stomach is distended and hard and painful

[Guest Posts]

Hi There,
I have sjogrens, fibromyalgia, diabetes 1.5, hip problems, slipped discs in my back etc etc.
I am on Tramadol, paracetamol, lidocaine plasters, duloxotine, repatha injection, ramipril, 2 diabetic pills and other bits and bobs.
I have been on these for a few years as this combination works for my pain usually.
However I have to take 4 Bisacodyl every day as I have very bad constipation due to the pills and IBS.
My stomach is distended and hard and painful. My GP said it is something I have to live with.
As I only go to the loo 1 to 3 times a week, I wondered if you had any suggestions?

Regards,
Heidi

[Dr Jamal Hayat]

Dear Heidi,

Bisacodyl is considered a stimulant laxative, so you may benefit from an additional laxatives in addition eg macrogol. This can be used short term at an increased dose to relieve the symptoms of faecal impaction which may be responsible for some of your pain. If you have tried this before you could potentially benefit from alternative laxatives, or topical treatment with either suppositories or enemas (which I admit is not always the most practical solution but does provide significant relief for some patients). Given your difficulties - you may benefit from seeing a specialist if you are unable to get any further help in primary care.

Kind Regards,

Jamal Hayat

[Roxichik]

Thank you very much for your suggestions. Much more useful than 'try a spoon' as one GP suggested.
I will give them a go when I need to, I do really appreciate your help.
Regards,
Heidi