Constipation :(

[Mikal267]

Hi, I'm 20, and for the past week I've had mild constipation, it can sometimes be several days before something happens. I've noticed a lot of the time I feel like I need to go but when I try there's only a little bit of clear fluid. I'm getting kinda worried about what it can be, my stomach feels bloated but there's nothing I can do to relieve it. Were it about something less gross I'd probably go to the doctors, but in this case I don't even know what I'd say... any help would be greatly appreciated.

[rtjrevie]

Constipation is a common problem in many people. First off make sure you drink plenty of water. Water is absorbed in the intestines and if not enough present stool becomes hard and not as easy to pass. Second, make sure to exercise; this increases metablism and bowel motility. Eat plenty of fiber; whole wheat, fruits (with skins), vegetables. Fiber ONe makes a good cereal and granola bars that taste good and work well. Prunes and Prune juice work really well to help with constipation. If this still doesn't help I would take a stool softener, Docusate Sodium (Colace) is a good one. Take this everyday, this willl not cause you to have a bowel movement such as a laxative does, but it will help soften the stool so it is easier to pass. If you are still having troubles try Miralax. You mix one capful with a full 8oz of fluid. I like this one because it doesn't taste like anything and it generally doesn't cause diarrhea. You can also try a laxative such as Senna, Vegetable laxative, Bisacodyl tablets or suppositories or a Fleets Enema.  It will feel better to clear out and then get things working. Don't be embarassed to go to the doctor, this is a very common problem. Good luck!!

[J_Netta]

I have had constipation problems before and had the same symptoms like you described. A friend of mine suggested Lin seeds. I just eat a couple of tablespoons a day and it really works!! You don't get cramps that you get when you take a laxative its just the most amazing relieve ever! I know that sound weird, but its true.

[Mikal267]

I haven't tried any laxatives or anything, because it usually sorts itself out. The strange thing is often even after a successful movement I still don't feel relieved. Thanks for the advice about yoghurt though, I didn't even know that helped this kind of thing ^^;

[mammo]

Have you tried a laxative, enema or suppository?  I went thru this as well, and tried it all.  I knew something serious had to be wrong and while waiting to see the doctor I started eating yogurt enriched with probiotics, and within 10 days everything was back to normal!  We can lose the naturally occurring bacteria in our intestines which aids in digestion, and it can slow down the process to a crawl...if that!  I would start the yogurt, but you need quick relief, so I would do a Fleet enema and/or laxative to get things moving.  Good luck I know it's miserable, and take care!

[Mikal267]

Thanks for the reply, I'll probably get it checked out in a few weeks if it persists.

Best of luck with your operation ~

[lucinda1675]

it sounds like you have a blockage could be gallstones get checked quick i went 5 years in pain not fun having emergency surgery hope u feel better soon