ibs-d and facing surgery

[BasilG]

I’m having a knee replacement on Wednesday and worried about my ibs-d as bad at the mo. I’m taking loperamide but worried that if I take too many with the combination of strong painkillers I’ll end up constipated. Also concerned that as im having an epidural I wont be able to feel if I need to go😩

[b1b1b1]

I completely understand. I would explain your concerns to the doctor before the surgery, but I have found sometimes the MD doesn't really listen to this type of concern as they are more worried about the actual surgery itself. After the surgery discuss it with the nurse. They are more used to dealing with constipation and/or diarrhea issues as these are very common in the hospital. I was told this by a nurse when I had surgery. I was given Senna which took care of the immediate problem and then told to take Colace. Also find out how long the epidural lasts. Also, find out how you would actually get to the bathroom after the surgery. I had a hip replacement and getting to the bathroom was difficult. I am sure it will work out, but I know the worrying about these matters is the worst. x

[Whitesugar]

Don’t be too concerned. The body seems to shut down those urges for a while when you have major surgery. You may have a painkiller put into the area of the knee so there is no need to take anything immediately after surgery. I seem to remember it lasts until the next day. The spinal block lasted into the early hours of the morning for me and I had the operation mid afternoon. Good luck

[Colin_B]

I was in hospital a couple of years ago, with a fractured pelvis. I didn't have surgery but was given strong painkillers. These had the effect of "bunging me up" and I didn't need to take the loperamide to deal with my stomach cramps etc. In fact I wasn't allowed out until "I'd been" and had to take Senna until things started moving again.

[MatthewU]

It's very likely that your condition is worse at the moment due to stress and anxiety due to the impending procedure on your knee. Long term use of Loperamide is really not a solution to an on going problem with IBS. You should look at the Fodmap diet as a starting point and modify what you are eating and drinking as required, take high count wide spectrum probiotics each day. If non of this helps the a low dose of Citalopram will destress you and your gut. Good luck with the knee operation and remember to religiously do the exercises given if you want a full and complete recovery.