Hello, chelse10e,
You are in the right age group to have IBS or
Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
This is due to the fact your contractions in the large bowel are slower
than normal. If you are also experiencing
abdominal pain and bloating
along with
constipation, you meet the criteria for IBS. Environmemtal
factors, dietary factors can aggravate the problem. Lack of adequate
fiber intake and liquid intake makes this condition worse.
Miralax which is
polyethylene glycol solution helps to break up the hard
stool and put moisture to make it liquidy.
The bleeding that you mention is probably related to small hemorrhoids
due to straining or a small fissure or crack around the anus.
I really want you to increase your fiber intake by eating more whole
grain cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables along with enough water daily.
Regular excercise like walking 2-3 miles/day three times a week is
very helpful.
You can stay on the Miralax and adjust the dose up or down to keep the
stool near normal. There are over the counter cortisone containing creams
that you can apply around the anal opening to help heal the hemorrhoids
and fissure if you have them. If the problem becomes severe, you should
consult a gastroenterologist for further guidance.
Wish you well.