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A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Mishawaka, IN

I have told my family Dr that I deal with constipation. She prescribed Senna and I’m still having issues. I’m drinking lots of water, eating right, and taking Senna but my constipation will last days. Do I need to tell my Neurologist about this too?

November 19, 2018
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Answer Summary

Members strongly encouraged speaking up about constipation with both a family doctor and a neurologist, noting that bowel issues are very... Read more

Members strongly encouraged speaking up about constipation with both a family doctor and a neurologist, noting that bowel issues are very common in MS and deserve ongoing attention until real relief is found. Several members shared helpful strategies including magnesium powder like Natural Calm, warm prune juice, Colace, probiotics, Smooth Move Tea, and referrals to a gastroenterologist for more targeted care. A recurring theme was the importance of advocating for yourself and not staying quiet about uncomfortable symptoms, because effective solutions are out there.

A MyMSTeam Member

If you tell your Neuro, he will probably have some other remedies that have worked for other patients, or he may want to send you to a gastroenterologist. I have had issues such as yours for about 15 years now. They gave me everything there was but ultimately, I found my answer myself. It kind of sucks, but I use a magnesium product called natural calm and use part of a disposable saline enema to get things going.

The natural calm works like Phillips caplets. It comes as powder and it is essentially ground up Epsom salt ( in a pinch, I use Epsom salt ) with flavoring. The knockoffs all taste funny to me. I saw it in Wal-Mart. If you try it read the instructions on how to prepare it.

Worst comes to worst you become impacted and i have put on a glove with some lube and loosened stuff up. I have friends who will go to the hospital ER at this point.

If anyone is offended please read the book "everybody poops". Feel well-jj

November 19, 2018
A MyMSTeam Member

I hope the extra water and fiber can get things right, I hate when I can't punish the porcelain and my insides get punished. Lol, JoannaJo, my grandpops used to do this to my older brother when he was baby and constipated I hear, lol glad he older than me no doubt. I kind of wish I could be constipated only in public, oh boy my timing has gotten better over the years cause when its time, likely no turning back. Geesh, we can't sleep on MS at no times!!!

November 25, 2018
A MyMSTeam Member

Yes tell them all! I hope this helps.
Bowel problems in MS
Constipation is the most common bowel symptom in MS. A bowel management program includes dietary manipulation (such as increasing fiber content), increasing fluid intake (which may create difficulty for those who also have bladder problems), and ensuring a regular and sufficient time for bowel movements. Varying combinations of fiber, stool softeners and peristaltic stimulants are usually needed.

November 19, 2018
A MyMSTeam Member

I would.

November 19, 2018
A MyMSTeam Member

Eye opener. They need to air that code blue article on TV.

November 24, 2018

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