Brief Answer:
Questions for you to help me answer you better.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX

I am sorry to hear this trouble.

Please tell me:
1. How many days has it been since you last had a bowel movement?
2. What laxatives or stool softeners have you tried for this current episode of constipation?
3. How many doses of each have you taken?
4. What other health problems do you have and what medications if any do you take for them?

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Brief Answer:
Information:

Detailed Answer:
Ok, thanks for the additional information.

As it's been a week, and as you've tried the stool softener for 3 days, the next step would be to consider an enema such as a Fleets enema.

I recommend you continue to use the stool softener until this current episode resolves, but also use the enema now. If it's been a week, you may need two enemas.

If that doesn't help, the next step is to go in to your doctor or urgent care clinic for help. They may do a digital disimpaction if the stool is impacted in your rectum.

After this current episode is over, talk with your doctor about a plan to help prevent constipation in the future, such as taking a fiber laxative like Metamucil or Citrucel. If your doctor thinks this would be a good idea for you, start with a very small amount and gradually increase, to prevent causing excess gas and bloating. But do NOT use one of the fiber laxatives now as it could make the current problem worse.

I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information.

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Brief Answer:
Information:

Detailed Answer:
With digital disimpaction, you lay on a cot on your left side, with your knees, especially the upper knee, drawn up as far as possible.

The nurse will drape you.

You take short, panting breaths during the procedure.

Using clean disposable gloves, the doctor or nurse will lubricate one or two fingers and insert carefully into the rectum until the stool is felt; then rotate the finger gently.

Before removing finger, the nurse or doctor will gently stimulate the anal sphincter with a rotating motion.

Then you will go to the bathroom when you feel the urge.

This procedure usually both frees impacted stool, and stimulates the need to defecate. It usually works well if all else fails.

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Brief Answer:
Ok

Detailed Answer:
Ok, sounds like a good plan. Continue to take the stool softener tonight though.

I hope you are soon feeling better.

Best regards,
Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, MD

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