To @part: I posted my comment because I am curious if there are other medical conditions that create this situation I have been experiencing non-stop since mid-January. If it’s not medically significant, I can just move on, but I don’t want this “change in bowel habits” to be a symptom of something significant and ignore it. Hydration is super important to the body. And I try to force myself to drink water all day long, especially when I wake when the body has had nothing for 6-7 hours. Thanks for your input.
Gastroenterologist don’t have many answers when it comes to constipation. They will certainly recommend fiber, miralax, water, other drugs but root cause seems mostly unknown. The newest research that is bringing excitement is related to microbiome. I can suggest that if you started any new medicines - even over the counter- prior to your issues then investigate the medication. Best of luck
I am a 68 year old female of normal weight, active and w/o new health issues. In January my bowel movements changed overnight; there has been no change in diet or hydration, activity level, meds (only Rx is beta blocker for a PSVT that appeared 3 years ago). I went from having normal looking stools to passing small “stones” (Bristol scale image 1). I went to see gastroenterologist who said, “Let’s start with colonoscopy.” That sounded reasonable as it was almost ten years since the last one which was 100% normal. Well, so was this one. I am almost two weeks past thar test, and my stools went right back to small stones. I poop on a regular time schedule, and there is no-strain to pass the stools. I am scheduling a follow up with the same doctor, but I am curious if any one has lived through this. Probiotics change nothing. Thank you.
Thanks for taking time to comment. I certainly have some hesitancy in going back to doc with my complaint, but I also don’t want to ignore that my digestive system just went through a major readjustment—unless it’s not uncommon for these things to happen to some people. I have no way of knowing about any of this. Physicians aren’t train to day, “Ah, it’s probably nothing. Just forget about it.”
I am a 68 year old female of normal weight, active and w/o new health issues. In January my bowel movements changed overnight; there has been no change in diet or hydration, activity level, meds (only Rx is beta blocker for a PSVT that appeared 3 years ago). I went from having normal looking stools to passing small “stones” (Bristol scale image 1). I went to see gastroenterologist who said, “Let’s start with colonoscopy.” That sounded reasonable as it was almost ten years since the last one which was 100% normal. Well, so was this one. I am almost two weeks past thar test, and my stools went right back to small stones. I poop on a regular time schedule, and there is no-strain to pass the stools. I am scheduling a follow up with the same doctor, but I am curious if any one has lived through this. Probiotics change nothing. Thank you.
I am undergoing the first part of a SIBO treatment at the moment and have struggled with conistaoation since starting Cron for EPI.
So far the constipation and diarrhea overflow issues and gas have been the best since 2019. I changed back to a strict low FODMAP diet, but this time, I broke it up into six meals, with one capsule of Creon 36,000 each meal. The hardest thing is making sure I don't overeat portions; that takes vigilance and pretty much eliminates sharing a meal with anyone, but it has been worth it.
My energy levels have improved, but I made the mistake of dining out, and while the meal I had was supposed to be OK, it wasn't. This seems to have resulted in bloating, energy loss, even feeling feverish 5 hours later, with some bowel urgency. It seems that for now I have to stick to this, but my constipation at least improved.
I am a 68 year old female of normal weight, active and w/o new health issues. In January my bowel movements changed overnight; there has been no change in diet or hydration, activity level, meds (only Rx is beta blocker for a PSVT that appeared 3 years ago). I went from having normal looking stools to passing small “stones” (Bristol scale image 1). I went to see gastroenterologist who said, “Let’s start with colonoscopy.” That sounded reasonable as it was almost ten years since the last one which was 100% normal. Well, so was this one. I am almost two weeks past thar test, and my stools went right back to small stones. I poop on a regular time schedule, and there is no-strain to pass the stools. I am scheduling a follow up with the same doctor, but I am curious if any one has lived through this. Probiotics change nothing. Thank you.
I sympathize with what you're going through. I'm 70 y/o now, but started to suffer from Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) when I was 68.
I too am very active, in the gym everyday, 5x/week spinning along with resistance training. Weight is normal. Anyway, I meet the "keep moving" part of the advice to deal with CIC. (And CIC is fancy medical jargon for - we have no idea why you are constipated.)
