The Worst Ways to Manage Constipation

Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG | Updated On 05-15-2025

The most Unhealthy Advice on Constipation-and What to do Otherwise

Constipation is one such issue that afflicts millions of people including a good number in Houston. However, not every remedy is useful. Others, on the contrary, aggravate the situation. We do not want people to make these mistakes and find relief at Gastrodoxs.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides professional advice in this article. You will be able to understand the reasons why short-term solutions may turn in your face, and what is more effective, between the simple house tricks and the nursing assistance.

Why You Should correct Constipation the Right Way

Loss of pains, bloat, and such issues as hemorrhoids may be experienced due to neglect of constipation. It may impact the daily comfort and general well-being of older adults and pregnant women. It is easy to manage at an earlier age and that will recover.

Dr. Bharat Pothuri says:

Half the population assumes that constipation is normal. It is however a frequent indicator that something has to be done on your diet, the amount of water you consume, or your habits. Early diagnosis ensures that other problems are avoided.

Introduction: The Dumbest Constipation Cures

1.1 Ignoring the Problem

• What goes amiss: You just ride it, hoping that things will improve.
• The reason why it backfires: Hard stools accumulate and become painful to get out. This puts one at risk of fissures or hemorrhoids.
• Smartperk: Monitor your habits. When you are not experiencing three or more bowel movements in a week, then act now rather than later.

1.2 Over Overdependence on Stimulant Laxative

• The fallacy: Putting pills such as senna or bisacodyl day by day.
• The danger: You may get bowel dependence and thus find it difficult to move naturally.
• Better method: Stimulant laxatives should not be used unless the need arises and not more than seven days. Begin with fiber or osmotic laxatives upon consultation with the doctor.

1.3 Excessive use of Non-prescription drugs

• The problem: Purchase and combination of various constipation constipation remedies.
• Why it does not work: There are products that cancel, others have side effects such as bloating or cramps.
• Better option: An individual plan of your provider, with fluid consumption, fiber, safe supplements, and daily activity.

1.4 Just Taking Fiber Powders

• What the people attempt: Adding fiber in water without divergent alterations.
• Why it does not work: fiber should not worsen the symptoms, but it does without hydration or physical activity.
• An improved solution: Incorporate fiber with at least 8 glasses of water a day together with light exercise such as walking or stretching.

1.5 Skipping Medical Advice

• What occurs: You listen to social media or websites and forums rather than visiting a doctor.
• Why it is dangerous: Constipation can be more profound in nature.
• What to do: If the symptoms do not improve within a period of one week, visit a health care practitioner.

Section 2: What to do (and not to do) in Special Cases

2.1 Older Adult Constipation

• What to avoid:
  • Daily stimulant laxatives.
  • Increased thirst, which makes a person consume less water to pass urine.
  • The preventions include avoiding activity because of weakness or fall fear.
• What helps:
  • Movable laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol.
  • Steady fluid intake (6-8 cups/day)
  • Sitting or limited walks two or three times in a day.

Dr. Pothuri The elderly require special attention hydration, secured movement, and appropriate fiber selection are key issues.

2.2 Constipation in Pregnancy

• Poor choices:
  • Self-prescription of strong laxatives.
  • Ignoring cramping.
  • Fiber is gradually rising and you suddenly raise it.
• Better steps:
  • Take water at least 9 cups per day.
  • Consume fruits, vegetables and whole grains with a high content of fiber.
  • Take stool softeners that are approved by OB such as docusate sodium.
  • Nurses are able to instruct you about easy stretching and correct posture.

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

2.3 Treatment of Chronic Constipation

• Mistakes to avoid:
  • Failure to investigate potential medical reasons.
  • Taking a great deal of laxatives simultaneously.
  • Depending on the short term solutions.
• What works long-term:
  • Get complete assessment by GI specialist.
  • Begin with fiber, then osmotic or prokinetic agents may be added.
  • Establish a regular schedule in terms of food, water, exercise, and managing stress.

Section 3: Common Myths - And the Truth

Myth: Coffee is a cure-all.

Truth: It will help, but will also dry your system out.

Myth: The fast cleans out your bowels.

Truth: The fact is that under eating retards the digestion.

Myth: Daily enemas are safe.

Truth: When taken excessively, it may upset your natural gut.

Section 4: Conclusion Chart -Bad Habits vs. Better Options

Section 5: Rapid Relief measures in Pregnancy

In case you are pregnant and constipated, follow these mild measures:

• Lemon water in the morning before going to bed.
• Stool softeners approved by OB such as docusate sodium.
• Mellow yoga postures, like Cat-Cow.
• 1 prune or two tablespoons of prune juice.
• Ten minutes of strolling outside your place of neighborhood.

According to Dr. Pothuri: “Such practices tend to work in only a few hours. If not, check with your OB-GYN."

Section 6: Nurse Support to Constipation

Nurses can assist by:

• Monitoring bathroom and food habits.
• Educating about the optimal posture in the bathroom (foot on a stool, which is small).
• Proposing snacks made of fiber such as apples or pears.
• Promoting healthy, active daily movement.

Section 7: Gastrodoxs Gastroenterologists Tips

• Begin the day with hot water and ginger.
• Wake up in a bathroom at around the same time.
• Make a diary to discover food triggers.
• Breathe exercises will help to calm your gut.

Section 8: Houston Resources of Support

• Houston Digestive Health Center: Free courses on constipation.
• Memorial Hermann Clinics: Nurse-initiated programs.
• Houston Heights Gyms: Prenatal yoga.
• Montrose Farmers Markets: Produce has a lot of fiber.

Section 9: Final Thoughts

The problem of Constipation may lead to discomfort, concentration, and well-being. It does not help to make it worse with the mistakes, such as using too many laxatives or not consulting the doctor. Rather, select a risk-free plan and have the assistance of such practitioners as Dr. Bharat Pothuri and Gastrodoxs staff.

Closing Note

There is no need to live with constipation. Through proper protection, proper habits, and proper medical attention, one can be assured of permanent relief. At Gastrodoxs, we will assist you in choosing the right steps to follow.

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.