Neuropathy and constipation

Posted by korgman123 @korgman123, Nov 6, 2022

I've always had issues with constipation. I've got SFN now for 2 years in my feet and hands, numbness mainly, and notice my constipation is getting worse. Any suggestions?

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Thanks John and all of you who took time to answer. I believe I am experiencing dysautnomia affecting my bowels. I love tea and will look in to those.

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@louise1942

Unfortunately taking more fiber with a non working colon only leads to a backup in the colon. The muscles that are supposed to get the colon to move the food along aren't working and so it sits there and compacts and loses moisture content and hardens. I have been taking a generic form of Miralax and at least it keeps it from hardening but it doesn't move any faster.

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That’s what I have found too

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@kyc117

That’s what I have found too

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I found that same issue also- noted especially when I joined WW in 2014 and suffered horrible constipation from all the fiber.😩

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I have had excellent results when I take Sugar-free Metamucil before bedtime every night with 500mg Stool Softener. I hope this works for you too.

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I don't know if Neuropathy has anything to do with constipation? In any case, it is one more thing to deal with that I have had some advice and good results. There is a product called 'Colon Max" that is all Natural and can be bought online. Just a bit of info from PA. We need to share all of our discoveries and ideas, right? Keep it goin!

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@louise1942

Unfortunately taking more fiber with a non working colon only leads to a backup in the colon. The muscles that are supposed to get the colon to move the food along aren't working and so it sits there and compacts and loses moisture content and hardens. I have been taking a generic form of Miralax and at least it keeps it from hardening but it doesn't move any faster.

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Same with me

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I also have chronic constipation and bloat from neuropathy. Currently I try to increase my fiber intake by eating chia seeds, soluble fibers, and taking this product called Triphala. I find that these combinations really help me with this GI issue. Hopefully this continues to help.

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@fala

I don't know if Neuropathy has anything to do with constipation? In any case, it is one more thing to deal with that I have had some advice and good results. There is a product called 'Colon Max" that is all Natural and can be bought online. Just a bit of info from PA. We need to share all of our discoveries and ideas, right? Keep it goin!

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On top of all these neuropathy symptoms, I had emergency surgery last Nov for a perforation of my small intestine.
I was septic, and was in the hospital for 3 weeks, almost died.
Now since my wound infection,which took 6 mos to heal, sometimes after I eat, I get violent cramping and severe diarrhea which I can’t control.
Seems like once I’m done, diarrhea is over.
Went to a gastroenterologist and recently had bloodwork done to rule out any malabsorption probs, Celiac disease,etc.
Did not get results back yet, but I know I did suffer from constipation,prior to the diarrhea episodes.
I also don’t go at times for a week.
I sure this is all due to my neuropathy condition.

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Hi Harley! It is so nice when someone actually responds to a post. One thing I know for sure is BECAUSED of this site, I am never alone with any kind of pain. There is always someone who knows that particular pain/problem.
Of course I am aware that this nasty PN is progressive. Yes, it is going further and further up my calves. ... BUT guess what? Out of NOWHERE two days ago the pain MORE than DOUBLED! My feet are screaming in pain! I massage them, I tried to walk more, I have a foot vibrator that even warms up! Tried that. Nothing works, I am mad. I know that doesn't help. My ordinary everyday health as old age gets more personal, is going downhill on a sled! Vision started getting worse, legs are swelling, neck problems getting much worse....bla, bla, complain!!
Does anyone want to hear al this? Probably not. Ok, ok, here is my excuse...I live alone, and I am tired of talking to myself!! This is my recreation, fellow victims of nerve problems. Yes, yes I know there are lots of people worse off. (Just needed to let off a little steam)
Love to hear from the group with ideas or just talk!

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@kle

I also have chronic constipation and bloat from neuropathy. Currently I try to increase my fiber intake by eating chia seeds, soluble fibers, and taking this product called Triphala. I find that these combinations really help me with this GI issue. Hopefully this continues to help.

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I'll just throw this in. I was at my PCP today. For the constipation thing... she said to take equal parts of bran, applesauce and prune juice. Yep, weird combo. Yep, I will let you know...hahaha this is so strange to talk about!

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