[junk4myemail]

If your meds cause constipation, what helps you, umm, go? I take vicodin and cymbalta.

Laxatives hurt my behind. Any help you can offer. Thanks.

[Vicc]

Hi Christine,

I have been talomg four 100mg docusate sodiium stool softeners daily for about six years and it still works for me.

I don't drink water because fish do nasty things in it, so I drink 1 litre of club soda per day, plus 12 cups of coffee and one 12 oz root beer. If you don't drink lots of liquids, life will be less happy...Vic

[Gary and LuAnn]

oh my gosh do I ever know what you are talking about. My doctor prescribed for me Miralax which now can be bought without a prescription. It takes a few days to take effect but after that it is amazing.

LuAnn

Hi there!

We had a good thread on this a while back, at:
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/showthread.php?t=5714

That thread contains a link to the Chronic Pain forum's thread on it, a really brilliant collection of suggestions - take a look at both, and good luck! Very uncomfortable problem!

all the best

[Imahotep]

I take Metamusil or an equivalent with the medication that causes trouble. It usually works. I'll also use senocot if I think it might need a boost at night but just a little bit. If there's still trouble then there's little option but a suppository stool softener.

[JOAN_M]

i use only colace, and drink lots of water. some people add metamucil or any fiber supplement. those are your safest choices. they assist the natural function of the bowel. hope this helps. joan

[Rainbow422]

How about Prunes, prune juice, raisins, plums,

Grapes etc. Why add more chemicals to your system by taking stool softners, just some ole fashion fiber and this can come from our everyday fruits and veggies!

Hugs

Rain

[frogga]

With Rain.

Prunes = yuck = good poo

xxxxxxxxx

[Imahotep]

Originally Posted by Rainbow422

How about Prunes, prune juice, raisins, plums,

Grapes etc. Why add more chemicals to your system by taking stool softners, just some ole fashion fiber and this can come from our everyday fruits and veggies!

Hugs

Rain

I got diverticulosis with the rsd. The docs don't think they're related but my guess is that it was caused by the constipation resulting from the drugs. If I strain much then diverticulitis seems to result. It's nasty and means I go in the hospital and/or don't eat for three or four days.

You're right that natural means are best but it might a good idea to be certain you're getting the job done no matter what.