Constipation after reversal

Hi Dolphin67 and welcome to the group.

It sounds as if you’re dealing with a lot, but you are only 5 weeks from your surgery and people in the group have reported that it can take time for things to settle. I have a colostomy, so can’t help with your question, but my reply will bump your post up to the top of the discussion again and hopefully other members will come along and reply. 

Sarah xx

My names Adrian  in had a reversal 2yrs ago of my ileostomy and was the same as you ,I had this feeling of being full all the time even after going to the toilet.This is  called tenesmus I approached my ileostomy  nurse and she recommended  Quo fora irissedo mini go irrigation,  this a small squeezable bottle filled with warm water that you insert into your anus and then squeeze,  hold for a moment then go to the toilet, absolutely  immense  relief been fine ever since also on repeat prescription. Hope this helps.

Hi there

I had two ileostomy reversals and also struggled with constipation. My surgeons did not like the laxatives that 'irritate' the bowel, but prefered stool softeners which are safe for long term use (like Lactolose and Movicol). I have been on  Lactalose and then later Movicol and both worked well for me. Both I took them in the evening - the Movicol made my tummy grumpy but if I took it at night it was fine. The Lacalose caused gas, but same thing if I took it at night I was ok. I would also say both drugs are gently - and don't work instantly. I found the Movicol takes about 24hrs to work. My mom also has a colon condition and she is permanently on Movicol and says exaclty the same thing - don't expect a instant remedy, it takes about 24hrs. 

So, in a nutshel - I would suggest speaking to you surgeon or GP about stool softners (like Lactalose or Movicol). 

My surgeon was also big on drinking enough water - and he was right, I was drinking too much coffee and not enough water, so that also helped. 

Good luck. I know I felt a lot better when I was not constipated!