Stool Softener

[denise1040]

Hello Everyone,
I am preparing to start pd dialysis. Have not had the surgery yet for the catheter, but will see surgeon on the 8th of Nov.
I am on hemo right now, have been for 2 yrs. My question is, I have read on this forum about constipation and peritonitis. Not sure if I am constipated, but usually only have a bm everyone 3 or 4 days. Heard this is not good for pd. Do you think I should start taking  a stool softener now to get my bowels in order? If so what do most people take?

[billybags]

Hi Denise, welcome to the site. You are correct about constipation on pd,   it matters hell of a lot. My husband has to take 3 senocote (don't know what you would call them in America) twice a day whether he needs to or not,he also has to take a stool softer twice a day. The bowels play a really important part when you are on PD, if you get constipated your fluids will not flow out and it can also cause complications. Good luck with it.

[peleroja]

I'm surprised your neph hasn't prescribed stool softener yet.  As for me I take the CVS brand at night.

[KICKSTART]

Plain Senna usually does the trick ...doesnt make you run to the loo either !

[clappedout]

Hi

Dont take the harse stuff  xlax etc that can cause probs a s well ..I agree with other replyer Senna keeps you nice and regular

[*kana*]

I poo twice a day and benefit greatly from stool softeners.  Didn't think I needed them until I had drain issues and alarms and they went away with the softeners.   

[tito]

I was prescribed a liquid laxative which is basically sugar water. Never had any problem in this department, and I stopped taking the laxative. I go once a day like clockwork - thanks to a fiber-rich diet - lots of fruits, vegetables and high fiber cereal in the morning.

My phosphorous unfortuantely is high, and my dietician recommended white bread over whole grain, Rice Krispies instead of Kashi cereal. I know that my diet is keeping me healthy and regular, so the dietician has had to modify her recommendations. I also take extra binders to control the phosphorous. But, I'm regular!

Another instance where our lifestyles are important to us and should not just be thrown away without looking at the whole picture.