past laxative abuse

I'm a 38-year-old who is being evaluated for possible IBS/UC with upcoming colonoscopy/endoscopy. My symptoms are alternating diarrhea and constipation, narrow (pencil thin) stools, and pain and bloating. No weight loss but occasional tarry stool.

I have a family history of UC and a personal history of post-C-section adhesions of the uterus to the bowel (removed via laparoscopy), endometriosis, and extensive laxative abuse.

While suffering from an eating disorder as a teen, I became hooked on laxatives and took quanities as great as 60-100 doses/day 5x week for 7 years in an effort to control weight. The type I used was the Dulcolax/Exlax variety. I've never really felt normal since stopping, and this was when IBS symptoms started.

I'm curious about what we know at this point about how such severe prolonged laxative abuse affects future bowel health. Have studies been done on the subject,and what do they reveal? Thanks. Lambchop

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Long-term past laxative abuse can lead to chronic constipation as well as damaging the colonic muscle wall.  It can also drain the body of water, vitamins and minerals.

To determine if any permanent damage has been done, the colonoscopy/upper endoscopy would be the most comprehensive next step.  

Certainly the past laxative abuse may have lead to the IBS-like symptoms.  Discussing this with your personal physician is the appropriate next step.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

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

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[yoshi]

you better google and find out what FDA has to say about Dulcolax.