Suggest Treatment For Constipation From Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Posted on Sun, 18 Jan 2015

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

Sun, 18 Jan 2015 Answered on

Tue, 3 Feb 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi i am a 35 year old female and was today diagnosed a having ibs-c. The consultant did a rectal examination and said i am constipated with rock and golf ball sized stools. He has prescribed lactulose and dulcolax. When i asked how long i should take this medication he said 'indefinitely' as he thinks it will be a recurring problem and i have probably had it since childhood.
I have had thyroid problems since i was 20 with both overactive and underactive periods. Around 5 weeks ago bloods revealed i was underactive again (after a 5 year period of normal with no medication) and so i am on 50mg of thyroxine for a 6 week period, soon to be reviewed.
Also, I have an 8 month old baby whom i am breastfeeding and worry about possible effects from these medicines.
Does this seem the best course of treament as all the info i have read seems to suggest diet and lifestyle advice and not long term medicines. many thanks

Answered by Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Current medicines will not effect with child

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for the query

Lactulose and dulcolax will not affect your child so you can use it without fear.
It is true that lifestyle changes are advised in IBS however in my experience most patients do end up requiring some support with drugs as well.

Here is what you should do

1. Drink atleast 8 glasses of water a day
2. Banana is a natural laxative
3. Add lots of fiber in the form of green leafy vegetables and fruits into your diet
4. Avoid high fat food as it worsens constipation
5. Make sure your thyroid levels are within normal limits, hypothyroidism is known to cause constipation
6. Exercise atleast 30 min a day

I hope I was of help, if you have any further queries please get back to me

Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar