Hello @januaryjane,

Since you have had a problem with slow transit constipation, I'm wondering if you know the cause? For example, have you had surgeries of the intestinal tract? Do you have any food allergies or problems with specific foods?

Since this has been a long term problem for you, I'm sure you must practice exercises such as taking a short walk after meals and/or exercises that specifically stimulate the digestive tract like bending at the waist, etc. What about your liquid/fiber consumption? These are all things that are quite helpful but they require diligence to practice the techniques.

I look forward to hearing from you again and understanding more of what you are experiencing. Will you post again?

Hi @januaryjane,
I hear you and know your pain. I have been suffering with constipation for almost 20 years. I also had my gallbladder removed in 1999 and had a Nissen in 2000 which I had reversed in Feb. 2019. I have had many tests and taken many meds to reveal the root cause and get my bowels moving; but none of this has worked. I saw my GI doctor yesterday and he has upped my Linzess to the highest amount of mgs. I will continue to pray and hope that this will give me some relief so that I don't have to get up early every morning to set aside an hour to have a bowel movement. This is frustrating and discouraging, but do not lose hope, God is faithful. I will pray for you and also for myself. Blessings

Have you seen a GI at a top rated gastroenterology facility—e.g. Mayo? If not, please try to do this. Your situation seems really serious—physically snd emotionally.

My health problems, including the stc, started after I got Mono at 17 and have struggled with ebv reactivation years after. I believe my stc is a direct cause of this, among other things. Yes, exercise, small meals, fodmap, lots of water, etc. My stc is diagnosed as idiopathic.

Thank you so much. Right now im not responding lengthy, not feeling the best, but wanted to say thanks and i appreciate your kindness.

My insurance doesnt cover mayo unfortunately. Ive just been to the bigger universities in my state. Not much help.

Where do you live? Does your insurance cover medical care outside of your area? If so, you might start by checking US News and World Report online for its lists of best rated care in various specialties (incl. Gastroenterology) to see which facilities and doctors are well regarded. At least you may be able to get a really valid second opinion.

Hi, how was your slow transit constipation diagnosed?

Oops, I already sent my reply before I was done! I was also wondering what surgery you are dragging your feet about?
IMO opinion (and life experience) constipation is one (I'm sure there are many) of the most poorly understood GI problems, even by GI specialists, and therefore there aren't really good treatments for it – it fact, I'm a little shocked at the illogic of the treatments that are prescribed.

Did your constipation start after the gall bladder surgery (that sounds about 20 years ago)?

The Mayo does not accept my insurances (I have Medicare and Tricare for Life) … but Mayo is working with them. My part to pay is just a bit more than what it would be if they did accept my insurances. Talk to someone in financing at whichever Mayo Clinic is nearest you. Some of the doctors and NPs accept insurances that the Clinic and hospital do not. My NP accepts at least one of mine. My hubby handles all that so not sure if it is just one or both she accepts.

Not sure about my insurance, but im willing to look into other places, even studies

I first did a colonic marker study (the pill) and all markers were still inside. Next did a colonoscopy, which was fine. Last of the tests were defecography, which was normal then Anorectal manometry, which found some pelvic floor dysfunction. Ive been doing pelvic floor therapy for awhile, hasnt helped much.

Surgery to take out part or most of colon.

Thanks, ill look into it. Im on medicaid, so no idea how that would work.