Hi,I am Dr. Subhankar Chakraborty (Gastroenterologist). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
Hi, may I answer your health queries right now ? Please type your query here...my stomach is extended [blown up] to an extent never before expperienced. There is no pain except for
the steching. i haven't had a bowel movemrnt in 5 days whichis very unusual. would taking a laxative be risky?
As you did not have a bowel movement in 5 days, you can take a laxative for the moment.
Though symptomatic relief from constipation can be obtained by intake of laxatives and stool softeners, the underlying cause needs to be treated. Constipation can be caused due to: 1. Any pathology/ sub acute obstruction in the Gastrointestinal tract. 2. Irritable bowel syndrome- constipation predominant type. 3. Functional cause- due to decreased gastric motility. 4. Inadequate intake of fluids and fiber rich diet. 5. Hormonal & Metabolic causes, etc.
So, it will be better to consult a Gastroenterologist for a proper clinical examination. Investigations like complete blood count, stool examination, Ultrasound scan of abdomen, Colonoscopy & contrast studies will be helpful to rule out any pathological cause for your symptoms.
Wishing a good health. Take care.
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Can Laxative Be Taken For Constipation?
Hello dear, As you did not have a bowel movement in 5 days, you can take a laxative for the moment. Though symptomatic relief from constipation can be obtained by intake of laxatives and stool softeners, the underlying cause needs to be treated. Constipation can be caused due to: 1. Any pathology/ sub acute obstruction in the Gastrointestinal tract. 2. Irritable bowel syndrome- constipation predominant type. 3. Functional cause- due to decreased gastric motility. 4. Inadequate intake of fluids and fiber rich diet. 5. Hormonal & Metabolic causes, etc. So, it will be better to consult a Gastroenterologist for a proper clinical examination. Investigations like complete blood count, stool examination, Ultrasound scan of abdomen, Colonoscopy & contrast studies will be helpful to rule out any pathological cause for your symptoms. Wishing a good health. Take care.