If basic treatment works for Constipation, it’s usually not necessary to perform tests. This can even be managed without a physical exam, by telemedicine.
Very Basic (and Essential) Lifestyle Interventions:
- Increase fiber in diet
- Increase fluid intake
- Increase exercise (cardio)
Simple Medications:
If hard stools, options include:
- Stool Softeners (taken twice a day, every day).
- Polyethylene Glycol (Miralaxยฎ, and others), Sorbitol, Lactulose, etc. Taken daily.
If normal stool consistency:
- Natural or synthetic fibers like Psyllium & others (Metamucilยฎ, CitrucelV, FIberconยฎ, SuprafiberV, etc.). Taken daily.
- Polyethylene Glycol (Miralaxยฎ, and others), Sorbitol, Lactulose, etc. Taken daily.
For feeling an urge but unable to defecate, as-needed medications (not usually daily):
- Senna
- Bisacodyl