Long term effects of various constipation treatments?

Asked by: Christina Stallings

Can constipation cause long term problems?

Constipation rarely causes any complications or long-term health problems. Treatment is usually effective, particularly if it’s started promptly. However, if you have long-term (chronic) constipation, you may be more at risk of experiencing complications.

What is the best long term treatment for constipation?

In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.

What are the long term effects of laxative use?

The overuse of laxatives can lead to electrolyte disturbances, dehydration and mineral deficiencies. Laxative abuse can also cause long-term and potentially permanent damage to the digestive system, including chronic constipation and damage to the nerves and muscles of the colon.

Can constipation be treated permanently?

Treatment for chronic constipation usually begins with diet and lifestyle changes meant to increase the speed at which stool moves through your intestines. If those changes don’t help, your doctor may recommend medications or surgery.

What effects does constipation have on the body?

When you can’t get stool out of your body, it can start to stick together in your intestines. The hardened mass gets stuck and causes a blockage. The squeezing your colon normally uses to push stool out of your body can’t move it because it’s too large and hard. It can cause pain and vomiting.

What are serious signs of constipation?

Symptoms of constipation include:

• You have fewer than three bowel movements a week.
• Your stools are dry, hard and/or lumpy.
• Your stools are difficult or painful to pass.
• You have a stomach ache or cramps.
• You feel bloated and nauseous.
• You feel that you haven’t completely emptied your bowels after a movement.

Can you take stool softeners every day?

Can you take stool softeners every day? No, and you shouldn’t need to take stool softeners every day. Don’t take stool softeners for more than one week unless you’re under the direction of your healthcare provider. If you have sudden changes in your bowel habits that last longer than two weeks, call your provider.

What is the best probiotic for constipation?

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG^® (or LGG^® as it is more commonly known) is a very well-known and well-researched strain of probiotic bacteria with a range of known health benefits, some of which are suggested to include reducing occasional constipation.

Do probiotics help with constipation?

Studies suggest that probiotics may relieve constipation related to pregnancy, certain medications, or digestive issues like IBS. Probiotics are largely safe and effective, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet to improve bowel regularity.

What is idiopathic constipation?

The term “idiopathic constipation” means constipation without a known cause. Children with constipation are not able to have a bowel movement on a routine basis. Often it is a very mild problem that can be solved by changes in diet and exercise. Some children suffer from chronic idiopathic constipation.

Is there a surgery for constipation?

Surgery. A small number of selected patients with well documented slow-transit constipation that is resistant to medical treatment, and without evidence of functional outlet obstruction may be candidates for colon resection – surgical removal of the colon with connection of the small intestine to the remaining rectum.

How long does constipation last?

If you’re not having bowel movements as often as you used to, usually it’s no cause for worry. Often, constipation will go away on its own within a few days or get better after you use laxatives or another constipation treatment.