Post surgery bowel movements?

Question:

i had ankle surgery 48 hours ago and haven't had a bowel movement since. i have been eating food as i regularly do. i am healthy and active, so i usually have 3 a day. is this normal, or should i call my doctor? it doesn't say anything about it in the pamphlet i got.

Answers:
this is pretty normal after surgery as a side affect of anesthesia. Constipation can also be caused by a number of pain medications, and from also inactivity from surgery .Make sure you drink plenty of water and eat some fiber containing foods. If it isn't resolved in a day or two definately call your doc.

Constipation can be a side effect of surgery. Try some fiber and call the doctor just to be certain.

General anesthesia causes this problem. If the next 24 hrs doesn't bring relief, call your Dr.

Totally normal, due to the drugs required to put you under. It will take a little more time but you will return to normal.

Pain killers for the post-surgery, like Vicodin or Percocet (sp?) may cause constipation. Try fiber and stool softeners. That might help.

Post surgery bowel movements?

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