Severe Constipation

I had a consultation with a health specialist (A certified Physician's Assistant trained at Stanford). She recommended 2 tablespoons of psyllium itself and not the capsules and that has made a difference. I use it in the morning with 3 or 4 prunes in my oatmeal. Also, I had 4 (weekly) sessions of acupuncture. In addition if I am expecting to have some difficulty (surgery this week with two doses of codeine for pain) I will take one capsule of Triphala (made from 3 types of fruit). After more than 8 years of chronic constipation, I no longer have that problem.

In addition, I do not take any medications on a regular basis and the Triphala dose is taken at bedtime with morning results.

Also, I do take probiotics at certain times when I feel that they are needed. I drink one bottle of kombucha per day. These two things focus on the bacterial health of the colon. I have also been advised to take Kimchi (fermented) which has not been pasteurized but have not found a supply.

Hi Gastrochic,

Have you tried mineral oil at bedtime? And there is a study showing that olive oil works as well (which is likely the better option, as it is a food). Experiment with the dose.

@brendaharvey
hi Brenda:
Not sure if this is the correct way to do this so this message will reach you. We had some "interaction" on the blog a few months ago and you were telling me you had the pyloroplasty procedure. I had my procedure just over two weeks ago and ended up back in the hospital 3 days later with a major intraabdominal abscess. I still have a drain in place and will be on IV antibiotics for 3 more weeks - the whole thing has been "very challenging" (mostly related to the infection). It just seems this could all have been avoided if they discharged me on antibiotics!! When i asked about it i was told "it is not customary and you received intraoperative antibiotics" It just does not seem to make sense to me since they cut into your stomach which is loaded with bacteria and obviously this creates high potential for intra-abdominal infection. Please can you let me know when you had your pyloroplasty procedure if you were on antibiotics when you were discharged. Furthermore - i know it has been "some months" since you had your procedure. Can you eat totally normally now or just "better than before" Hopefully you see this message and can respond.. I attempted to research it online but cannot find anything since it is not that common of a procedure
Thanks Denise

Start very slowly with magnesium citrate as mikalar suggests. When it works, it really works. Plan to spend the day at home, or very near a restroom!

I didn't know statins caused constipation. Interesting.

I'm really sorry to hear that you're going through such a challenging time with severe constipation. It sounds incredibly frustrating. 😔 Have you considered consulting with a specialist in gastroenterology? They might be able to offer more tailored advice or explore different treatment options. It's great that you're open to seeking advice from places like the Mayo Clinic – they are known for their expertise. Wishing you the best in finding a solution and some relief! 🌼

Does anyone here have experience with Relistor for Opioid-Induced Constipation? It is very expensive. I'd just like to know if it works. Thanks all! Joe

I have suffered from severe constipation for over 30 years. Tried all over the counter and prescription drugs. Linzess worked for a while but then stopped. I have just recently tried Inulin, purchased on Amazon. This is working well for me. Feeling like a normal person. If you try it, start with a much less dose than what the directions say. My bottle says 1 teaspoon but I started with 1/8 teaspoon.

Hi, I suffer from constipation. I have tried everything. However, my dr. recommended Lactulose Solution, 2 tablespoons 2x a day. So far, it's working. Ask your dr. first. All the best to you. I know what you're going through.