Recently asked to me:
| Hi Stuart, I have spoken with many people who have MS, and have found 1 thing in common- they have been constipated all their lives- go to the bathroom once or twice a week only- is there any way we can get some info. on this? The last person I asked told me "never has any of my doctors asked me this ques." Regards, "D" Well "D"., I do not know if constipation affects everybody the same, so I would not generalize and say that all with ms have the same everyday battle. My answer though ( and remember that I am not an MS nor a healthcare professional ) is: : FIBER ! Supplements and foods high in fiber. And from another MS Source for information ( and I will say, a very good source), read what they show: As a symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), constipation is really a bummer. It can be chronic, rather than coming and going. You can spend days existing with a feeling of “not rightness.” It can get painful. It is also not really something that many of us feel comfortable talking about, so we silently suffer with the problem, rather than getting the sympathy and help that we need. You need to seek help for this problem, as it could cause permanent damage and lead to unpleasant procedures. The remedy could be as simple as changing some of your medications, or developing an "elimination schedule" to encourage regularity. Read the full article and learn about some of the causes of constipation in people with MS:Constipation as a Symptom of Multiple Sclerosis Click here for Natural Treatments for relief of constipation |
So, I hope that this posting did not "obstruct" ( a play with words) your current or next meal...
Have a Nice day and "D" - thanks for Bringing-up the subject ...
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2 comments:
The following advice was taken from about.com:
"Constipation in MS can be caused by any of the following factors (or a combination): Neurological Damage: As mentioned, stool must keep moving. In PwMS, lesions may prevent the brain from accurately receiving or transmitting signals that control conscious attempts to have a bowel movement. In other words, you may not be receiving the signal that you “have to go,” or you are
unable to effectively relax and push as needed to have a bowel movement. The involuntary movements that keep the stool moving through the lower parts of the digestive tract may also be impaired. Again, these problems are compounded by the stool being too hard to pass easily, due to prolonged time in the colon.
An important component of intestinal motility (the movement of digested food through the intestines) is physical activity, such as walking. Many of us are unable to move around and walk much, due to weakness, spasticity, sensory ataxia or fatigue. (I’m in a wheelchair.)
Not Drinking Enough Water: I know that I am guilty of cutting back on the water to prevent some of my bladder-related symptoms, especially nocturia. Some PwMS also reduce fluid intake when they are going out or travelling, as getting to a restroom may be difficult. I cannot say it enough: It is important thaet you drink plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day if you have MS. Besides
leading to constipation."
I find that using Microlax miniature suppositories 3 or 4 times a week is the answer: you choose the time and place (not your bowels!) and it removes any "forcing" which can be painful and dangerous (by putting a strain on the heart).
A good diet is simply not enough for PwMS. We live in a cortijo on a smallholding with fresh figs, grapes, oranges, avocados, hog-plums, (ciruelas), medlars (nisperos), persimmons (caquis), pomegranates (granadas), quince (membrillos), and papayas all part of our diet. You’d think that would do the trick!
I know I’d rather have firm stools passed when “I” choose, rather than clear-up dirty laundry. You can’t have it both ways. ¡Saludos! Janus en españa.
I am a registered dietitian with constipation AND MS. I very much agree with all of what the previous comment said.
I would like to point out that having a bowel movement every day is not normal for everyone, but if what you're feeling deviates from your norm, make sure you're taking action.
I eat a lot of fiber normally, but when you do, you must also drink a lot of water. I found that because I exercise less, this doesn't help.
One thing that did help: only try to go to the bathroon when you feel the urge. The more I fretted about being constipated, the more of a problem it became. I know it's easier said than done, but try not to think about it. This really does help.
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