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DiscussionProblem with Chronic constipation
Digestive Health | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (809)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "I have been constipated for yr. It seems like the last couple of yrs after I..."
Thank you. I am 58. Blessings
I've dealt with constipation for over a year. It has taken some time and perseverance on my part pushing for proper healthcare in order to sort out and manage it. Over these months I've learned many factors can play into constipation. A colonoscopy as others have recommended can help to rule out serious ones. For that reason it can be very helpful at helping to identify the underlying issues at hand, even if it does so by only ruling things out. In competent hands a colonoscopy is a very route procedure. Something even as simple as a unchecked diaper rash can wreak havoc in the lower G.I. system. Hang in there, help is at hand for those who don't listen to any doctor who may have gotten up on the wrong side of the bed.
@suzzee3 -
I am not a healthcare practitioner but have read a lot about constipation and suffered from it myself. It turns out for me the cause was taking my nausea medicine Ondansetron. Once I stopped that medication I found a significant Improvement. I have also read that certain pain medications can lead to constipation. I'm glad that you are going to get a colonoscopy because I have lost several friends because their colon cancer was not diagnosed in time. The most recent one died at 28 years old. He had been having GI issues but hadn't seen a doctor because he didn't have insurance. Once he got a job and got insurance he got a colonoscopy but it was too late. I am wishing you well and hoping that you find answers very soon.
annabelle
Could it be hemorrhoids? Is there a little blood on the toilet paper when you wipe?
When I was slightly anemic I started eating more fruits and vegetables with both high fiber and iron, such as spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, figs and dates. Perhaps it's worth a try to work more of these foods into your regular diet?
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@suzzee3
Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect!
If you have checked this Digestive Diseases Support Group you’ll see that chronic constipation is an all too common concern.
However, each one of us is different.
I think it’s a great idea to request a colonoscopy instead of only relying on a cologuard test. You didn’t mention your age, but colonoscopy is appropriate at any age with abnormal colon function.
Find out who your physician recommends and request a referral- or self refer if your health insurance lets you.
Please get back to us with the results! We are all learning from each other.