After my recent ALIF fusion back surgery (anterior lumbar interbody fusion), I was in a world of pain. Not because of the crazy major surgery to my back and abdomen - but the constipation.
Anesthesia and Surgery, and Opioid Constipation
Anesthesia alters gastrointestinal motility, secretion, and absorption. The anesthesia and the antibiotics they sprayed into my intestines do a number on anyone. Then it's compounded by opioid constipation. It's almost 4 weeks to the day as I write this article, and two weeks since I stopped the opioid and muscle relaxers - yet if I don't consume the right things twice a day - I am in trouble. The constipation is quickly so uncomfortable. Like 10 months pregnant uncomfortable. And with a healing abdominal incision - this stretching and squishing makes for a terrible day and really uncomfortable sleep.
How I helped my constipation after ALIF surgery:
They prescribed a stool softener that contained docusate and sennosides. I tried to follow their dosage and even doubled it and it did not help. Every 24 hours was unbearable. So what helped? I make a quick shake in my blender containing:
Mag Go Kids Kid Safe Magnesium Constipation Relief - I already have this essential for my 4 year old just in case we need it. I take 2 of the little scoops in the early daytime and 2 scoops at night before bed
Aloe Digest Enzymatic Herbal Relief - This was already a part of my daily shakes protocol. I used to add 2 tsp to organic juice or coconut water. I doubled this to 4 tsp. I also add 3 drops of Fulvic Zeolite to help draw toxins and heavy metals out of my body. Read more info on my daily superfoods regimen.
Being constipated while recovering from abdominal surgery is no joke. Like I said it was worse than my new disc fusion and the abdominal cut as is. This has helped me. I look forward to healing and not needing the added magnesium and solely using my superfoods protocol as my gut returns to its healthier pre-surgery state.
Warm Regards,
Jess
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