I am newly diagnosed with Sjogren's syndrome. I got to the point in 2001, that I could not have a bowel movement without colonics or an enema. I was healthy, but couldn't poop. I went to MANY GI doctors and surgeons to get help. They ALL said that I needed my colon taken out. Without a real answer to this problem, I had the surgery. Eleven feet (normal colon 4-5 feet) of stretched out redundant colon was removed. I spent 22 days in the hospital. It was aweful! I lost 18 pounds. Years later, now, I have the answer: Sjogren's syndrome. My sister uses Amitiza to bring fluid into her colon. I'm sure there are other things that can help. I now take Cymbalta for my stomach problems and it helps tremendously (IBS, PAIN etc). I hope this helps to provide a direction and I hope you aren't as bad as I was.
Hi!
Sudden onset constipation can start with a change in diet. If you take too many fibers and probiotics but not enough fluids, then you can get constipation. Diverticular diseases of the colon, colonic cancer and IBS are the other causes which can cause sudden onset constipation. Hemorrhoids (piles) and anal fissures can also be the cause. Do discuss this with your doctor and get yourself examined. Take care!
Thanks for responding Doctor. I have been checked for all of those things you listed, all negative. Fibromyalgia and CFS were ruled out by my doctor because of my chronically elevated Sed rate. I also have had problems in the last 4 months with sudden, very severe constipation. (No bowel movements at all without laxative use) Do you know of any ailments that cause sudden severe onset of constipation that I could mention to my doctor, thanks. Oh and I have started taking probiotics, digestive supplements and have been instructed to use a mild daily laxative. Not much has changed since starting this regimen.
Hi!
If you have joint and muscle pain that is cyclical with your menstrual cycle, then this can be a severe variety of premenstrual tension. You need to get FSH, LH, estrogen and progesterone levels checked. The other possibility is that the symptoms are due to diabetes, hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, all of which can be cyclical. Rheumatoid arthritis too can get aggravated close to menstrual cycle. I suggest you discuss these possibilities with your doctor. Take care!