How do I manage severe constipation and hypothyroidism?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had terrible constipation for two years, where I only go once a week or less. It is painful, I feel bloated and miserable all the time. I also have hypothyroidism, where I am always tired, cold, gaining weight, and my hair is falling out.

Is my thyroid causing my constipation?
Am I on the right thyroid medicine dose?
Should I check my levels?
What can I do about constipation?
What is the difference between fiber supplements, stool softeners, and laxatives?
Will my bowels stop working on their own if I use laxatives?
What foods help?
Should I eat more fiber or take probiotics, or will that make bloating worse?
Will my constipation get better?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I would like you to know that decreased bowel movement could be due to multiple reasons. One could be a lack of water intake or insufficient fibre in the diet. Taking a diet that is full of spices and oils may also trigger constipation.

Fibre is a very important component of our diet. Without fibre, our balanced plate is incomplete. Fibre can be soluble and non-soluble types. Soluble types of fibre are chia seeds, flax seeds, fruits, and similar foods. Insoluble fibres are present in salads, fruits, millets, and similar foods. Refined flour lacks fibre, and therefore, all baked items and junk foods lack fibre and are considered unhealthy.

Hypothyroidism does present with all the symptoms that you are experiencing, along with constipation. You need to get a thyroid function test done on an empty stomach. Kindly follow up with reports. You also need to give me details of the medicine and dose that you are taking for hypothyroidism. Along with this, the following measures can help you manage constipation more effectively:

Stool softeners are not habit-forming and can be taken safely.
You can take Bisacodyl tablets, which act as stimulant laxatives.
Bisacodyl is available as oral tablets and rectal suppositories.
Add fibre-rich foods to your diet.
Drink enough fluids every day.
You may also take fibre in the form of Isphaghul (psyllium husk).
Exercise daily and maintain a healthy diet.
If the problem continues, visit a gastroenterologist to rule out other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome.
You can take Bisacodyl 10 mg orally once daily at bedtime with 50 ml of lukewarm milk.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

How do I manage severe constipation and hypothyroidism?

Constipation and Hypothyroidism: Build your awareness map.