Bowel Problems

My mother was diagnosed with GBS in early September, she was treated with IVIG and released to a rehab facility shortly after the treatment. One of her issues is severe abdominal pain and constipation. She has been able to have occasional bowel movements with the assistance of stool softeners, etc., but she is very concerned about becoming too dependant on them. The vicious cycle seems to be severe constipation, inability to eat because of it, pain , pain meds that prevent her from participating in rehab activities, loss of weight and strength – then temporary relief from the problem. I know this is a difficult subject to discuss for many people, but it is frightening to her and she doesn’t seem to have consistent input from nursing staff and doctors.

I am hoping to find more forum discussion about this, thank you for bringing it up here.