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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How To Improve Bowel Movement?

Hello, I m a 52 yr old male. Prepping for my first colonoscopy scheduled for 10:30 am today. As per doctors orders, I took the recommended 4 Ducolax laxative pills at 5pm yesterday, then started drinking the first part of Mialax. I weighed the content 3rd exactly, split the 238 grams in half. Had my first 8oz. cup of the mixture(in water, I m diabetic so no Gatorade) and data k the remaining 3 doses in exactly 15 minute intervals. It is now 3:40am and I m to resume drinking the other half of the mixture at 4:30am. The problem is, is that nothing at all has happened in regard to my bowels moving. The last I ate was around midnight yesterday, as per instructions and I even took some prescription Senna laxative pills, figuring that I d loosen up and start passing some stools, but it didn t really work. I managed to grunt out a few nuggets yesterday afternoon, and passed more of the same around 11:00. That s it. Any idea what s going on? Do you see me canceling the procedure today? Thanx for your input. And BTW, my pharmacist gave me a 238 gram bottle of Gavilax in lieu of the Miralax, and after researching them, apparently they re both the same-polyethylene-glycol.
Tue, 13 Sep 2016
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
You can try milk of magnesia which you can get Over the counter. Take it as prescribed on the bottle since they are all different strengths and dosages. The pharmacist can help. The main issue is that your constipation sounds like a long term problem which mean the treatment is going to take a long time. You will need to take the miralax and ducolax daily - maybe even twice a day. You also need to increase the fiber in your diet with fruits and vegetables. Exercise helps. Double your fluid intake. Try to have a bowel movement he first thing in the morning when you are most relaxed.
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How To Improve Bowel Movement?

You can try milk of magnesia which you can get Over the counter. Take it as prescribed on the bottle since they are all different strengths and dosages. The pharmacist can help. The main issue is that your constipation sounds like a long term problem which mean the treatment is going to take a long time. You will need to take the miralax and ducolax daily - maybe even twice a day. You also need to increase the fiber in your diet with fruits and vegetables. Exercise helps. Double your fluid intake. Try to have a bowel movement he first thing in the morning when you are most relaxed.