How long is too long to have constipation?

Question

I was at the doctor for really bad pains which just ended up being severe constipation. Well, now it's been 4 almost 5 days since I've passed a bowl movement. I got a prescription that is like Metamucil (sp?) but stronger and it's not helping. I've also been changing my diet to add in more water and more fiber. How much longer should I wait to go back into the doctor?

Answer 1

Although many variables are included in this answer, it would be best to return to the doctor for a GI series of xrays. The length of time varies, but it also would depend on your eating behaviors before useage of metamucil. Constipation becomes concerning after 3 - 4 days, that is why you were provided with metamucil. Now, hopefully you will have a bowel improvement before seven days transpires. Ultimately, xrays would show fecal impaction, or another reason for your obstruction.

Your age, other medical conditions, psychological stressors, street drug usage (marijuana), and familial history of colonic disease are important contributing factors. Another question would be...is there any blood in your stool. Ultimately, you need to return to the doctor.

Good luck

Answer 2

Wow...you have tried suppositories and an enema and nothing has helped? Ouch. I am sorry. Constipation has to be on the top 5 of the most painful things in the world. The only thing left that I can suggest is milk of magnosium (Spelling Error)...It's usually a red liquid, comes in a class bottle. However, since none of the stuff has worked, and the longer you keep it there, the more hard it's going to be, I suggest you go to the hosptial. I know it sounds silly...and It would be a hard thing to do...but it really would be best. It's blocked, and nothing you have tried is going to the move it. I myself, and a few people I know, have had to go the hosptial to get it removed. If you keep taking all the fiber, and other things to help you go..when the block is removed, you will be going to the bathroom a lot. I would really go and get medical help at this point...I think it's beyond the stuff you can buy at the store. Good look...and I hope you get help, and that you feel better.

Answer 3

Best Constipation Cures

Answer 4

If you have any vomiting you need to call your doctor asap, but you should call your doctor if you don't have a bowel movement in the next 48hrs. If you feel like you can't take fluids, or any food, then you should call and make an appointment soon. You should try an enema, sounds gross, but works well atleast to open the water ways if you know what I mean. If you don't have a bowel movement with the enema call your doctor asap

Answer 5

GO!!!
I was constipated for 4-5 days once, and began to get ill from the toxins that were building up.

Other things to try:
- a long walk or run to get things moving
- "Bowel Buddy" biscuits (I'm NOT kidding - try the health food scetion or store or maybe look online)
- prunes, prune juice
- lots of black licorice (the real stuff, not the fake twizzler kind)
- oatmeal with lots of raisins
- dried apricots, dates, etc.

Good luck!

Answer 6

Get yourself a big bottle of Prune Juice. Drink it 4 oz. at a time at (initially; half hr intervals). If you go beyond 2 hrs with no result, see a Doc.

A big change in bowel habits can trumpet a lot of diseases. It may be a bit embarassing, but it could save your life to be up front about this.

Answer 7

i have gone 5 or more days and i lived but i wouldnt want to have to wait any longer. Take a laxative as well as metamusil or just give ur doc a call..

Answer 8

Make sure you drink enough fluids- also if you take pain meds- they can definitely contipate you- I would call Md asap= D

Answer 9

What did your doctor tell you?

Give it time and lots of water.

Answer 10

I think you need to call your doctor right away and explain how you feel.