by Lauren12 » 20 Dec 2012, 07:59
Hi again
I don't think it'll become dangerous for you, but if you can't pass a stool, yes, see your GP.
I had three surgical procedures at different times (first was botox plus banding of haemorrhoids plus removal of skin tags, second was botox alone and third was LIS procedure). After the first procedure, I couldn't pass a stool either. I went to the GP. When I phoned, they only had emergency appointments left but I mentioned I'd had surgery two or three days previously and the receptionist gave me an emergency appointment - so if you have difficulty getting an appointment, it should persuade them when you mention you had surgery a few days ago!
I was already using Lactulose and prune juice prior to the op. When I couldn't go after the op, the GP prescribed Movicol as well. Movicol is actually available over the counter, you don't need a prescription for it, but I didn't know that at the time. It softens the stool even if the stool's already hard, if I remember. So speak to your GP about it - he or she will tell you what to do in addition to what you're already doing.
Codeine, like all opiate containing painkillers, slows down the motility in the bowel, which leads to constipation. Speak to the GP about other prescription painkillers which don't have this effect. I was prescribed Diclofenac, which is a NSAID. As with any NSAID, I had to take it on a full stomach. There are certain medical conditions which will prevent you taking something like Diclofenac (asthma is one I think), so discuss with the GP what pain relief regime to follow. You can also combine one type of painkiller with a different one. For instance, I took Diclofenac together with over the counter paracetemol. Discuss it with your GP so that you know what's safe. A word on Diclofenac though, I eventually developed a queasy stomach with it and can no longer take it (or any NSAID, even over the counter Ibuprofen) because it affects my stomach - but I was taking it for a very long time with the fissure - well over a year - which since you've now had surgery is not a situation that will likely apply to you.
Also, get your GP to have a look at the purple lump. Another thing that occurs to me, since you mention you have piles, is that it might be a thrombosed haemorrhoid. I used to have haemorrhoids, and a thrombosed external haemorrhoid does look purple, and is extremely painful!