What Causes Lack Of Bowel Movement Except Mucus Defecation?

Posted on Mon, 12 Oct 2015

Question: For the past 2 days my 81 year old husband has no bowel movements. He is only passing mucous. What is the cause

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It could be due to delayed bowel movements.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
It is natural for the bowel movements to get delayed in elderly people.
He should take high fiber diet , drink plenty of liquids, eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
If there is no response, he should be given Laxative containing Polyethylene glycol solution.
If he us passing flatus, nothing to worry.
Inspite of above measures,if he doesn't pass stool, Enema has to be given per rectally.
I personally did Digital evacuation of hard stools for many elderly people.This is the last option.
Hope I answered your query.
If you have any questions, I will clarify further.
Wish you good health.
Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj