Constipation

[Aalistoun]

I am on Butec 5 for pain and getting constipated. I problem is I urinate a lot when I am constipated and I can't control it so have to wear a nappy. Has this happened to anyone else?

Thanks

Ashleigh

[Bowler]

Ashleigh, we found Movicol worked well for constipation. Vary the dosage depending on need. We also used Betmiga to help with the overactive bladder.

[Mary C]

Hi Ashleigh,
Yes constipation can make you urinate more because the bladder and colon are situated close by.If colon is full of faeces it can put pressure on bladder to pass urine.
Added to this immobility can cause constipation.
The district nurses suggested a few different laxatives and doses.Currently I take half dose of Laxido half a dose in the morning.

A friend of mine who doesn’t have MND but had a stroke ended up in hospital due to being impacted and in terrible pain.A few enemas later she was relieved to pass the faeces.
Its finding a laxative that suits you with advise from district nurses.

Good luck
Mary

[Rosemary6NT]

I've found that adding kefir to my diet helps

[matthew55]

I wear a nappy and I'm 56. 😉😂😁😘xx

[Aalistoun]

Thanks for all your responses I will ask GP for help. Matthew55 I am 49 and I wear a nappy. Doesn't the nappy hurt you?

[Aalistoun]

Rosemary6NT I can't eat anymore.

[Ellie]

I am on Butec 5 for pain and getting constipated.

Once anybody starts taking opioids, laxatives should also be prescribed - opioids and constipation go hand in hand...

You may need to clear any impacted poo before starting on daily maintenance laxatives, so ask your GP. Movicol/Laxido is good for clearance, sometimes a suppository is needed to attack the constipation from both ends, then you'll find your own regimen from 'pushers', 'softeners' and 'gut health' products, as well as making sure you take plenty of water and (the right type of) fibre.

When you're on the loo, raising your knees can help (I use a kid's bathroom step)

Once your bowels are being emptied regularly, you'll know if you have an overactive bladder or if it was a distended bowel pressing on your bladder making you pee so often.

Good luck on sorting out your constipation Ashleigh. xx

[Aalistoun]

Thanks Ellie I am on Docusate Sodium but not working I will ask Palliative Care nurse for another one. I used a glycerine suppository that worked well I will ask my wife to get me one today. I can't do it myself

[Ellie]

I am on Docusate Sodium but not working I will ask Palliative Care nurse for another one.

Docusate is only a softener, you need to also take a pusher - I take Docusate and Senna everyday, and Movicol, when needed. xx

[Aalistoun]

Thanks Ellie

[matthew55]

My nappy doesn't hurt just sticks to me occasionally. I'm 100% tube fed and use sodium piscolate when I need a number 2 as passing solids is almost impossible for me. 🙅♂️😉😁😘xx

[Aalistoun]

Thanks Matthew mine hurts me I will speak to Palliative Care about getting an air mattress and cushion

[Ellie]

... mine hurts me

Do you mean your skin is sore from wearing them Ashleigh, or that they're uncomfortable on you, full stop? xx

[shelly21]

I'm on fortisip fibre liquid food and it really helps me stay regular. I'm on butrans patch and low dose oramorph and I'm still regular.