HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Suggest Medication For Bloating In A Person With History Of Colitis

default
Posted on Tue, 30 Jun 2015
Question: I have been bloated past few days as digestive system full and seem to be totally blocked up. I had colitis approx 9 years ago and I am wondering what I could take to clear my bowel. I have been drinking water eating fruit etc but doesn't seem to have any effect. Thank you.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Lactulose is a safe laxative with history of colitis.

Detailed Answer:
I am sorry you are having difficulty.

With a history of colitis, lactulose is considered a safe and effective laxative.

Usual dose is 15 ml of lactulose by mouth, once a day; and repeated until normal bowel function resumes.

Lactulose is an "osmotic laxative" meaning it draws water into the stool.

If you have a history of this problem happening, once this episode passes you might want to try a soluble fiber agent such as methylcellulose (Citrucel is a brand in the U.S.) which doesn't ferment. This can help keep your bowels regular. But start with only a small amount at first.

In terms of dietary help, stewed prunes can sometimes be helpful. Or prune juice.

There are other laxatives available, such as Docusate sodium, but if there is any risk that you are completely obstructed, it would not be advisable to take this one.

I hope this information helps and that your are feeling better soon! Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.



Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 3134 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Suggest Medication For Bloating In A Person With History Of Colitis

Brief Answer: Lactulose is a safe laxative with history of colitis. Detailed Answer: I am sorry you are having difficulty. With a history of colitis, lactulose is considered a safe and effective laxative. Usual dose is 15 ml of lactulose by mouth, once a day; and repeated until normal bowel function resumes. Lactulose is an "osmotic laxative" meaning it draws water into the stool. If you have a history of this problem happening, once this episode passes you might want to try a soluble fiber agent such as methylcellulose (Citrucel is a brand in the U.S.) which doesn't ferment. This can help keep your bowels regular. But start with only a small amount at first. In terms of dietary help, stewed prunes can sometimes be helpful. Or prune juice. There are other laxatives available, such as Docusate sodium, but if there is any risk that you are completely obstructed, it would not be advisable to take this one. I hope this information helps and that your are feeling better soon! Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.