Effective Laxatives For Post-Stent Placement Recovery

Stent placement is a procedure used to open blocked coronary arteries caused by coronary artery disease. It is a form of angioplasty, which is a procedure that restores blood flow to the heart muscle without the need for open-heart surgery. After stent placement, it is common to experience constipation. To alleviate this, a laxative may be required. There are many different types of laxatives available, but it is important to consult a doctor to determine which one is most suitable for your situation.

Laxatives to take after stent placement

Stent placement is a procedure used to open blocked coronary arteries caused by coronary artery disease. It is a form of angioplasty that uses a tiny, expandable metal mesh coil to help keep the artery open and prevent it from narrowing or closing again. After stent placement, it is common to experience some pain and discomfort, as well as constipation.

Laxatives can be an effective way to relieve constipation after stent placement. It is important to follow the advice of your doctor and take any prescribed medications as directed. Some common laxatives that may be recommended include:

• Bulk-forming laxatives: These work by increasing the bulk and water content of the stool, stimulating bowel movements. They are typically made from fibre and include products like Fybogel and Normacol.
• Osmotic laxatives: These work by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool and making it easier to pass. Examples include Lactulose and Movicol.
• Stool softeners: These work by adding moisture to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Docusate sodium is a commonly used stool softener.
• Stimulant laxatives: These stimulate the muscles in the intestines to contract and push out stool. Bisacodyl and Senokot are examples of stimulant laxatives.

It is important to note that laxatives should be used under medical supervision, especially if you have recently undergone a medical procedure like stent placement. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as increasing fibre intake, drinking more water, and being more physically active, can also help with constipation.

In addition to laxatives, doctors may prescribe other medications after stent placement to prevent blood clots, lower cholesterol, and keep arteries open. These medications include antiplatelet drugs, statins, and heart medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers. It is crucial to follow the medication schedule provided by your doctor to reduce the risk of another heart attack.

How to relieve constipation

Constipation is a common issue after stent placement. This is often due to pain medications, a lack of movement following the procedure, and changes to diet.

Medication

Speak to your doctor about adjusting your medication. Opioids and other painkillers can cause constipation, so your doctor may recommend reducing your dosage or switching to a different medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Your doctor may also prescribe a stool softener, such as docusate (Colace), or a fiber laxative, such as psyllium (Metamucil).

If your constipation is severe, your doctor may recommend stimulant laxatives, suppositories, or enemas.

Dietary Changes

A high-fiber diet can help prevent and relieve constipation. Aim to include more high-fiber foods in your diet, such as:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Legumes
• Nuts and seeds

You can also try drinking prune juice or eating prunes, which are natural laxatives.

It is also important to stay hydrated, so be sure to drink plenty of water.

Physical Activity

Physical activity can help stimulate bowel movements. Try to get moving as soon as your doctor gives you the go-ahead. Even short walks can help get things moving.

If you are unable to get out of bed, you can move your arms and legs to promote circulation and stimulate the bowels.

How to prevent constipation

Constipation is defined as three days without a bowel movement. It is a common problem, with one in five people experiencing chronic constipation. While over-the-counter laxatives are always an option, many people prefer to make natural changes to their diet and lifestyle to help prevent constipation. Here are some tips to help prevent constipation:

Increase your fibre intake

Fibre-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds encourage digestion. Aim to include fibre in every meal. Start with an apple or an orange every other day, and choose whole grain breads and pastas. Snack on nuts and dried fruits, and work your way up to 5-10 grams of fibre at each meal. The daily recommended fibre intake is 25 grams for women and 30 grams for men.

Drink more water

Aim to drink about 2 litres of liquids per day. Those who are more physically active will need to drink even more. Stick to mostly water, but warm fluids in the morning, such as coffee or tea, can help stimulate your digestion. Juices can also stimulate your intestines, so a glass of grape or prune juice can be beneficial.

Get more exercise

Any physical activity, even light exercise such as walking, can help get your insides moving. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day.

Change your bathroom habits

Adjusting the position of your body when using the bathroom can help with constipation. Try assuming a "squat" position, with knees bent and torso leaned slightly forward, or sit down and rest your feet on a small stepstool so that your knees are above your hips.

Medication to avoid after stent placement

Following stent placement, it is important to take medication as prescribed by your doctor to prevent blood clots and keep your arteries open. However, there are some medications that should be avoided after stent placement.

Firstly, it is important to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn). These medications can increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided, especially if you are also taking antiplatelet drugs. Instead, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is recommended to relieve aches, pains, and/or fever.

Additionally, decongestants such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) should be avoided. These medications can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which may be dangerous for individuals who have recently undergone stent placement.

It is also important to avoid medications that can interact with antiplatelet drugs, such as clopidogrel (Plavix). This includes drugs used to treat heartburn and acid reflux, such as Prilosec. If you are taking antiplatelets, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Furthermore, it is generally recommended to avoid herbal therapies and supplements unless specifically approved by your doctor. Some herbal products can interact with prescription medications or increase the risk of bleeding.

Finally, if you have a history of bleeding disorders or are taking blood-thinning medications, you may need to avoid aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs after stent placement. In these cases, a non-drug-eluting stent may be implanted, and a shorter course of antiplatelet medication may be prescribed.

What to do if you experience side effects

If you experience side effects after stent placement, it is important to take immediate action to ensure your safety and well-being. Here are some detailed instructions on what to do:

• Recognise common side effects: Be aware of the potential side effects of stent placement, which can include bleeding, bruising, nausea, upset stomach, chest pain, or allergic reactions. Recognising these side effects is crucial so that you can take appropriate action.
• Contact your doctor: If you experience any adverse effects, contact your doctor or healthcare provider right away. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and provide professional medical advice tailored to your situation.
• Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and how they evolve over time. This information will be valuable to your doctor in understanding the nature and extent of the side effects.
• Follow your doctor's recommendations: Your doctor may recommend adjustments to your medication regimen, lifestyle changes, or additional treatments to address the side effects. It is important to follow their advice and take medications as prescribed.
• Don't stop taking prescribed medications: Medications such as antiplatelets are crucial for preventing blood clots and keeping your coronary artery open after stent placement. Do not discontinue or modify your medication regimen without consulting your doctor first.
• Seek immediate medical attention for serious side effects: If you experience severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or heavy bleeding, seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires prompt medical intervention.
• Inquire about alternative treatments: If you are experiencing persistent side effects, discuss alternative treatment options with your doctor. There may be alternative medications or procedures that can help alleviate your symptoms while still providing the necessary treatment for your condition.
• Stay informed about your medication: Understand the medications you are taking, including their potential side effects, interactions, and precautions. Ask your doctor about any concerns or questions you have regarding your medication regimen.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Support your recovery by adopting healthy habits, such as increasing your fluid intake, being physically active, and consuming a balanced diet rich in fibre. These lifestyle choices can help reduce constipation and promote overall well-being.
• Keep a medication list: Maintain an up-to-date list of all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. Include their names, doses, and schedules. Bring this list to all your doctor's appointments to ensure your healthcare providers have a comprehensive understanding of your medication regimen.
• Be cautious with over-the-counter medications: Before taking any over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal therapies, consult your doctor or nurse. Some substances may interact with your prescribed medications, so it is important to seek professional advice to ensure your safety.

Frequently asked questions