Hi,
I was looking up constipation online and from what I found, it seems it is when you have go have a BM movement but can't. My problem is that I never have to have a movement or feel the urge to. I know the last time I went was over a week ago, and even then, the stool was small and hard. I am worried because I have eaten several meals since them (farely large) and then havent come out yet! My diet is well I think. I eat fruit daily, have cereal, milk, meat, I love carbs (which have fiber) My main concern is that I am very very bloated. I live in Las Vegas and at my job, have to wear a midriff top. I have to take off work because my belly looks pregnant! I took a laxative 12 hours ago, I just had a movement, but again small and hard.
What should I do..what about colonic cleansing???

What about water intake? Not including regular beverages, you need to consume the proper amount of water on a daily basis or anything else you do to stay regular will not matter. This is just my opinion but I can't even imagine not going for a week and I wonder it's really in your best interest to take a stimulant laxative in this condition because it may cause a more serious problem. At this point, your best advice should come from a doctor.

[This message has been edited by gar fla (edited 07-09-2003).]

What kind of problems do laxatives cause? (besides dehydrating you)

Laxatives cause your colon to lose muscle tone resulting a lazy bowel.

In addition to causing a lazy bowel if used regularly, laxatives (even senna and cascara) can be dangerous if you happen to have a bowel obstruction.

Bowel obstruction? How do I know if I have that? I am thinking about getting a colonic cleansing done, any suggestions?

I'll be the first to admit that I avoid doctors if at all possible but maybe you should see a doctor in your case. In fact, I almost avoided going to the hospital when I had what turned out to be appendicitis! Who knows, it may not be serious but self diagnosis will not completely put your mind at ease and can also be dangerous if a serius condition is not given the proper basic treatment.

[This message has been edited by gar fla (edited 07-13-2003).]

I certainly agree with gar!!!

God Bless---Harry