Constipation remedy needed for colostomy

[lesliegg]

Hi everyone,
This problem is new to me...well kind of new. I have been having constipation problems for a couple of months now. I have a colostomy and so for years all I dealt with was very loose stools several times a day. The constipation thing really hurts and scares me. I am wondering what other people do for constipation problems with a colostomy. I tried Senekot and it did seem to work but I wound up taking a whole bottle in about 5 days. I don't want to keep doing that. Any suggestions?
Iwrote this before but put it in the wrong section, so I am trying again. Peace

 

[pain in the butt 2]

Have you tried any stool softners. I'm a colostomy girl since feb. so I'm still kinda new to this hope you get some answers.

 

[lesliegg]

no pooping happening

I only tried the Senekot, which I believe is a natural laxative. I am impressed by you though. Writing to help and being so new to Colostomy Land, so to speak, I was a basket case for years after mine. Thanks

 

[Nyx]

I echo the stool softener idea. You have to take them every day though, not just when you're constipated. I have a colostomy as well and don't really have too many problems with constipation any more (prior to my stoma though I'd go a week without a movement....ouch!!), but I've been taking the stool softeners since I got my stoma so that might be the reason why I have no problems there anymore.

If you don't take the softeners, I'd try a laxative you can take everyday like Benefiber, Citrucel, Fiber Choice, Metamucil...personally I like Benefiber the best since it doesn't taste like anything at all and you can put it in your food if you don't want to drink it in water.

 

[poolside]

Miralax is a good stool softener, doesn't cause cramping. Just put a few teaspoons in some water and guzzle. No taste at all to it. Transports water to the bowel.
I echo what Nyx says about taking it every day and not just when you are feeling constipated.

 

[lesliegg]

pooping problems

Thanks Nyx and Poolside,
I feel so much better knowing people take stool softeners everyday. I don't know why, I thought that was a "No-No'. You guys rock!

 

[Terriernut]

I'm glad to know people do that too!!! I may never need to, but by gosh it's good to know! Still, I know you dont wanna....but tell the GI anyway. I know, tests are FUN arent they? NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Sarah123]

Konsyl is the best laxative ever.