\/p>\n Physical activity<\/span><\/a> can help get things moving when you\u2019re constipated. <\/span>Healthy individuals<\/span><\/a> should aim for 150 minutes of movement per week, consisting of strength training and cardiovascular activities. If you\u2019re new to exercise or recovering from surgery, be sure to start slowly and check with your doctor first.<\/span><\/p>\n Dietary supplements and prescription medications may contribute to constipation. If you\u2019re concerned that any of the supplements or medicines you\u2019re taking are worsening your symptoms, ask your provider for advice.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/b>The lowdown on laxatives<\/b><\/p>\n Constipation is never fun, especially when it\u2019s in combination with recovery from surgery. However, by making a plan with your doctor before surgery, knowing the causes, optimizing your diet, and having an over-the-counter backup plan in mind, you can get things moving again and alleviate uncomfortable symptoms more quickly.<\/span><\/p>\nIs it normal to be constipated after surgery?<\/span><\/h2>\n
What causes constipation after surgery?<\/span><\/h2>\n
Anesthesia<\/span><\/h3>\n
Postoperative pain medications<\/span><\/h3>\n
Behavioral factors<\/span><\/h3>\n
When should I worry about constipation after surgery?<\/span><\/h2>\n
What helps with constipation after surgery?<\/span><\/h2>\n
Before surgery<\/span><\/h3>\n
After surgery<\/span><\/h3>\n
Diet<\/span><\/h4>\n
\n
\n
Medications<\/span><\/h4>\n
\n
\n
Exercise<\/span><\/h4>\n
Take an inventory of your medications and supplements<\/span><\/h4>\n