Constipation! (Pain meds make it worse)

Posted by woundedbear64 @woundedbear64, Jun 18, 2023

I've been taking opioid pain medication for over thirty years now, I have had trouble with constipation as a young man, but after adding in the opioid it's gotten out of hand.
Does anyone have any good remedies for constipation, or at least stool softening?
I naturally only have a bowel movement once a week, the doctor said some people are like that, but add in rock hard stool, and constipation and you have a great deal of pain to deal with.
I think straining on the toilet is what caused my current spinal cord problems, I have two shunts, so I'm not supposed to strain, but I just can't help it, any help will be well appreciated!
Thank you.

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claudeconstantineau | @claudeconstantineau | Sep 20 9:51am

I am using CHIA grains which you can get at natural foods stores.

If you do a search on the Net you'll get a lot information about this natural grain, word of caution, drink water or juice, 2 to 3 glasses after taking te Chia.

Best to you,

Claude

julbpat | @julbpat | Sep 21 8:04am

I learned of a product called ColonMax on these forums. I purchase it on Amazon, and take 1-2 at night. I also take prescription Motegrity every morning. I use Miralax as needed. I have small fiber polyneuropathy, which makes lots of my bodily functions work wrong, plus Percocet for pain.

archie2 | @archie2 | Sep 22 2:46pm

Hi-
Check with Gastroenterologist about Lactulose. This is an inexpensive, well-tested solution (it is a liquid like cough syrup) for constipation. Rx only but, depending on your current meds, may be a good answer.
Archie

Ann Shrader | @annshrader | Sep 23 5:43am

Having a bm once a week? Not really normal? Considering what we eat, what goes in comes out, so I wonder if once a week is an underestimate of what should happen.

Highly recommend mindfulness-based stress (and pain) reduction programs to help with the constipation and pain management.

All the best.

kmh29 | @kmh29 | Sep 23 7:39am

I have had chronic constipation for many years. I take a daily medication called Linzess that helps. However, for natural methods try Prune juice....drink 8 oz. before bed and you should have a bowel movement in the morning. I also eat Ezekiel bread.....it is loaded with fiber and sold in the freezer section of the grocery stores. Eat a few pieces and drink lots of water with it. Good luck and I hope these help.

SusanEllen66 | @SusanEllen66 | Sep 23 11:15pm

Has anyone tried rubbing castor oil on your skin?
Castor oil, even when applied to your skin (arms, legs, stomach) has a laxative effect. Using castor oil is a wonderful skin softener however if you use too much you will be on the toilet the next day!

It’s natural. Magnesium lotion has the same effect!

maricopajoe | @maricopajoe | Sep 24 11:31am

I've had the same issue. Six different meds for opiod constipation. The only thing that works is Senna. 2 at bedtime and 2 in the morning. Your mileage may vary.