Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

The Worst Ways to Manage Constipation-and What to Do Instead

Constipation is a common problem that affects millions, including many people in Houston. But not all remedies are helpful. Some actually make things worse. At Gastrodoxs, we help people avoid these mistakes and find relief.
In this article, Dr. Bharat Pothuri shares expert tips. You’ll learn why quick fixes can backfire, and what works better—from simple home strategies to nursing support.

Why You Should Treat Constipation the Right Way

Ignoring constipation can lead to pain, bloating, and problems like hemorrhoids. For older adults and pregnant women, it can affect daily comfort and overall health. Managing it early makes recovery easier.

Dr. Bharat Pothuri says:

“Many people believe constipation is normal. But it’s often a sign that your diet, water intake, or habits need attention. Fixing it early helps prevent other issues.”

Section 1: The Worst Ways to Manage Constipation

1.1 Ignoring the Problem

• What goes wrong: You wait it out, hoping for natural improvement.
• Why it backfires: Hard stool builds up and becomes painful to pass. This increases the risk of fissures or hemorrhoids.
• Smarter option: Track your habits. If you’re having fewer than three bowel movements per week, take action sooner rather than later.

1.2 Relying Too Much on Stimulant Laxatives

• The mistake: Taking pills like senna or bisacodyl daily.
• The risk: Your bowel can become dependent, making natural movement harder.
• Better method: Use stimulant laxatives only when necessary, and no longer than seven days. Start instead with fiber or osmotic laxatives after checking with a doctor.

1.3 Overusing Over-the-Counter Remedies

• The issue: Buying and mixing multiple constipation treatments.
• Why it fails: Some products cancel each other out or cause side effects like bloating or cramps.
• What works better: A personalized plan from your provider, including fluid intake, fiber, safe supplements, and daily movement.

1.4 Just Taking Fiber Powders

• What people try: Mixing fiber in water without other changes.
• Why it’s ineffective: Without hydration and activity, fiber can make symptoms worse.
• A better approach: Combine fiber with at least 8 glasses of water daily and light exercise like walking or stretching.

1.5 Skipping Medical Advice

• What happens: You follow social media or forum advice instead of seeing a doctor.
• Why it’s risky: Constipation may have deeper causes—like medications or thyroid issues.
• What to do: If symptoms don’t improve after one week, consult a healthcare professional.

Section 2: What to Avoid (and What to Do Instead) in Special Cases

2.1 Constipation in Older Adults

• What to avoid:
  • Daily stimulant laxatives
  • Drinking less water to avoid frequent urination
  • Avoiding activity due to weakness or fear of falling
• What helps:
  • Mild laxatives like polyethylene glycol
  • Steady fluid intake (6–8 cups/day)
  • Seated stretches or short walks a few times per day

Dr. Pothuri explains: “Older adults often need custom care—hydration, safe movement, and the right fiber choices make a big difference.”

2.2 Constipation in Pregnancy

• Poor choices:
  • Using strong laxatives without medical advice
  • Ignoring cramping
  • Suddenly increasing fiber too much
• Better steps:
  • Drink at least 9 cups of water per day
  • Eat fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Use OB-approved stool softeners like docusate sodium
  • Nurses can guide you on gentle stretching and proper posture

Dr. Pothuri advises: “Pregnant women should avoid stimulant laxatives. Instead, choose safe, gradual strategies that focus on food, fluids, and comfort.”

2.3 Managing Chronic Constipation

• Mistakes to avoid:
  • Not looking into possible medical causes
  • Using many laxatives at the same time
  • Relying on short-term solutions
• What works long-term:
  • Get a full evaluation from a GI specialist
  • Start with fiber, then add osmotic or prokinetic agents if needed
  • Create a steady routine with diet, hydration, movement, and stress control

Section 3: Common Myths—And the Truth

Myth: Coffee is a cure-all.

Truth: It can help short-term but also dehydrates your system.

Myth: Fasting clears out your bowels.

Truth: Eating too little actually slows digestion.

Myth: Daily enemas are safe.

Truth: Overuse can disrupt your natural gut function.

Section 4: Summary Chart—Bad Habits vs. Better Options

Section 5: Quick Relief Tips During Pregnancy

If you’re pregnant and constipated, try these gentle steps:

• Warm water with lemon first thing in the morning
• OB-approved stool softeners like docusate sodium
• Gentle yoga poses, such as “Cat-Cow”
• One prune or 2 tablespoons of prune juice
• A 10-minute walk around your neighborhood

Dr. Pothuri notes: “These methods usually help within a few hours. If not, check with your OB-GYN.”

Section 6: Nurse Support for Constipation

Nurses can assist by:

• Tracking food and bathroom patterns
• Teaching the best bathroom posture (feet on a small stool)
• Suggesting fiber snacks like apples or pears
• Encouraging safe, daily movement

Section 7: Tips from Gastrodoxs Gastroenterologists

• Start your day with warm water and ginger
• Go to the bathroom at the same time each morning
• Keep a journal to find food-related triggers
• Use breathing exercises to help calm your gut

Section 8: Houston Resources for Support

• Houston Digestive Health Center: Free constipation classes
• Memorial Hermann Clinics: Nurse-led programs
• Houston Heights Gyms: Prenatal yoga classes
• Montrose Farmers Markets: Fresh, fiber-rich produce

Section 9: Final Thoughts

Constipation can affect your comfort, focus, and overall health. Avoid the mistakes that make it worse—like overusing laxatives or skipping medical guidance. Instead, choose a safe plan with support from professionals like Dr. Bharat Pothuri and the team at Gastrodoxs.

Closing Note

You don’t have to live with constipation. With the right care, good habits, and medical support, you can find lasting relief. At Gastrodoxs, we’re here to help you take the right steps forward.

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.