Suggest A Permanent Solution For Severe Constipation And Lack Of Bowel Movement Without The Help Of Laxatives

Posted on Thu, 13 Apr 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 13 Apr 2017 Answered on

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : My husband suffers from severe constipation. Unless he takes a laxative at night he doesn't get a bowel movement at all in the morning. He is completely dependent on laxatives. He is having this problem since childhood and has been on laxatives for the last 10 years. What could be the root cause of this problem and a permanent solution to it.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Happykumar Kagathara (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Abnormal movement related disorder in the anal canal

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

1) Constipation since childhood might be related to abnormal movement of rectum and anal canal.

2) He must undergo colonoscopy and anal manometry test to check movement pattern and structural pattern of rectum and anal canal.

3) Sometimes, nerve supply within the anal canal would be abnormal which might lead to constipation since childhood.

4) Laxative would help only to relieve symptom of constipation otherwise the exact diagnosis with above mentioned tests are required to deliver appropriate treatment which is mandatory.

5) I would also suggest to continue laxative for relief from symptoms and also undergo the above mentioned investigations after consulting a medical gastroenterologist.

Hope I have answered your query.

Regards,
Dr. Happykumar Kagathara
Gastroenterologist, Surgical

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng