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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Strained Bowel Movement And Hard Stool When Diagnosed With COPD?

I am a nurse. My pt had a bowel resection several years ago, currently being treated for COPD exacerbation (heavy mouth-breather), drinks abt 750ml h20 daily, eats prunes, and takes senna 8.6mg & Colace 100mg bid. Activity is limited. No narcotic use. She states Miralax is ineffective. She reports hard stool in the vault and must strain to pass. I know she can double up on her bowel treatment but, would something else be more effective?
Fri, 27 May 2022
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hi,

Isabgol husk given in a proper adjusted doses in 200 to 400 ml of water along with lunch and dinner helps the most by retaining water with stool so that it does not become hard at the end and passes out easily. COPD exacerbation leads to reduced intake of food and water hence a probable cause.

Senna irritates the bowel to cause bowel movement hence may not be very effective and in fact can cause pain in abdomen. Miralax doses may be adjusted as per the requirement and may not hep in many patients. Passing Glycerin suppositories before passing stool helps in some cases. Change of diet to continue with foods and beverages that do not cause constipation will help further.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. T. Chandrakant, General Surgeon
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What Causes Strained Bowel Movement And Hard Stool When Diagnosed With COPD?

Hi, Isabgol husk given in a proper adjusted doses in 200 to 400 ml of water along with lunch and dinner helps the most by retaining water with stool so that it does not become hard at the end and passes out easily. COPD exacerbation leads to reduced intake of food and water hence a probable cause. Senna irritates the bowel to cause bowel movement hence may not be very effective and in fact can cause pain in abdomen. Miralax doses may be adjusted as per the requirement and may not hep in many patients. Passing Glycerin suppositories before passing stool helps in some cases. Change of diet to continue with foods and beverages that do not cause constipation will help further. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. T. Chandrakant, General Surgeon