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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Severe Constipation, Bloating Discomfort In The Stomach. Could It Be Due To Excessive Fiber Intake?

Hi, I have been quite constipated for a couple of weeks now. I took some laxatives but they did not work, so yesterday I ate lots of figs, dates and fruit and fibre cerial, and today I have been. However over the past 2 weeks I have had some, bloatedness pain and discomfort on my left side (almost under my rib cage) and today although I have been to the toilet - it is actually worse and has stayed with me all day. Could there be anything else causing this pain, or could it be perhaps that I consumed too much fibre ? I am due to travel abroad on saturday, so am wondering if I should get this checked out before I go. Thanks
Sat, 6 Jul 2013
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello dear,

Though symptoms like bloating, pain and discomfort may be caused due to excessive fiber intake, but not constipation.

The causes of constipation can be:
1. Any pathology/ sub acute obstruction in the Gastrointestinal tract
2. Irritable bowel syndrome- constipation predominant type.
3. Functional cause- due to decreased gastric motility
4. Less fluid intake
5. Prolonged use of certain medications.
6. Hormonal & Metabolic causes, etc.

Though symptomatic relief can be obtained by intake of Laxatives, their regular use is not advised.
And as long as the underlying cause is not treated, symptoms will keep recurring.

So, kindly consult a Gastroenterologist & get a proper physical examination done.
Investigations like complete blood count, Ultrasound scan of abdomen, Colonoscopy & contrast studies will be helpful to rule out any pathological cause for your symptoms.

There is no need to worry, you will be fine.
Till then, take healthy nutritious diet, exercise regularly and keep away stress.

Wishing a good health.
Take care.
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Severe Constipation, Bloating Discomfort In The Stomach. Could It Be Due To Excessive Fiber Intake?

Hello dear, Though symptoms like bloating, pain and discomfort may be caused due to excessive fiber intake, but not constipation. The causes of constipation can be: 1. Any pathology/ sub acute obstruction in the Gastrointestinal tract 2. Irritable bowel syndrome- constipation predominant type. 3. Functional cause- due to decreased gastric motility 4. Less fluid intake 5. Prolonged use of certain medications. 6. Hormonal & Metabolic causes, etc. Though symptomatic relief can be obtained by intake of Laxatives, their regular use is not advised. And as long as the underlying cause is not treated, symptoms will keep recurring. So, kindly consult a Gastroenterologist & get a proper physical examination done. Investigations like complete blood count, Ultrasound scan of abdomen, Colonoscopy & contrast studies will be helpful to rule out any pathological cause for your symptoms. There is no need to worry, you will be fine. Till then, take healthy nutritious diet, exercise regularly and keep away stress. Wishing a good health. Take care.