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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Bloated With Constipation. Tapering The Use Of Laxatives. How Can I Feel Better?

Hi there after 2 years of stimulant laxative abuse I have decided to stop cold turkey (I got up to taking 20 a night, reducing it to 3 times a week) I have been laxative free now for just over a week following a strict high finer diet and exercise, I'm extremely worried though as I haven't had a single bowel movement since the last time I took laxatives. I constantly feel the urge to go but no matter how hard i try i just cant. As expected I am hugely bloated and I am severely uncomfortable - I feel (and look) like I could burst. I'm just wondering how long it should be until a normal movement occurs? Or have I completely ruined my bowel, will I ever get better?
Mon, 3 Jun 2013
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello dear,

It is appreciative that you have decided to stop using laxatives & presently following a strict high fiber diet and exercise.

Causes of Constipation include:
1. Functional cause- due to decreased gastric motility
2. Irritable bowel syndrome- constipation predominant type.
3. Less consumption of fiber rich foods
4. Less fluid intake
5. Prolonged use of certain medications.
6. Hormonal & Metabolic causes, etc.

Though symptomatic relief can be obtained by intake of Laxatives, their regular use is not advised due to the risk of dependance & other unwanted side effects.
However, as long as the underlying cause is not treated, symptoms will keep recurring.

So, kindly consult a Gastroenterologist & get a proper physical examination done.
Investigations like Ultrasound scan of abdomen, Colonoscopy & contrast studies will be helpful to rule out any pathology in the Gastrointestinal tract.

You can ask me any further query on this website using the below link: http://www.healthcaremagic.com/doctors/dr-polash-sannigrahi/64925

There is no need to worry, you will be fine.

Wishing a good health.
Take care.
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Bloated With Constipation. Tapering The Use Of Laxatives. How Can I Feel Better?

Hello dear, It is appreciative that you have decided to stop using laxatives & presently following a strict high fiber diet and exercise. Causes of Constipation include: 1. Functional cause- due to decreased gastric motility 2. Irritable bowel syndrome- constipation predominant type. 3. Less consumption of fiber rich foods 4. Less fluid intake 5. Prolonged use of certain medications. 6. Hormonal & Metabolic causes, etc. Though symptomatic relief can be obtained by intake of Laxatives, their regular use is not advised due to the risk of dependance & other unwanted side effects. However, as long as the underlying cause is not treated, symptoms will keep recurring. So, kindly consult a Gastroenterologist & get a proper physical examination done. Investigations like Ultrasound scan of abdomen, Colonoscopy & contrast studies will be helpful to rule out any pathology in the Gastrointestinal tract. You can ask me any further query on this website using the below link: http://www.healthcaremagic.com/doctors/dr-polash-sannigrahi/64925 There is no need to worry, you will be fine. Wishing a good health. Take care.