For Constipation

People normally have bowel movements once a day, more than once a day, or only every few days. So what may be constipation for one person may not be a concern to another person. If you feel discomfort from not having a normal bowel movement for you, then there are many ways to try to relieve the constipation.

• Adding fiber to your diet or taking a fiber supplement is the preferred method. This will increase the amount of water in your stools. You can also take a bacterial supplement, which will add "healthy" bacteria into your intestines to soften the stool. If this does not solve the problem, it is recommended to use enemas. Glycerin suppositories and mineral oil are also effective and safe.
  
  
• If the problem persists, you may want to try some medicines that can help. Bisacodyl (Correctol, Dulcolax), calcium docusate (Colace, Surfak), and the sennosides (Ex-lax, Senokot) are the most commonly available medicines that are considered safe and effective. If you do not have a bowel movement after taking them, if the stool is bloody or black, or if you have abdominal pain or fever, you should see a doctor.