Expert: J.P. Saleeby, MD - 2/28/2004

Question
hello dear,
          hope to find u in good health.i have a question regarding constipation.if a person has the problem of constipation occasionally can he cure himself other than medication.kindly tell me the tips that one can experiment successfully to prevent the conditions of constipation whenever it happens.hope to make my point clear.
regards
abdul rahman sheikh

Answer
Any acute changes is bowel habits warrants a work up by a gastroenterologist... it my be caused by a tumor, or other mechanical blockage of the GI tract.  That being said, increase your fiber and water intake (flax seed, greens, soluable and insoluable fiber, fresh fruits).  Make sure any medication that you take does not have constipation as a side effect.  Make sure your water intake follows this formula:  (your weight in pounds (lbs) divided by 2) and use that number in ounces (oz) of water to be consumed daily.

JP Saleeby, MD