Fort Pierce, FL
A 35-year-old male asked:
What is constipation? how do you treat it?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Dominic Riganottianswered
Infectious Disease 27 years experience
Constipation: Constipation refers to bowel movements that are infrequent or hard to pass (+/- pain). Severe constipation includes obstipation (failure to pass stools or gas) and fecal impaction, which can progress to bowel obstruction and become life-threatening. Increasing dietary fiber, laxatives, enemas, medications (Colace, Amitiza (lubiprostone) and Linzess are effective) and sometimes even surgical intervention.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
2.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Steven Fergusonanswered
General Practice 37 years experience
See below: Constipation is a very common problem particular in Western society. Common associated issues are not enough water and not enough fruits and vegetables. High-fiber can be very helpful in constipation but it must be associated with water.
Several questions would help diagnose your problem. To include how often you normally move your bowels. Do you normally have a problem with constipation? Do you
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 33-year-old member asked:
What causes constipation and how can I treat this?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Eric Kaplananswered
Colon and Rectal Surgery 44 years experience
Change your diet and: Fluids. Eat a high fiber diet between 20-25 grams per day, regular meal times and drink 80-100 oz of caffeine free alcohol free fluids daily. If you exercise and should add 20 oz per 30 minutes of strenuous exercise. Some meds contribute to constipation so take the meds with full glass of fluid instead of a sip in addition to the above recommended fluids.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 47-year-old member asked:
Have constipation in adults, what to do to treat it?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Eric Kaplananswered
Colon and Rectal Surgery 44 years experience
Change your diet and: Fluids. Eat a high fiber diet between 20-25 grams per day, regular meal times and drink 80-100 oz of caffeine free alcohol free fluids daily. If you exercise and should add 20 oz per 30 minutes of strenuous exercise. Some meds contribute to constipation so take the meds with full glass of fluid instead of a sip in addition to the above recommended fluids.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Nov 14, 2021
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.