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Infrequent Bowel Movements, No Effect Of Metamucil. Concerned
Question: My daughter (40 years old) has a history of infrequent bowel movements, which normally occur about 2-3 days apart. However, it has now been 6 days since her last movement and she is becoming concerned. Metamucil has no apparent effect.
Any suggestions?
Regards, XXXXXXX Melrose
Any suggestions?
Regards, XXXXXXX Melrose
Hi XXXXXXX
Constipation is a very common problem. We are often trained that we must pass motions daily but physiology says that atleast 3 motions in a week is normal. Some people simply have slower movement of the GIT which causes less frequent bowel movements.
Is the lack of bowel movements causing distress ? Is there any bloating of abdomen ? Is there any pain or loss of weight ?
If there is no to each of the above questions that you need not be worried. If yes we need to evaluate further.
You can start off with a thyroid function test and routine blood investigations. If there is loss of weight we might consider going for a colonoscopy. Else the best idea is to continue metamucil , take lots of fibers in diet and if that doesn't work we can consider other medications. Remember fibers are the safest and most natural way of a good bowel movement.
Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help
Regards
Dr. Om Lakhani
Constipation is a very common problem. We are often trained that we must pass motions daily but physiology says that atleast 3 motions in a week is normal. Some people simply have slower movement of the GIT which causes less frequent bowel movements.
Is the lack of bowel movements causing distress ? Is there any bloating of abdomen ? Is there any pain or loss of weight ?
If there is no to each of the above questions that you need not be worried. If yes we need to evaluate further.
You can start off with a thyroid function test and routine blood investigations. If there is loss of weight we might consider going for a colonoscopy. Else the best idea is to continue metamucil , take lots of fibers in diet and if that doesn't work we can consider other medications. Remember fibers are the safest and most natural way of a good bowel movement.
Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help
Regards
Dr. Om Lakhani
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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