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A 30-year-old member asked:
what causes chronic constipation and how do i get rid of it?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Sidney Vinson answered
Gastroenterology 27 years experience
See below: The cause of chronic constipation in most cases is uclear. Potential causes include celiac disease, thyroid disease, hypercalcemia, adhesions, outlet dysfunction, poor diet and medications among others. The best initial treatment is a stool softener such as MiraLAX (polyethylene glycol) daily. If you have bleeding, weight loss or are over 50 you should have a colonoscopy if you haven't already.
6304 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctor commented
A US doctor answered Learn more
Would only add that fiber laxatives (such as [psyllium) are very effective for chronic constipation not related to disease.
Dec 8, 2014
Dr. Eric Kaplan answered
Colon and Rectal Surgery 42 years experience
Poor diet and fluids: Not enough fiber and inadequate fluids. You need 20-25 grams of fiber and 80-100 ounces of alcohol free, caffeine free fluids every day, more if strenuous excercise is part of your daily routine.
5216 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
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Last updated Dec 8, 2014
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