My grandmother has chronic constipation because of the pain killers she takes. What works for you?

Question

My grandmother is 65. She has an arthritic hip, and takes Darvocet --(Darvon+ Tylenol). As a result she gets constipated, as do all people who take pain killers. What works for you when you take pain killers, and have this problem

Answer 1

Yes, all narcotics are very constipating. She should be taking a stool softener every day. Phillips makes one that is a pill. It's not a laxative--just a softener. It will really help when you take it every day. If she is really backed up right now, get some milk of magnesia. That will get her cleaned out without cramps.

Answer 2

Usually an over the counter stool softener, like colace (docusate sodium) helps with this kind of constipation. Gentle laxatives, like senna (sennakot) may be needed as well. Increase fluid intake, exercise and a high fiber diet also reduce constipation. In the case of narcotics, the constipation is due to the drugs effects in slowing the motility of the gut.

Answer 3

Best Constipation Cures

Answer 4

Not ALL people have this issue, but many do. She should consult her doctor, there are lots of remedies...both natural and pharmaceutical.

Warm prune juice works wonders...it sounds and tastes horrid, but works. Also, easting more fruits and vegetables while cutting out breads and dairy products should help. Psyllium has had good results for many people.

I recommend going to a health food store and explaining the problems, they would be happy to assist you.

And WATER, WATER, WATER...tell her to drink it until she feels like she is going to float away.

Best of luck to both of you...I hope this helps.

And one last thing...glycerin suppositories are pretty good, I am told, if she doesn't have an issue w/ using them.

Carter's Little Pills are pretty good, too. Increase her fiber intake as well.

Answer 5

I agree with the person who suggested Docusate - a stool softener that does its job but does not produce painful cramping and will not leave her having to run to the bathroom. This is the product that I have to take because I too live my life on pain medications because of permanent nerve damage to my back. Having said this I would advise asking her doctor what he/she thinks is best because even though all of us who have answered would really like to help we don't know your grandmother or her history. I'm sure that you wouldn't even have to take her in, try just calling the doctor. Usually if they're busy they will return the call later in the day.

Answer 6

I recommend Citracil in the powdered form. It tastes like orange juice. Some people get very bad gas and cramps with the fiber pills or laxatives. It will start working after the first day. It is safe enough to drink everyday.

Answer 7

My mother in law lives with us...same issues. Prune juice....all bran or bran buds. Occasional metamucil powder. Diet high in fibre basically the more natural the better...you can sprinkle flax seed on her food....grinded up. Half a glass of prune juice morning and night will do the job no problem. Good luck!!

Answer 8

I worked in a pharmacy dispensing pain med for hospice pt. Most of the time the dr. would prescribe miralax. It is a prescription item. If you want something natural, try prune juice and adding bran and /or fiber to the diet.

Answer 9

Take All Bran or stool softeners. Stay away from from cheese, strawberries and Drink water

Answer 10

Citrucel