Hard bowel movement | Bowel movement after gall bladder surgery

Hard bowel movement

After an operation, especially in the abdomen, the intestinal tract often needs some time to get going again. Especially painkillers, such as opiates, which are administered during the operation, inhibit intestinal movement. Water is removed from the food pulp on its way through the intestine.

The longer the intestinal passage takes, the harder the stool becomes. Fluid intake or the intake of food or medication that increases bowel movement can counteract the constipation. Similarly, surgical manipulation can restrict the movement of the bowel for a short time or scarring or twisting for a long time. If the problems persist in the long term, it is essential to clarify the cause, since in the worst case, intestinal obstruction is imminent.

What can I do to stimulate my bowel movements after a biliary surgery?

First of all you should drink enough liquid (2-3 liters of water per day) to soften the stool. In addition, light exercise, e.g. in the form of walks, stimulates digestion. Fiber can also be used to stimulate digestion, it swells up in the intestines.

The increased volume stimulates the intestinal muscles and improves peristalsis (intestinal movement). Fiber-rich foods are e.g. cooked vegetables, peas, lentils or linseed. True wonders are also performed by herbs such as coriander, aniseed, fennel or caraway, especially in the form of warm drinks.

In the first 2-3 weeks after a gall bladder removal, you should avoid flatulent, fatty and difficult to digest foods such as onions, cabbage, pulses, beans, yeast, raw vegetables, coffee, sugary drinks. If required, mild laxatives can also be used (e.g. lactulose). If constipation persists for a longer period of time, you should consult a doctor.

Duration of the change in bowel movement after biliary surgery

Normally, digestion is regulated in the first 2-3 days after the operation. Patients usually do not have to follow a special diet. In the first 2-3 weeks, patients may have to refrain from eating bloated and hard to digest foods.

Occasionally, constipation or diarrhea may last a little longer, especially if the patient has had digestive problems before. Problems that persist for more than a month, the appearance of black stools or the complete absence of bowel movement for more than a week, a doctor should be consulted.