Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
I am Dr.Ratnakar Kini and I am pleased to assist you.
Though you have a family history of colon cancer, it is less likely that the change in bowel habit during the past one year is due to development of cancer. It may be still due to functional constipation. A change is lifestyle, food habits might explain this change in bowel habits. Lifestyle changes and medications would be beneficial.
High fiber diet, lot of fluids, increased physical activity, fiber supplements ( like metamucil) or miralax would provide relief.
You may also consider getting your blood glucose level tested and also get a thyroid function test done. High blood glucose and hypothyroidism can cause constipation.
I hope that answers your question. Please let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr.Ratnakar Kini
Patient replied :
Thank you for your answer! I've been drinking 3-4 liters of water a day, eating high fiber foods, taking Metmucil, and exercising. I feel like if this approach was going to work it would have kicked in by now. I have not tried Miralax before. Is it non-habit forming and safe to use on a regular basis?
Hi,
Miralax is a wonderful medication for treating constipaton. You can take miralax for relief from constipation.
No , it is no habit forming. It is a very safe medication and we prescribe it for even kids.
As mentioned in my previous post, get your blood glucose level checked and also get the thyroid function test done.
Please let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr.Ratnakar Kini