constipation

All Laxatives are not the same.
Manevac (Senna) is a stimulant laxative that increases intestinal motility and can often cause abdominal cramps, they should be avoided in intestinal obstruction. It really is only speeding the process up rather than softening the stools which is probably what may be needed. If they don't work then an Osmotic Laxative should really be considered. Something that softens the stools and allows an easier bowel movement.

It may be that what you have been prescribed just isn't suitable for you and your particular type of constipation. This one also isn't really advisable for DIabetic's because of the sugar content. Ask for a sugar free laxative. One that softens the stools rather than one that just encourages the bowel to just empty. Movicol is a good example........an Osmotic laxative.

There are four types of laxative and each type works in a different way.

Bulk-forming laxatives
Bulk-forming laxatives contain fibre and act in the same way as the dietary fibre that you eat.
Bulk-forming laxatives increase the bulk of your faeces, making them heavier and softer. The extra bulk encourages your bowel to contract and move your faeces through so that it can be passed.
Bulk-forming laxatives can take a few days before they are effective. They are taken by mouth (orally) as powders, granules, or tablets.

Stimulant laxatives
Stimulant laxatives speed up the movements of your bowel. They usually take between six and 12 hours to work. Stimulant laxatives come in many different forms, including tablets and liquids, which are swallowed. They are also available as suppositories and enemas that are inserted into your rectum (back passage).

Osmotic laxatives
Osmotic laxatives help to make your faeces softer by increasing the amount of water in your bowels. Like bulk-forming laxatives, they usually work after a few days.
Osmotic laxatives come in several different forms, including powders, liquids and enemas.

Stool softener laxatives
Stool softener laxatives work in a similar way to osmotic laxatives; they add water to your faeces to lubricate it, making it more slippery and easier to pass. They are taken as capsules, or enemas, and usually take one to two days to work.

There are also many other things that can cause constipation. You should drink plenty of water, at least 2 litres daily and eat fiber rich foods such as fruit, vegetables and cereals as well. Exercise and upping fats sometimes (not too often) also can help. They all help the digestion and the GI processes work better.

Here is the link to more information about constipation and possible causes:

http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/fac ... pation.htm

It is quite possible that one of the types of laxative as listed above may cure the constipation. Do not take over the counter laxatives either unless they are specifically mentioned as suitable for Diabetic's, sugar free versions such as Movical.

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