Advice on bowel dysfunction

You may have a blockage. To relieve a blockage your self you can use mineral oil about 6 oz at a time. You need to have some one with you in case the blockage is too bad to be relieved by mineral oil. Then you do all the fiber etc. What might be causing the blockage? That is important to know. It could be something bad. Have you had any abdominal surgery? If so that could be it.

answered by n

I'm not sure what you mean by "bowel stops working altogether". Are you saying that you have not had bowel movements for sometime? If you have distention and there is infrequent or difficult evacuation of intestinal contents, then you may have constipation. In case of constipation, please read more about your condition and check out our natural home treatments to cure constipation.

Dietary Considerations in Constipation:

1. Increase intake of high fiber foods- Eat whole grains and whole cereals instead of refined ones. Consume fibrous fruits and vegetables. Eat coarse bran as a breakfast cereal. Add cooked fruits and vegetables to bran for palatability. Additional fibre intake from supplements such as psyllium husk available OTC as Metamucil can be consumed.
2. Drink plenty of water (8-10 glasses) daily to keep intestinal contents in a semisolid state for easier passage along the digestive tract.
3. Fat containing foods such as bacon, cream, oil, butter are useful for some due to stimulating effects of fatty acids on mucous membranes.

Temporary or chronic constipation can be due to a number of reasons. It is important to determine the cause so that proper treatment can be given. Worry, anxiety, fatigue and life style changes can cause emotional upsets and give rise to constipation. Practice meditation and de-stress activities.

Usually surgery is the last option when all other non-invasive treatment options fail. I would suggest you to consult a gastroenterologist for individualized advice regarding your specific condition.

answered by P P