Hi, I am having issues the last 2 weeks with constipation. My bowel is normally very active and normal and I use the bathroom daily. I developed a neuropathic flare from accidental gluten ingestion (trace of malt vinegar in steak sauce) and since then my bowel acts dead. I don't know if it is related to the flare or just coincidental, but it is no fun. I drank prune juice and had a tiny gurgle, ate cherries which usually cause overaction, nothing. I guess I will have to take a laxative, but does anyone else experience this with a neuropathic flare? I am dealing with the neuropathy in my left leg and instead of sensory it is more spasticity and pain. Years ago my primary gave me a few days of Reglan and it helped. Thanks.
First, there are no embarrassing questions!Asking a question of any sort is acceptable and encouraged
Now to the issue. Over the years I've had many swings in bowel behaviour, sometimes in a matter of hours, back and forth, so I've never really associated it with any particular type of flare, but one thing I have found is that Magnesium seems to regulate things, at least for me. And Magnesium is known to be helpful in diabetic neuropathy, and maintaining adequate levels of Magnesium could potentially help in preventing peripheral neuropathy Add to that the laxative effect of Magnesium, and it may help
The most bioavailable form of Magnesium is Citrate, and, as with many OTC supplements, recommendations are to start slow (usually one tablet as directed on the label) and increase as needed to effect, without exceeding recommended daily totals. Your pharmacist should be able to help you with dosing, once you tell him why you are planning to take it.
I second the use of magnesium! I take 1000 units per day because I take opiates for pain, and you all know that opiates cause constipation. Anyway, I'm regular enough with magnesium supplements. Maybe check with your Dr. to make sure it's okay for you. Good luck!!
Hi!
I'm always constipated with gastritis, esophagitis, and barrettes esophagus, with horrible GERD.
I'm sure it's all from Sjogrens! My GI symptoms started first and I feel like everything is slow in my GI tract. I've used magnesium in the past and it helped me, but now I use a mild laxative. Increasing fiber really hasn't helped me. It just makes me feel bloated but I eat it anyway.
Whatever you decide to do will work.
Kathy
OMG. I just posted almost the same thing. I'm drinking extra water and taking a stool softener. It is only helping a little.
Magnesium Citrate?
Something that helps me greatly is an herbal tea called Smooth Move. It has senna in it. You can get it on Amazon and most health food stores. I like it because it is very gentle. You have a cup at night after steeping the tea bag for 10-15 minutes. And generally you'll go the next day.