Colon resection/ prolapsed colon

[Silly48429]

I am a week and a half out from surgery. I had my first bowl movement Monday and it was painful, I had some formed stools and some soft. Today I was extremely constipated, I sat in the bathroom for a half hour trying to go. Is this normal and am I going to mess up what the dr has done by straining so much? I am on a soft diet, there are certain foods I have to avoid cause they upset my stomach. I'm not sure if I should go back to the liquid diet due to having issues w/ going to the bathroom or will it get better?

[Silly48429]

Thank you for your response. Things are getting better, the only problem I seem to be having now is a lot of gas at 3 weeks out from surgery. I'm still watching what I eat, have not ate any red meats yet, I've just been having chicken for meat.

[Arti Sharma, M.D.]

Hello,
After colon resection you may have trouble digesting foods which contain large amounts of fiber, raw fruits and vegetable, high fiber cooked fruits and vegetable etcf.It is advisable to add fiber gradually to your diet. Drink plenty of fluids as you add more fiber in your diet. Sometimes after colon resection one may develop neurological damage which might be the cause of the reduced colon motility and constipation. It is advisable to consult with your doctor or a gastroenterologist. After evaluation he may prescribe you prokinetic medications if needed. Do keep me posted.
Best luck and regards!