Preventing and Treating Constipation

Constipation is a problem in which you have bowel movements less often than usual. Stools often become very hard and difficult to pass. This may lead to pain and bloating. It may also cause painful bowel movements.

The cause may be a diet that’s low in fiber. Some medicines, especially pain medicines, can also cause it. You can treat constipation with enemas, suppositories, laxatives or stool softeners. Your doctor will tell you which will work best for you. Follow the advice below to help prevent this problem in the future.

Care at home

Medicine
Take all medicines as directed. Some laxatives are safe only if you take them rarely. Others can be taken on a regular basis. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.

General care
Prescription pain pills can cause constipation. If your doctor prescribed pain pills for you, ask the doctor if you should also take a stool softener.

A high fiber diet with plenty of fluids helps you keep your bowel movements soft and regular.

Drink plenty of water when you eat more fiber.

These foods are good sources of fiber:

• Whole grain cereals with bran, oatmeal, or rolled oats

• Whole grain breads

• All fruits (fresh and dried), raisins, prunes, apricots, berries, and figs

• Any fresh vegetables, especially peas, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, winter squash, green beans, cauliflower, lima beans, and carrots

• Popcorn and brown rice

If you have not had a bowel movement within two days after surgery, take Milk of Magnesia or Colace.  You can buy either medicine at your drug store without a prescription.

 Milk of Magnesia

• Take 2 Tablespoons twice a day until you have a bowel movement.

• Be sure to drink each dose with a full glass of water.

 Colace

• Take 1 to 2 tablets twice a day (morning and evening).

Please call your doctor if: 

• You do not have a bowel movement after using Milk of Magnesia or Colace for two days.

• Your symptoms get worse.

Get medical attention right away if:

• You have a fever over 101.5 degrees.

• You have more pain in your abdomen or back.

• You feel sick to your stomach or vomit.

• Your belly swells.

• You have blood in your stool.

• You feel weak or dizzy.

• You faint.