This topic revolves around concerns about bowel complications after using stimulant laxatives, particularly the fear of nerve damage and the potential need for an ileostomy. Here's a breakdown of the situation and some advice that might be helpful:
- A 60-year-old individual with a T9 spinal cord injury, which occurred 40 years ago, experienced bowel impaction after taking a bulking agent combined with a stimulant laxative without enough water. This led to constipation issues that required more intensive treatment than usual.
- Previously, constipation was resolved with Movicol in two days, but this time it took four days, and the impaction returned shortly after. The current medical advice is to continue using Movicol until a gastrointestinal appointment, while also taking Senna tablets nightly.
- There is a concern about the possibility of permanent bowel or nerve damage, and the individual is worried that severe damage to the colon might necessitate an ileostomy. Upcoming medical evaluations might include a CT scan, colonoscopy, or a Sitz-marker study to get a clearer picture of the situation.
- The individual regrets the long-term use of stimulant laxatives, having been on Senna since March of the previous year and Lactulose for about a month. They are looking for stories from others who have successfully stopped using Senna after long-term use.
- They have read about someone who improved their bowel function using a combination of Oxypowder colon cleanse, flaxseed, a specific diet, and occasional Triphala.
- Their primary doctor believes the recent episode should not have caused any damage, but the individual still feels uneasy and is considering requesting a colonoscopy for further investigation.
Here are some pieces of advice and insights:
1. Try not to jump to conclusions about worst-case scenarios, like needing an ileostomy, before all investigations are complete. Wait for a thorough gastrointestinal work-up, which may include a CT scan, colonoscopy, or Sitz-marker study, and be open to possible medication adjustments.
2. Maintain close communication with your healthcare provider. Report any changes in your condition promptly and seek clear diagnostic information.
3. If symptoms persist despite the current laxative regimen, a colonoscopy could be a wise next step. It can help identify any structural issues that other tests might miss.
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