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My colorectal surgeon told me the itching comes from seepage and frequently we can't even see or tell it is happening. Keep the anal area really clean and as dry as possible. Use a barrier cream. I like Calmoseptine. To thicken the stool, I like drinking Metamucil once or twice a day. Sometimes eating oatmeal does the trick for me. Good luck on finding what works for you. Lots of trial and error.
I've had similar experiences recently, and I second the Metamucil suggestion! When I have a day or night that I feel like I have to go but don't pass very much, I take plain psyllium husk. That's all Metamucil is but with added ingredients to improve the look/flavor. I mix it in a glass that is mostly juice and a little water. It takes a few hours to work, but it works very well for me. The closest to a normal BM I've had in ages. I take it every day now, actually. It's good to drink some extra water after because, as I understand it, it absorbs water from the intestines. Also, I've read that it can interfere with supplement/medicine absorption so give yourself 1-2 hours before/after to take other medicines or supplements.
I hope it works for you or that you find something that does! Feel free to message me if you have any questions about it!