I've tried different approaches, some prescription drugs (Motegrity seems the best, but it is now cost prohibitive and there is not a generic). Now I rely on Dulcolax (bisacodyl) - an OTC stimulant that is not supposed to be used very long, or to only relieve "periodic" constipation. I know I shouldn't be taking it as much as I do, so please don't take this as advice for you. It isn't, just wanted to share my problem with CIC.
I'm sorry I don't have better news. I do take Miralax every night, and eat a diet with a lot of fresh fruit and a lot of fiber.
Please let me know any progress you make. Did your GI Dr have any suggestions? (The good news is the clean colonoscopy.)
I did. My experience was very similar. Right now, I’m doing really well. I’m off daily miralax. But, I never know when it will return. I’m scheduled for a SIBO test soon. I tried all kinds of remedies, prescription meds, etc. not much helped, except daily miralax that gets old…..my body returned to almost normal on its own….no idea why. I have been under gastroenterologists care for several years. I eat right, focus on veggies and fruits, exercise, sufficient water….but I don’t think that is my problem. Not sure what caused it. It’s frustrating.
do not understand why no one is talking about Linzess? I have just been subscribed that as a solution to my chronic constipation after SBO, diverticulitis, 3 bouts of CdIff, and utter misery over the last 8 months. Now I am too scared to take it!
do not understand why no one is talking about Linzess? I have just been subscribed that as a solution to my chronic constipation after SBO, diverticulitis, 3 bouts of CdIff, and utter misery over the last 8 months. Now I am too scared to take it!
I am a 68 year old female of normal weight, active and w/o new health issues. In January my bowel movements changed overnight; there has been no change in diet or hydration, activity level, meds (only Rx is beta blocker for a PSVT that appeared 3 years ago). I went from having normal looking stools to passing small “stones” (Bristol scale image 1). I went to see gastroenterologist who said, “Let’s start with colonoscopy.” That sounded reasonable as it was almost ten years since the last one which was 100% normal. Well, so was this one. I am almost two weeks past thar test, and my stools went right back to small stones. I poop on a regular time schedule, and there is no-strain to pass the stools. I am scheduling a follow up with the same doctor, but I am curious if any one has lived through this. Probiotics change nothing. Thank you.
IBSC is the pits! I’ve had it for at least 50 years and it’s no picnic! The only regime that I have is morales in my morning coffee. Then, I need at least 1hr. on the potty to get relief. This usually works. For me, it’s a “mind game!” My brain wants to control my movements. I also go to an acupuncturist and as corny as it sounds, he gives me some needles for constipation. My protocol is not perfect but I can lead a fairly normal life. Good luck to you!!
I am a 68 year old female of normal weight, active and w/o new health issues. In January my bowel movements changed overnight; there has been no change in diet or hydration, activity level, meds (only Rx is beta blocker for a PSVT that appeared 3 years ago). I went from having normal looking stools to passing small “stones” (Bristol scale image 1). I went to see gastroenterologist who said, “Let’s start with colonoscopy.” That sounded reasonable as it was almost ten years since the last one which was 100% normal. Well, so was this one. I am almost two weeks past thar test, and my stools went right back to small stones. I poop on a regular time schedule, and there is no-strain to pass the stools. I am scheduling a follow up with the same doctor, but I am curious if any one has lived through this. Probiotics change nothing. Thank you.
It’s difficult to say what works. So, I believe there may be many options. This past Thursday was good for me. I did nothing special for my diet or exercise. But, I had a completely normal BM. I was shocked! So happy! Of course, nothing since then. Sigh.
do not understand why no one is talking about Linzess? I have just been subscribed that as a solution to my chronic constipation after SBO, diverticulitis, 3 bouts of CdIff, and utter misery over the last 8 months. Now I am too scared to take it!
I was prescribed Linzess first for my chronic idiopathic constipation and it did nothing for me but before the insurance cartel allows your doctor to prescribe something else you have to take it for six months. So after that bit of hoop-jumping I finally was prescribed Motegrity and Trulance. I take both every day and they work, along with a bidet which I highly recommend, and occasional use of Miralax. I wish you the best in getting something that works for you. It’s a long and winding road.
I was prescribed Linzess first for my chronic idiopathic constipation and it did nothing for me but before the insurance cartel allows your doctor to prescribe something else you have to take it for six months. So after that bit of hoop-jumping I finally was prescribed Motegrity and Trulance. I take both every day and they work, along with a bidet which I highly recommend, and occasional use of Miralax. I wish you the best in getting something that works for you. It’s a long and winding road.
