Could I have a bowel obstruction?

[clpwithconstipation]

For about a year I have been having bouts of constipation and nausea.  I have used stool softners and Activia with a little relief.  I just found a doctor who prescribed me lactulose and it isn't working either.  I can feel a large lump in my right side. A while back I pushed this lump very hard while trying to have a bowel movement and with a lot of effort passed a very large hard stool.  What do you think this could be?


This discussion is related to problems with stomach and intestines.

[lisa6013]

I have actually had a bowel obstruction, as as the other member has said, you would for sure know it from the pain!  The pain was worse than when I had my gall bladder attacks years ago....  when I had mine, after 8 hours of relentless pain (yes, I waited that long...), I had to call 911.  I was admitted to the hospital, and the next morning it got so bad that I was vomiting bile... I had to have emergency surgery at 2 in the morning...  Miralax is wonderful for keeping you regular.  My nine year old son has been on it for five years.  No cramping, very gentle.  It used to be prescription only, but now is over the counter.  If you are still concerned, of course you should call your doc's office.  If you don't like the answers you get, find another doctor.  Sometimes you have to shop around!  Best of luck to you!
lisa :)

[mammo]

If it were a blockage, you'd know it by the pain.  If you suffer with constipation sometimes a "ball" of stool can become lodged in the bowel, and can actually be felt.  If the lump is now gone, I wouldn't worry, and get on Miralax.  It is non addicitve and is sold over the counter.  It also isn't a stimulant so you won't have the issues associated with a stimulant laxative.  If the lump is still there, or returns, see a GI doctor for evaluation.