UC for three years, no constipation until now....

I was diagnosed with UC 3 years ago, and since then I've always had the typical symptoms of diarrhea, regional abdominal pain, bloody stool occasionally, etc., but I've never had any constipation until now.  For the past 4 days I've been backed up, only 1 light movement in the morning, instead of the usual 3-4 moderate to heavy movements that I've grown used to throughout the day.  My whole abdomen below my navel is tender, and I feel like I'm carrying a brick in my lower belly.  It's painful to walk, stand up, lie down, and urinate.  (basically any movement or pressure on my gut is uncomfortable.)

I haven't tried anti-contipation OTC drugs, not sure if I'm supposed to with UC.  I've heard of toxic megacolon, where your colon freezes up and can't process anything, possibly leading to a rupture....very serious stuff.  But, most descriptions of that also include a fever, which I haven't really experienced.


My doctor can't see me until tomorrow, so my question is, should I wait until then and endure a fifth day of this, or should I go to urgent care and see what's up?

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Welcome to the MedHelp forum!
Usually this is due to build up of gas because of something you ate. The distension, pressure etc is due to gas, and not due to stool per se. You can try stool softeners, but not much and prolonged use should be avoided. Taking probiotics and drinking water and fluids (not alcohol/wine/beer) helps. Avoid high fiber and high milk/milk product diet. Take care!