What Causes Lack Of Bowel Movement Except Mucus Defecation?

Posted on Sun, 20 Sep 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 20 Sep 2015 Answered on

Mon, 12 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : For the past 2 days my 81 year old husband has no bowel movements. He is only passing mucous. What is the cause

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It could be due to delayed bowel movements.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
It is natural for the bowel movements to get delayed in elderly people.
He should take high fiber diet , drink plenty of liquids, eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
If there is no response, he should be given Laxative containing Polyethylene glycol solution.
If he us passing flatus, nothing to worry.
Inspite of above measures,if he doesn't pass stool, Enema has to be given per rectally.
I personally did Digital evacuation of hard stools for many elderly people.This is the last option.
Hope I answered your query.
If you have any questions, I will clarify further.
Wish you good health.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj