Medical Questions » Gut (Intestines) Questions » Question No. 438
| Question: | I am a 54 year old female, and for some years my bowels have caused pain. I have to use an enema to go to the toilet, but afterwards I have pain at the bottom of my stomach. Should I go to a doctor? |
| Answer: | Anyone who has persistent constipation should not use laxatives or enemas regularly, but should be investigated by a doctor to find out why they are constipated. If laxatives are used regularly, the bowels become dependent upon them to work, and a long-term habit that is very difficult to bteak may develop.
Over-stimulation of the bowel by enemas may cause spasm and pain in the bowel. Your symptoms may be caused by the treatments you are using.
The best treatment for constipation is prevention, and that means a diet high in fibre and fluids, and passing a motion every day. The best time to do this is immediately after the main meal of the day.
You should certainly see a doctor to have your chronic bowel condition sorted out.
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