Longtime Constipation Issues

Posted by samcal9977zz @samcal9977zz, Aug 28, 2024

Been an issue for me, for 20 or 25 years. Many problems. And was in the ER once with a diverticulitis attack. Almost had to have major colon surgery.

So, I used prune juice, a senna formula (Ex-Lax is senna, but I use a different brand), Miralax (very helpful. It's a stool softener. Until I started using it, almost nothing worked). I also, you know, eat meals like bran muffins and yogurt, I eat a soft food diet often, I also use Metamucil. Sometimes coffee seems to help. Of course, plenty of hydration, abdominal exercises too...

Anyway...a couple of things that have helped me.

And I have used that wooden stool, that elevates your legs. Well, we actually have a plastic one called "Squatty Potty."

have to get the height of it right. and if you have some problems with your knees or hips, can be an issue.

the Squatty Potty has a truly hysterical ad, if anyone wants to check in with it. A bit gross, you know, re subject matter. But if the scatological humor doesn't bother you, it is worth a look:

This Unicorn Changed the Way I Poop

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Digestive Health Support Group.

standinginfaith | @standinginfaith | Jun 18 8:13am

Oh my goodness!! That is one of the most horrible "Gut scenarios" I have ever heard!! I am soo very sorry!! I can't even imagine.. (and I thought mine were tough... you are a very courageous person..really!!) I won't ever complain about my digestive issues again!! They only thing I can say..is I have never heard of anyone having such a time (even my husband when he had liver cancer)..I don't know if you are a "believer..but I am going to pray for you...I mean pray!! "

Champ100 | @champ100 | Jun 20 11:46am

In reply to @lake3031 "It seems your Vagus nerve has been damaged somewhere along the way. You need to start..." + (show)

I actually have tried that
The muscles in my colon don't work. Even a colon prep wont give me one BM. All my drs are saying surgery is my only option now 😔

lake3031 | @lake3031 | Jun 21 2:31pm

In reply to @champ100 "I actually have tried that The muscles in my colon don't work. Even a colon prep..." + (show)

Me too, in the same boat. Have you tried 12mg injectable Relistor? This is the ONLY thing that makes me have a bowel movement

lake3031 | @lake3031 | Jun 22 2:07pm

I am HORRIBLE at most things, digital world. Do you have a post you're referring to? And sorry if I was repeating someone else's suggestion. I was just trying to share the only thing that has helped me.

A nurse once told me about a sure fire way to clean yourself out. Warmed butter and prune juice.

celia16 | @celia16 | 4 days ago

Best of luck with your search for help.

sensationalsmilesinc | @sensationalsmilesinc | 3 days ago

Talk to your Doctor about Mineral oil and applesauce. I tried every medication and nothing worked. Mineral oil is the only thing. I takr it at night before bedtime with applesauce.

llc69 | @llc69 | 3 days ago

I find that eating fresh sweet cherries stimulates a bowel movement within 24 hrs.

Lisa Lucier, Moderator | @lisalucier | 3 days ago

In reply to @llc69 "I find that eating fresh sweet cherries stimulates a bowel movement within 24 hrs." + (show)

Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect, @llc69. Thanks for the suggestion of what works for you.

This is similar to something Mayo Clinic suggests for treatment of constipation https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354259#:~:text=Eat%20a%20high%2Dfiber%20diet,happen%20with%20increased%20dietary%20fiber:

Eat a high-fiber diet. Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps the stool hold fluids. These factors give stool the right shape and weight to move through the colon. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole-grain bread, cereal and rice. Increase dietary fiber slowly to prevent bloating and gas. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend 25 to 34 grams of fiber a day depending on recommended daily calories.

I'm guessing you also have long-time constipation, llc69? If so, when did it start, and what else have you tried to treat it, if anything?

llc69 | @llc69 | 3 days ago

In reply to @lisalucier "Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect, @llc69. Thanks for the suggestion of what works for you. This..." + (show)

I just noticed that after eating cherries, I had good bowel movements.

gbear1953 | @gbear1953 | 3 days ago

In reply to @llc69 "I just noticed that after eating cherries, I had good bowel movements." + (show)

Thanks but the issue is complex and surgery is the next option so we ere hoping to hear if anyone has been through this.
It is a bit confusing because the word constipation is correct but it alone does not give the whole picture. In other words it is not just a matter of the constipation but the cause and degree of it.
Basically her bowels do not move without the electric stim device and massive help from enemas high colonics and the newest prescription laxatives.
Surgery is the hope so we hope to hear from someone who may have had surgery or heard of a type that will help

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