May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Digestive Disorders Digestive Problems and Improving Constipation
Digestive Problems and Improving Constipation |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I have had problems with constipation. I had a bout the other week. I took Mira-Lax. It seemed to work butI have had small amounts of string like consistency stools. I noticed an oily film on the water in the toilet as well. When I go to the bathroom I also felt a bulge inside my colon . I am in a panic that I have a tumor or something not normal. Dear Angela: There are several lifestyle modifications that can improve constipation. These include: increased exercise, including walking; increased fluid intake in the form of water; and increased fibre in the diet and fibre supplementation. Sources of dietary fibre include fruits and dried fruits especially prunes, root vegetables, especially in the skin, and legumes, cereals high in fibre, wheat and corn bran, oats, nuts and seeds and whole grain bread. Soluble fibre supplements and prebiotics are available in most pharmacies, which may improve symptoms in addition to diet. I would advise trial of lifestyle modification initially and a visit to your family doctor for a clinical examination. He may prescribe stool softener or osmotic laxative if other measures have failed to work. |
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| Last Updated ( Thursday, 14 October 2010 ) |
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