Suggest Treatment For Severe Constipation That Has Lasted For Over A Week

Posted on Wed, 12 Apr 2017

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

Wed, 12 Apr 2017 Answered on

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : I have not had a bowel movement in over a week.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Explained

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Kindly answer the following to advise accordingly

Are you passing flatus/ gas?
Is there associated abdominal pain or vomiting?

I shall await your response.

Thanks.

Regards,
Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil
General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (22 hours later)

I am passing gas and have had a small soft movement for the past 3 days.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (17 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Explained

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

If you are passing flatus then it means that you don't have absolute constipation.

I would advise polyethylene glycol sachets available as Movcol or Miralax. They can be used up to 6 times a day. As soon as you have a proper bowel movement and pass stool then you can stop it.

The cause for this constipation should be determined. Electrolyte imbalance especially low potassium should be looked for.

These measures can also help significantly. Avoid meats, drink at least 1.5 liter of water daily, increase fiber intake and use ispaghula husk before every meal with milk or guava juice.

Hope I have answered your query.

Wishing you the best of health.

Thanks.

Regards,
Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil
General & Family Physician

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