Constipation - Ataxia or not?

I’m OK. You fell backward and I slipped in the shower at about the same time. Recovery took awhile.

Yes, I tend to be permanently constipated since my Ataxia got worse. What really helps me is eating a few dried prunes during the daytime. That’s also what they used to give to my mother in the nursing home, when she was wheelchair bound all day…

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Also important is to eat dietary fiber during the day as well as drinking 8 glasses of water.

When mobility is severely affected it can make problems with constipation worse….the digestive system can get sluggish.
Over the years I’ve always had issues..probably because I was dehydrated, I always drank coffee….hardly ever just water.
Now..I’m careful to sip water during meals, to break up stodgy food and hopefully alleviate potential problems.

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I always read posts relating to constipation. At 82years and late onset CA, it’s always been a problem. I have dealt with it in numerous ways but in phases. When one thing stops working, I try another. However I now have reverse and not wanting tests or treatment, just the poo lab home tests, I have presumed diagnosis of IBS.
I definitely consider it to be ataxia related and very pleased to see it discussed over the years. I have consolation at the moment, I can eat cheese.

Have you tried Miralax? I go to a Gastro MD. He suggested Miralax which is not a laxative. It works with the water in your system and it softens the waste so it’s easier to pass. Plus you can take it more than the 7 days without it becoming a problem. Just drink a lot of water during the day.

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I still think that constipation is connected with Ataxia. I’m not saying that all constipation means that the person has Ataxia but muscle control and coordination are required to make things move. Am I wrong?

As a young child..I had Acute Appendicitis. My appendix burst, and I had abscesses. I recall being told not to become constipated…I’ve never forgotten.
:thinking:I think my issues stem from this…but I am aware that I don’t keep sufficiently hydrated which doesn’t help.

So sorry to hear of that Beryl. Yes, my Gastro MD told me to drink 8 glasses of water each day even if I wasn’t thirsty. Also you can even drink 100% fruit juices. Decaf coffee is better than caf coffee.

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:slightly_smiling_face:I’m drinking juice right now. I did change to decaf coffee :+1:

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Hope that liquid is helping :grin:

:slightly_smiling_face: I had good intentions…but inevitably lost track of time and wasn’t able to fit enough liquid into my day …so back to starting from scratch :crossed_fingers:

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