HOW TO STOP CONSTIPATION

Constipation can run the gamut from a mild annoyance to severe pain. Chances are if you’ve waited the better part of a week for a bowel movement, you’re ready for a quick fix. Treatments that give fast relief may come with side-effects like cramping, gas and diarrhea so be sure to try the more natural methods, such as adding fiber, water and diuretics to your diet before trying these remedies.



1
Start your day with a drink of water with lemon. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into an eight oz. (0.24l) cup of warm water. Drink it immediately after you wake up to encourage a bowel movement.

2

Follow with a cup of coffee or a yogurt and fruit smoothie. If either of these dietary suggestions has you running for the bathroom in general, they are a good place to start each morning. Both can cause gas and cramping, so just be sure to be near a toilet so that you can take advantage of the urge.

3

Drink up to 16 oz. (0.47l) of prune juice. The high amount of sorbitol and fiber makes this a go to remedy. The more you ingest, up to 16 oz., the more likely you are to get fast relief.
Just like laxatives, prune juice can cause cramping and diarrhea. You will need to balance that with the need for fast relief.
Ensure you are near a bathroom or at home if using this remedy, since the need to go to the bathroom may be painful and immediate
　
　

4

Administer an Epsom salts laxative. Dissolve two tbsp. of Epsom salts in 8 oz. (0.24l) of water or juice. Drink the mixture to get the benefits of salt and magnesium that cause softer stools and bowel contractions, respectively.
If you don’t get relief in four hours, repeat with the same mixture
Warm water or juice will help the salts to dissolve completely. Make sure the salts are completely dissolved before ingesting.
　

 
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1

Try a suppository. These pills can be inserted into the rectum in order to stimulate a bowel movement if the need is necessary. Many people find these pills more comfortable than the enema method; however, they may not provide relief as quickly.

　

2

Move on to a rectal (liquid) enema, such as Fleet brand, if you need immediate relief from constipation. In severe cases, this can be used with milder methods as listed above. Read the directions carefully and make sure you are in a comfortable place within very close proximity to a bathroom.
Ready the enema according to package instructions.
Lay on your side or with your buttocks slightly elevated.
Insert the tip of the enema into the rectum and squeeze the liquid into the rectum. You do not need to empty the container.
Stay in this position for one to five minutes, or until you feel the urge to use the bathroom.
Use the bathroom repeatedly as needed.
Call your doctor if you’ve used an enema, but haven’t had relief within 30 minutes.