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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Remedy To Relive Constipation

Dear doctor, I am a 74-year-old female, 172cm tall, weighing 67kg. Two years ago I was diagnosed with colon cancer, had major surgery twice and spent a total of 3 months in hospital. In Sept. 2010 I had abdominal hernia repair. I have been constipated ever since the second operation. This was kept under control by using various kinds of over-the-counter laxatives. In the last few months the condition has become much worse, impacted faeces most likely. Strong laxatives and Movicol (macrogol) no longer work. My GP recommended daily consumption of oat bran soaked in milk and mixed with psyllium husk. This worked for almost 3 weeks, but now I can only have bowel movements by taking sodium picosulfate powder, which results in watery stools. - I would be most grateful for any suggestion. Many thanks!
Tue, 29 May 2018
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General Surgeon 's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

You should take plenty of fluids and salads (fresh carrots, radish and carrots) in addition to psyllium husk. Also avoid prolonged use of sodium picosulfate. Regular aerobic exercise is also important. However, as you have been operated for colonic carcinoma 2 years back a colonoscopy is recommended.I would also suggest TSH and serum calcium levels.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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Suggest Remedy To Relive Constipation

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. You should take plenty of fluids and salads (fresh carrots, radish and carrots) in addition to psyllium husk. Also avoid prolonged use of sodium picosulfate. Regular aerobic exercise is also important. However, as you have been operated for colonic carcinoma 2 years back a colonoscopy is recommended.I would also suggest TSH and serum calcium levels. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.