Bowel obstructions caused by adhesions following abdominal surgery

I have not had to use my finger to induce vomiting during a bowel obstruction attack because when I'm in a full on attack I automatically become nauseous and can't stop vomiting. But fortunately that hasn't happened for years, probably because I can now recognize the early signs and immediately stop eating solid food. But back between 2010-2013 I did nurse myself through multiple obstructions at home by taking stool softeners until I started to pass stool. My last full attack was in 2013 and that one took 16 hours to pass. Important to note that all of my obstructions have only been from strictures and not full blockages. Another absolute necessity when being in a full attack for me is my heating pad. Can't live without it on my abdomen, pretty much 24/7.

In the interest of TMI, my problem comes w very loose stools. EMTs usual first question -- have you had recent bowel movement? like none is the cause of problem.
I'm recently wondering if problem is as much gastroparesis as stricture.

I was in hospital for 6 weeks for bowel blockage from previous surgeries, 2 c sections, hernia and adhesions was the problem. They did a removal of blockage by laparoscopic to limit additional problems. Was ok for a year but watching what I eat that is low fiber has given me contipation. Now on Metamucil that has fixed the constipation but at times I can actually feel a lump forming on my right side that feel like food ball. I walk and drink lots of water and it subsides. Any sugggstions, is this the Metamucil ,?
I 80 , fit and no weight problems, suggestion for what to eat that will provide me with constipation relief without Metamucil?

Shaleenv, I eat cooked spinach every day..keeps me going…
Plus, it provides nutrients…any leafy green will do.. make them soft….
R

That's probably a good question to ponder. Have you ever had a gastric emptying study?

Thank you. Am just doing liquids today as I feel the mass is moving along and am producing gas. Will eat very light diet for few days, problem starts when I have to eat normal food. Seems like what I eat is good for while and problems reoccur again. Will be starting a food diary , maybe this will help. Had no problems for a year after obstruction but slowly problems creeping up. Balance of fibre to reduce constipation and not get bound is
problematic. Will definitely try your suggestion and maybe need to cook my veggies more mushy

I was in hospital for 6 weeks for bowel blockage from previous surgeries, 2 c sections, hernia and adhesions was the problem. They did a removal of blockage by laparoscopic to limit additional problems. Was ok for a year but watching what I eat that is low fiber has given me contipation. Now on Metamucil that has fixed the constipation but at times I can actually feel a lump forming on my right side that feel like food ball. I walk and drink lots of water and it subsides. Any sugggstions, is this the Metamucil ,?
I 80 , fit and no weight problems, suggestion for what to eat that will provide me with constipation relief without Metamucil?

My doctor told me to try miralax which seems to be helping me at the moment but I am still pretty new to this. I meet with him today and am going to ask for a referral to a dietician/nutritionist at the mayo clinic in Phoenix. It's a few hours away from me but I am willing to make the drive for knowledge and help. I will let you know if I learn anything new.
I have read a lot about massaging your stomach as well, people say it seems to help, I've been massaging mine just to get used to doing it and maybe help a little

I think message is like snake oil. Adhesions are very strong and can’t be massaged away. If massage worked, doctors would be telling you to get messages instead of surgery. If you have had too many surgeries and the surgeon don’t recommend another surgery, they would recommend message yet they don’t. I have also asked a few doctors and they say it won’t help. I asked my trainer for a referral to a massage therapist and this therapist said it won’t help.

Yah I talked to my surgeon yesterday and he said the same thing, it won't really help. I think for myself it is more of a comfort thing, I do it to comfort myself, especially when I am scared that it is about to happen again. He did refer me to a nutritionist though and I am looking forward to meeting with them and learning better diets which is whaty surgeon did suggest. Low fiber diet.