Inguinal hernia problems

[OldTimer74]

I`m waiting for an op on an inguinal hernia, nothing shows from the outside but part of my bowel has gone through the muscle wall bottom left. If I don`t soften my movements I have a problem pooing and pain. The doctor gave me Cosmocol a few years ago before the hernia got bad but it has gotten to the point where it needs fixing. If I don`t take the cosmocol I have problems, if I take it I am running to the loo a lot and passing lots of coloured water. I`m not sure why things have changed so much of late ( BTW I have IBS that has more or less been under control for many years.) I need something that will keep my poo soft so that it can go in and out of the hernia but hopefully without the amount of fluids I loose each time. I just had a full blood test and a FIT test that all came back normal. My movement problems started from last year after a bad infection where I was given strong antibiotics. It has taken over my life , I have been assessed for the op but obviously during the covid virus we all have to wait longer. Thanks, Dave( 76 years old)

[OldTimer74]

Anyone got any ideas to keep the poo soft without the runs? Thanks

[Meleber in reply to OldTimer74]

Magnesiumhydroxide keeps it soft. But I needed a more stimulating laxative so I'm taking cascara sagrada now. I also used bisacodyl but it was a bit too stimulating (caused pain) for my intestines and that is why I switched to cascara sagrada. Maybe you need to ask your doctor first if these are good options in your situation.

[OldTimer74 in reply to Meleber]

Thanks

[Kazzacrazy]

There's so many different meds to soften stools not all work for everyone. I've never found one that works for me so my consultant has prescribed me prucalopride it's the first time in as long as I can remember I've had normal bms but not a lot of drs will prescribe it as its very expensive and the side effects can be quite severe. With you having a hernia they might not be suitable for you. Sorry I can't be much help I hope you find something to help you.

[OldTimer74 in reply to Kazzacrazy]

Thank you

[OldTimer74 in reply to Kazzacrazy]

Thanks

[Hidden]

Hi there how much cosmocol are you taking ? I only have 1 sachet a day perhaps your taking too much ? Other people have had success with magnesium citrate , I use optifibre which speeds gut transit and softens its guar gum . I hope you have your op soon and I’ve no idea why this is underlined again !!! 😂

[OldTimer74 in reply to Hidden]

One per day Pansy2, I have noticed that Cosmocol has slightly changed of late, it used to be very fine like icing sugar but is slightly more rough of late.( more gritty) Thanks

[Hidden in reply to OldTimer74]

Maybe you could try having 1 sachet then half a sachet the next day , it’s very hit and miss with that stuff too much and your stuck on the toilet for all of eternity 🤣x

[OldTimer74 in reply to Hidden]

I have tried to lower the dose but it seems that any amount that gets into my system has a dramatic effect. Maybe it`s the covid vaccine ? Thanks for coming back to me 😍

[Hidden in reply to OldTimer74]

You could not take it for couple days then start to take it again might be worth speaking to doc about it see if they can suggest alternative x

[OldTimer74 in reply to Hidden]

I am leaving it off for a couple of days and maybe add some fruit to the diet. Till this hernia is repaired I must keep things flowing or I`m going to land up in the hospital . thanks Pansy2👍

[Hidden in reply to OldTimer74]

Blueberries and oranges good for that !!🤣x

[Dolly38]

Dave take care of yourself. I find if I have a day when I don't drink enough I get C and that is like you say hideous. Drinking water underrated. But I don't take my own advice but listening to the group is a comfort. Take care and drink water