Hi,
I have been on linzess, amitiza and now Motegrity. I also see a pelvic floor therapist. I still have overflow diarrhea from constipation and am waiting to see a motility specialist. How did you get your doctor to prescribe both medication for you?
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Gastroenterologist don’t have many answers when it comes to constipation. They will certainly recommend fiber, miralax, water, other drugs but root cause seems mostly unknown. The newest research that is bringing excitement is related to microbiome. I can suggest that if you started any new medicines - even over the counter- prior to your issues then investigate the medication. Best of luck
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
4 ReactionsThanks for taking time to comment. I certainly have some hesitancy in going back to doc with my complaint, but I also don’t want to ignore that my digestive system just went through a major readjustment—unless it’s not uncommon for these things to happen to some people. I have no way of knowing about any of this. Physicians aren’t train to day, “Ah, it’s probably nothing. Just forget about it.”
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI am undergoing the first part of a SIBO treatment at the moment and have struggled with conistaoation since starting Cron for EPI.
So far the constipation and diarrhea overflow issues and gas have been the best since 2019. I changed back to a strict low FODMAP diet, but this time, I broke it up into six meals, with one capsule of Creon 36,000 each meal. The hardest thing is making sure I don't overeat portions; that takes vigilance and pretty much eliminates sharing a meal with anyone, but it has been worth it.
My energy levels have improved, but I made the mistake of dining out, and while the meal I had was supposed to be OK, it wasn't. This seems to have resulted in bloating, energy loss, even feeling feverish 5 hours later, with some bowel urgency. It seems that for now I have to stick to this, but my constipation at least improved.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
3 ReactionsHi Barb,
I sympathize with what you're going through. I'm 70 y/o now, but started to suffer from Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) when I was 68.
I too am very active, in the gym everyday, 5x/week spinning along with resistance training. Weight is normal. Anyway, I meet the "keep moving" part of the advice to deal with CIC. (And CIC is fancy medical jargon for - we have no idea why you are constipated.)
I've tried different approaches, some prescription drugs (Motegrity seems the best, but it is now cost prohibitive and there is not a generic). Now I rely on Dulcolax (bisacodyl) - an OTC stimulant that is not supposed to be used very long, or to only relieve "periodic" constipation. I know I shouldn't be taking it as much as I do, so please don't take this as advice for you. It isn't, just wanted to share my problem with CIC.
I'm sorry I don't have better news. I do take Miralax every night, and eat a diet with a lot of fresh fruit and a lot of fiber.
Please let me know any progress you make. Did your GI Dr have any suggestions? (The good news is the clean colonoscopy.)
All the best my friend. FWIW, you are not alone.
Joe
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Like -
Helpful -
Hug
3 Reactionsdo not understand why no one is talking about Linzess? I have just been subscribed that as a solution to my chronic constipation after SBO, diverticulitis, 3 bouts of CdIff, and utter misery over the last 8 months. Now I am too scared to take it!
I think I had to jump through hoops to get insurance coverage for it, then it worked a couple of days then nothing. I’d take it if it helped.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionIBSC is the pits! I’ve had it for at least 50 years and it’s no picnic! The only regime that I have is morales in my morning coffee. Then, I need at least 1hr. on the potty to get relief. This usually works. For me, it’s a “mind game!” My brain wants to control my movements. I also go to an acupuncturist and as corny as it sounds, he gives me some needles for constipation. My protocol is not perfect but I can lead a fairly normal life. Good luck to you!!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionIt’s difficult to say what works. So, I believe there may be many options. This past Thursday was good for me. I did nothing special for my diet or exercise. But, I had a completely normal BM. I was shocked! So happy! Of course, nothing since then. Sigh.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI was prescribed Linzess first for my chronic idiopathic constipation and it did nothing for me but before the insurance cartel allows your doctor to prescribe something else you have to take it for six months. So after that bit of hoop-jumping I finally was prescribed Motegrity and Trulance. I take both every day and they work, along with a bidet which I highly recommend, and occasional use of Miralax. I wish you the best in getting something that works for you. It’s a long and winding road.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHi,
I have been on linzess, amitiza and now Motegrity. I also see a pelvic floor therapist. I still have overflow diarrhea from constipation and am waiting to see a motility specialist. How did you get your doctor to prescribe both medication for you?
Thank you.
Lisa