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what helps with constipation
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Digestive Health
Question #25292
8 days ago
22

what helps with constipation - #25292

Tara

I am really struggling with this annoying issue of constipation! It’s been a few weeks, like three or four, and nothing seems to work. I’ve tried more fiber, drinking gallons of water, but still feel stuck, ya know? It’s super frustrating because I eat fruits, veggies, and even take that fiber supplement they always say is good for gut health. I thought maybe some yogurt would help, but nope, still dealing with this constipation. I also noticed that when I'm stressed out at work or not sleeping well, it gets a bit worse. I’m really wondering what helps with constipation in these situations. Do certain foods work better than others? What about over-the-counter stuff? I really don’t wanna have to go see a doctor just yet, but I’m also scared it’ll lead to something more serious. Should I just keep waiting it out or looking into other home remedies? Just feel kinda lost right now, and I try to avoid feeling like this since it makes my whole day drag. Any suggestions on what helps with constipation that I might be missing?

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Doctors' responses

Dealing with constipation can certainly be a hassle, especially when you’re already trying common remedies like increasing fiber and hydration. Since this issue has persisted for a few weeks, let’s delve into some additional strategies and see if we can tackle this. First, while fiber is crucial, sometimes it can actually make constipation worse if your fluid intake isn’t matching up or if you’re introducing fiber too quickly. It’s good to gradually increase fiber over a few days and ensure you’re drinking plenty of water alongside it. As for over-the-counter options, osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol (Miralax) can be an effective option that gently draws water into the bowel. Stimulant laxatives like senna might provide quicker relief, but they can be harsh if used frequently. Both should be used mindfully and ideally for short durations. Make sure to also incorporate physical activity into your routine—as this can enhance bowel movements. Even a brisk walk each day can make a difference. Stress can indeed exacerbate constipation. Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or anything that relaxes you post a stressful workday can impact bowel regularity positively. Yoga and pelvic floor exercises like squats might aid in relieving stress-related constipation too. However, if these steps don’t seem to help, or if you notice additional symptoms like blood in stools, unintentional weight loss, or persistent abdominal pain, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional promptly. Persistent constipation could sometimes signal underlying conditions that need more attention. But managing lifestyle factors often presents significant improvement, so continue with patience and these adjustments to see what improves your comfort.

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