Need a Doctor

My GI has run thousands of tests on me and has diagnosed me with chronic constipation.  He said at this point there are no more medications for me.  I saw a colon surgeon and he said colon removal surgery was an option.  My GI says we should just do the daily enemas for now but I am in constant discomfort with back pain and fatigue, and the enemas are no longer offering relief.  What type of doctor do I need now, after my GI and colon surgeon.  Are there motility specialists?  I need an in-between enemas and surgery.   How can I find someone, preferrably in Texas or Louisiana.  My doctor said he would maybe consider the Mayo clinic down the road but I need something now, and preferrably closer to Louisiana.  Please help me.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Surgery is indeed the last option for constipation.  I assume that common causes like a low thyroid level or diabetes have been excluded.

Various medications like erythromycin or Reglan can be considered.  Further tests like anorectal manometry and motility studies should be done, if not already.  

Another GI opinion, preferably at a major academic medical center, should be sought to ensure all the options are being considered.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com

[misha50]

Try the Digestive Advantage products, they have one for IBS and GAS.  I use this and it's done wonders for me.

[Morecambe]

In case you seriously contemplate a total colectomy for your condition, I thought it may be helpful for you to be able to read the experience of another patient (i.e. myself) who underwent this procedure (but for a different complaint than yours).

Try to log on to:-

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/523166

and you ahould find a description which I placed in response to another patient back on 20 May.

Please feel to revert with any other questions

Good luck
Morecambe

[Merla]

I also had a similar problem several yrs ago, bloated, feeling awful, not able "to go" on my own and looking 9 months pregnant even though I weigh 115 lbs.  At the time my PCP took an extra of my abdomen and just told me to take enemas daily for at least 2 weeks.  Then he prescribed Lactulose (i couldn't tolerate it)  

I have a GI dr now and he perscribes a generic brand of Miralax.  You can buy it over the counter but i'ts expensive and there are generic alternatives.  It's a powder that mixes into water, juice, etc. and I'm told it's much safer than some other laxatives.  Along with fibercon pills it's a miracle for me, moving every day.  

He thinks because I was taking laxatives so long ( I had this problem for years and years) that my colon lost it's ability to move normally.  Anyway hope this helps alittle.
Best of luck to you I hope you feel better soon.