What to Do
Promote Normal Bowel Movements
- A person should take time to have a bowel movement. Begin by having a regular habit of when to go to the bathroom, for example 30 minutes after a meal is a good time.
- For older adults or persons who have trouble bending the knees to sit on a toilet, install an elevated toilet seat and arms that attach to the toilet. This makes it easier for a person to sit on or stand up from the toilet.
- Have the person drink eight to ten – 8 ounce glasses of liquid a day, unless the doctor orders them to drink less. Placing the total recommended amount of fluid for the day in a pitcher in the refrigerator may make it easier to keep track of the total amount of fluid to drink.
- Have the person increase physical activity when they are able, such as walking more often or a bit farther, riding a stationary bike.
- Have the person increase the amount of fiber in their diet, such as wheat bran, fresh fruits and vegetables. Dietary fiber supplements, such as Metamucil and Citracel can also help.
- If constipation continues the person’s doctor may order a stool softener medicine for a short period of time.
Cleaning the Bowel for Tests and Surgery.
If a person is having surgery on the bowel, expect him or her to also have to take medicines (e.g. GoLytely®, Colyte®, Nulytely®) to clean the entire bowel. These medicines are safe. In this case an enema prevents “accidents” (leaking of stool) during surgery and constipation after surgery.
- Be sure the person takes all of the medicines ordered and at the correct time, usually in the afternoon or evening before the test or procedure.
- Some of the medicines given to cleanse the bowel require drinking a large amount of water or Gatorade over a short period of time. This is difficult if the person has trouble swallowing or becomes full easily. Tell the doctor about these problems so he can order the best medicine for the person.
- Be sure the person drinks all of the liquids. If the person has indigestion, cramps, nausea, or vomiting have them lie down and rest. But continue to have them drink fluids, but not coffee or other caffeine drinks.
- After drinking all of the liquids, the person will develop diarrhea. The stool will become almost clear once the bowel is cleaned out. This can happen quickly, or it could take several hours. It is best for you to stay close by if the person needs your help to get to the bathroom. If it is difficult for the person to get to the bathroom, keep a bedside commode close by.
- After cleaning the bowel, it is usually ok to drink clear liquids, because the person should stay hydrated. Most doctors will give you a list of fluids that are ok to drink until a test is completed.
- It is usually ok to drink water, clear broths (chicken, beef, or vegetable) , apple juice, popsickles without fruit, lemonade, Kool Aid, tea, or coffee. However, most doctors do not want a person to drink soda, red colored Jell-o or popsicles, or cherry, cranberry, strawberry or red grape juice before a test or procedure.