Painkillers & Constipation

I used to think that constipation was “just” not being able to go. I learned better when I was on a high dose of painkillers, it’s awful! Lactose worked for me and I really, really hope something (anything!) works for you RebeccaJames.

I'm so sorry, been here recently after lower intestinal surgery, not fun. I had to stop taking the painkillers, and it took quite a while for it to pass.

I really would recommend a squatty potty step stool, it did help

Thank you. It's awful. I really need to go but nothing happens!

I take zo-morph which, if I'm not very careful, causes horrendous constipation. I take softeners, fibre supplements and senna at night. I also drink plenty of water and a glass of orange 🍊 juice every day. This seems to work for me but we are all different aren't we?? Hope you manage to find something which helps you

Earlier in the year following an accident I was on Oxycodone, gabapentin and maximum dose paracetamol, also couldn't get any exercise. I found lactulose worked well, but I took it regularly until I was off all the painkillers. Also try to up your fibre intake and keep well hydrated. It's horrible but you will get it sorted.

It's awful isn't it?
I'd never had constipation before, either.

A big bar of chocolate sounds like the nicest way to get things moving.

Thanks so much everyone. I've never had this problem before. I just can't go.

Try cooled down boiling water...have you tried prunes or figs? I take co-codamol daily and sometimes find myself in your predicament..also pure orange juice can help too..am assuming you have the fybogel sachets ...i don't like the taste but combined with above, they should work ..also dark chocolate!

Lactulose is a gentle way of shifting "things" now, but it's really best to keep on top of the problem by not allowing it to get to this state (take it from one who knows!)
A nice Epsom Salts bath may do the trick.

Lactulose works very well.

I think it’s co-codamol (sp?) that causes constipation in our house. Drink plenty of water and eat some fruit.