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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How To Treat Constipation?

I gave up smoking 18 months ago and have been slightly constipated ever since. Its better than it was but I still find it difficult to go every day and if I don't go my stomach gets hard and I get terrible cramps. I have found that drinking a small amount of prune juice everyday helps a bit but if I drink too much then I get diahorrea. I am healthy 31 year old female. I am not overweight and I eat a very healthy diet including lots of fruit and vegetables. I have tried taking digestive enzymes, linseed oil, califig, fiber supplements. None of it has particularly helped and I am sick of worring about when I am going to be able to "go" and how long it is going to take.

Perhaps the smoking in some way had a very negative effect on my digestive system? I have read online that others have experienced these symptoms too. Please - any advice you can give would be very helpful
Mon, 26 Feb 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,my name is Dr. Dorina Gurabardhi.
I understand your concern.
Some advice that I can give to you are:
-Drink more water.
-Eat more fiber, especially soluble, non-fermentable fiber.
-Exercise more.
-Drink coffee, especially caffeinated coffee.
-Take senna, an herbal laxative.
-Eat probiotic foods or take probiotic supplements.
-Use over-the-counter or prescription laxatives.
Hope it helps, kind regards!
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How To Treat Constipation?

Hello,my name is Dr. Dorina Gurabardhi. I understand your concern. Some advice that I can give to you are: -Drink more water. -Eat more fiber, especially soluble, non-fermentable fiber. -Exercise more. -Drink coffee, especially caffeinated coffee. -Take senna, an herbal laxative. -Eat probiotic foods or take probiotic supplements. -Use over-the-counter or prescription laxatives. Hope it helps, kind regards!