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Failed prep for colonoscopy: What can I do?

Digestive Health | Last Active: May 16 10:35am | Replies (156)
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@wifeworry

My husband just went through prep while in the hospital. He was admitted after being seen in the ER for suspected blockage. Scan showed no obstruction, so admitted for observation and prep. Prep consisted of: 1st day "nothing by mouth", then 2 - 1/2 days clear liquid diet, plus 3 suppositories, 2 enema's, 2 laxatives, and 7 liters of "PEG-3350 & Electrolytes", and the Dr. still just rated the clean-out as just as "fair". How can this be???? What else could he possibly do? Dr. performed the procedure and told us it is a "slow moving gut". Anyone else have a similar experience? I am worried!

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Replies to "My husband just went through prep while in the hospital. He was admitted after being seen..."
Teresa, Volunteer Mentor | @hopeful33250 | Jan 11, 2023

Hello @wifeworry and welcome to Mayo Connect. A diagnosis of "slow transit constipation" is common as we age and also if we have other health conditions and/or take medications that slow down the muscle contractions in the intestinal tract.

Many medications that are used to treat health conditions do slow the digestive tract. There are also neurological diagnoses like Parkinson's, MS that can cause the gut to slow down.

As with any problem involving constipation a change of lifestyle is needed. More exercise, more liquids, high fiber foods and the addition of products that provide bulk, like Metamucil can help. Also, the addition of stool softeners is good.

Did the doctor give your husband any information on how to treat this problem?

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