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Suffering With Anorexia, Bulimia, Got Off Laxatives, Have Severe Stomach Cramps. Recovery Time?

Hi I have been suffering with anorexia and bulimia for many years, I have come off laxatives as part of my recovery, I have been taking them daily for 4 years and round 5-15 dulcolax tablets at a time. I have laxative free for 2 weeks but I feel o lated and uncomfortable, I ve got lots of gas, and I haven t been able to go to the toilet or 2 weeks, I ave terrible stomach cramps ,was wondering how long these symptoms will take to go?!
posted on Sat, 19 Jan 2013
Twitter Tue, 22 Jan 2013 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 22 Jan 2013 Last reviewed on
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query.

It appears that you may be suffering from withdrawal symptoms from the laxative abuse. Since you have been taking them continuosly at high doses for a prolonged period of time, your system must have got used to it and the current symptoms of constipation, stomach cramps, etc. are rebound or withdrawal symptoms. The duration of these symptoms will depend on the severity and duration of the laxative abuse.

Since, you haven't passed stools in 2 weeks, I would advise you to see a doctor for further treatment options. Also, keep drinking plenty of fluids and take a fibre-rich diet with lots of fruits and vegetables.

Wish you all the best.

Regards,
Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist
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Suffering With Anorexia, Bulimia, Got Off Laxatives, Have Severe Stomach Cramps. Recovery Time?

Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query. It appears that you may be suffering from withdrawal symptoms from the laxative abuse. Since you have been taking them continuosly at high doses for a prolonged period of time, your system must have got used to it and the current symptoms of constipation, stomach cramps, etc. are rebound or withdrawal symptoms. The duration of these symptoms will depend on the severity and duration of the laxative abuse. Since, you haven t passed stools in 2 weeks, I would advise you to see a doctor for further treatment options. Also, keep drinking plenty of fluids and take a fibre-rich diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Wish you all the best. Regards, Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar Consultant Psychiatrist