I have had this same thing happen twice. I've ended up in the ER because the pain was so excruciating. Even went to get a colonoscopy and after drinking two jugs of colon blow I still couldn't go. I thought that I would die.
Best advice ever...MIRALAX. Use it as much as you want. My GI doctor told me it is 100% safe and you can use it until the day you die. If you get impacted like that drink a full cap in a beverage once every hour until you go. I know this from experience. Also- a mineral oil or glycerin suppository can also help- but not if you are seriously seriously impacted.
I don't want anyone to ever feel the way that I did, so please take my advice.
You really need to get to a doctor and have them help you.......sara
when you are obstructed you have other symptoms as well get some miralax you can take 3 capfuls a day it worked for me
Gwen...Yes,this hurts a lot. I'm sending you a private message....
>>>When a person is impacted,the stool is completely down in the lowest end of the colon but is dry and can't move out<<<
Yes, OMG it hurts so bad. This is what I have becasue its way worse than anything i've had before.
Thanks for everyone's help.
Hi~ There's a difference and you would know...At this point it almost doesn't matter!!
You just need to GO! When a person is impacted,the stool is completely down in the lowest end of the colon but is dry and can't move out. It's caused by a decrease in peristalic action. That needs to be stimulated soooo...get yourself a laxative ASAP.
Correctal is a good one and fast. Take it and drink plenty of water. Like a lot of water.
If you have severe cramps,fever and feel faint,you need to call your doctor.
Good luck!
Vicki
>>Are you constipated or impacted?<<
What's the difference between being constipated and impacted? How can I tell which one I have? I just know its bad. I've had major problems going to the bathroom before, well all the time really, but its never been THIS bad. Thanks
Are you constipated or impacted? Impaction can be extremely painful. I think all narcotic medications have a side effect of constipation and impaction. If you're taking narcotics on a regular basis, you need to be taking something to help you go to the bathroom regularly. Talk to your doctor about what they think is best. I use Miralax, 2 capfuls twice a day in a drink. (It's flavorless but I don't put it in water as it makes the water cloudy and that puts me off. I usually put it in juice.) Some people use stool softeners.
If you're at the point where you're severely constipated, you need to use a suppository or give yourself an enema (it's really not as bad as you think, and once you can go, you'll feel so much better.)
It's best to stay ahead of this problem if you're on narcotics. It's easier than trying to get out of the situation. Don't be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about this. I find most doctors don't talk about this side effect, or if they do, they sort of minimize it. It can be so very uncomfortable at best and down right painful at its worst.
Good luck.