Is constipation associated with diabetic medications?
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Hi, my father is 72 years old, retired from his service. He has a history of type 2 diabetes for last 5 years and is on hypoglycemic medication. He is also suffering from constipation and its a huge concern for him. His symptoms include hard or lumpy stool, difficulty in passing stool, feeling of the bowel is not empty, bloating, infrequent bowel movements. Is this constipation associated with diabetes? Can anyone suggest laxatives or any home remedies? Please comment.
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@Kanish A person with diabetes-related constipation may experience alternating constipation and diarrhea. Nerve damage can cause the intestines to move food either too quickly, which can result in diarrhea, or too slowly, which can lead to constipation. If a person experiences any of the following symptoms, they should seek medical attention:
blood in the stool
Bleeding from the rectum
Constant abdominal pain
vomiting
inability to pass gas
Laxatives are a potential treatment option for people with diabetes-related constipation. However, some laxatives may cause a spike in blood sugar, which might make them unsuitable for people with diabetes. Also, manufacturers do not necessarily create laxatives for long term use, so it may not be safe or effective to use them for extended periods. If a person wishes to use laxatives, they should ask their doctor which types are safe to use regularly. Laxatives that are safe for most people include:
bulk-forming laxatives
lubricants
osmotic laxatives
stool softeners
A person with diabetes should always talk to their doctor before taking laxatives.
A person with diabetes may not need to see a doctor about constipation. They can first take several steps to try to treat their constipation at home. These include:
drinking more water
eating more fiber
doing more exercise
In addition, it is important for people with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels. A person with diabetes will be less likely to develop constipation if they can manage their blood sugar levels effectively and consistently. By doing this, they will also reduce their risk of having other symptoms and complications, including nerve damage. -