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Suggesrt Treatment For Constipation Due To Tramadol Intake
Question: I was taking Tramadol for shoulder pain. i ended up very constipated. ended up trying push too hard. Now my rectum is very sore. Very painful to go to bathroom. Also I am bleeding. What do I need to do? Is there a home treatment to ease this pain?
Brief Answer:
Yes, home treatment will suffice.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome to Healthcare Magic!
Tramadol is an opioid and so, it can cause constipation. The same can happen with other opioid analgesics like oxycodone and hydrocodone.
It appears that due to straining, you have torn the mucosal lining of the anus, forming an anal fissure. It will take some time to heal and home treatment will do. Though severe and chronic cases require surgery.
You should do the following things:
1) Stop Tramadol to prevent further constipation.
2) Take a stool softener or laxative for the next week to make bowel movements more comfortable and allow for the healing of the fissure.
3) Include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains in your diet each day. These foods are high in fiber. You can also take fiber supplements daily.
4) Take some exercise daily if your physical condition allows it, as this will prevent constipation. A brisk walk will do.
5) Do not strain when having a bowel movement.
6) Sitting in a tub filled with a few inches of warm water (sitz bath) for 20 minutes 2 or 3 times a day soothes the torn tissue and helps relax the internal anal sphincter. This helps heal the anal fissure. Do this regularly.
Avoiding constipation, using stool softeners and taking sitz bath helps the fissure to heal quickly. If the pain is too much, applying creams like Anusol which contain an anaesthetic, may help.
Enjoy your wine. Please feel free to ask in case you need any clarifications.
Best wishes.
Dr Preeti Parakh
MD Psychiatry
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
You said it can take some time to heal. Can you give me an estimate. I have a job. This is very uncomfortable.
Brief Answer:
As below.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
The actual healing of the fissure will take weeks. But the discomfort should be gone in a couple of days, though straining for bowel movements will bring it back and may also cause a bit of bleeding. Please use Anusol/Tucks or other such creams for relief from discomfort. Avoid constipation and take some stool softener so that you do not have to strain.
I do not think you need to stay at home. Sitz bath can be taken at least twice a day and more frequently on the days you are free.
Best wishes.
Dr Preeti Parakh
MD Psychiatry
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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