Q&A

Can I take laxatives after gastric bypass surgery?

Can I take laxatives after gastric bypass surgery?

Do not ignore the defecation reflex because delaying the defecation causes the stool to become harder and more difficult to pass. If the above does not help, you can use laxatives (without a prescription) and food supplements. Treatment with laxatives should not exceed one month.

What laxatives are safe after gastric sleeve?

Stool softeners such as Colace are available over–the-counter. If you find your constipation problem continues, you may use a Dulcolax suppository, Fleets enema or Milk of Magnesia. If the problem continues to present itself, do not hesitate to call your surgeon’s office.

How do you get rid of constipation after gastric sleeve?

You can improve regularity by eating raw fiber vegetable every day. Starting about three weeks after weight loss surgery, you may increase your intake of vegetables, and beans to improve regularity. Drinking plenty of water may be the most important thing you can do for constipation.

Can you take fiber supplements after gastric sleeve surgery?

After bariatric surgery, it can be difficult to obtain adequate fiber from foods due to much smaller portion sizes so taking a fiber supplement or using foods with functional fiber may be beneficial. Aim for consuming 15 grams of fiber for every 1000 calories that you eat.

How often should you poop after gastric bypass?

Many people report only having a bowel movement every two or three days following weight loss surgery. This can lead to constipation. It is important to keep track of your bowel habits and try to have a bowel movement every day.

Is it normal to not poop after gastric sleeve?

This can be a common condition post-op, and sometimes people that have gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) experience significant changes in their bowel movements as a side effect. Most of the time, constipation is a temporary condition that doesn’t have serious complications associated with it.

How long can you go without pooping after gastric sleeve?

After surgery, you may be going only every other day. As a general rule, if you have not had bowel movement in 2 to 3 days or if going becomes painful or uncomfortable, contact your doctor. As with any medical condition, you should always consult with your doctor before beginning a specific treatment.

How often should you poop after gastric sleeve?

Is Skinny poop normal?

Narrow stools that occur infrequently probably are harmless. However in some cases, narrow stools — especially if pencil thin — may be a sign of narrowing or obstruction of the colon due to colon cancer.

What is considered a thin stool?

Stringy poop may also be referred to as stools that are pencil-thin, ribbon-like, thin, or narrow. Normal stool is about one to two inches in diameter. Stringy poop is narrow and, in some cases, almost flat, giving it a stringy appearance.

What should I expect when taking a laxative?

Side effects to expect when taking a laxative include the following: Bloating and gas Stomach cramps Diarrhea Nausea Loss of electrolytes Dehydration

What is the safest laxative for long term use?

Laxatives work in different ways, and the effectiveness of each laxative type varies from person to person. In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.

What should you drink after taking a laxative?

You should not feel so ill after taking a laxative. You can eat and drink if you feel up to it. In fact, you want to try to stay hydrated so sips of fluids like water, tea, juice, ice chips etc.

How long does it take to have bowel movement after laxative?

They may take up to 2-3 days before they start to work. Stimulant laxatives – these stimulate the digestive tract walls, speeding up bowel movements. Usually, they take effect within 6-12 hours. Stool softener laxatives – these decrease the surface tension of stools so that they absorb more water, making them softer.