Constipation/laxatives. Don't want to make a really long post about what my 90-year-old mother (with Gastroparesis, IBS, fructose & lactose intolerant) has tried already, but since the closest she has come to something working right is senna, I would like to just ask about that for right now. Regular OTC dosage 8.6 mg. seems not strong enough, but if she takes two she can end up with severe diarrhea and not able to eat next day. (And she is already down to 85 lbs.) Right now she is staying with me, but eventually will be going back home in another state. She has very poor vision and needs a regimen that she can stick to when she is by herself. Since most instructions say to take at night that is what she has been doing. Just read yesterday that someone with functional dyspepsia took their laxative before their biggest meal of the day. Liquid or tea would be easier to tritrate to an exact amount but would be hard for her to measure or make for herself. She usually has someone with her in the mornings and early afternoon if something had to be measured, but I would prefer to find something that doesn't have to be measured out each time. Would like to find the best form of senna that we can figure out an exact dose that would be good for her (at least most of the time). Has anyone had to try to get a really exact dose? A time that is as good as taking it at night? Gentle form, perhaps meant for children?
But in reading that Gastroparesis causes a slowing of the movement of food through the digestive tract I don't think my idea would help. As a lactose intolerant person, all I have to do to get things moving is have a bowl of pudding, a glass of milk, slice of cheesecake etc.
I hope you have the opportunity to talk with a medical professional about what you could prehaps combine the Senna with to ensure she has daily BMs.
Perhaps a full dose at night and a 1/2 dose in the morning would work? Or combine the Senna with Psyllium.
I understand your concerns and worries. I hope you are able to find a solution that is gentle, but effective for Mum.
Any laxative is going to create different results daily, so much is a factor. How much fluid, fiber, soluble fiber, protien, fat free foods and....
I would have her magnesium levels checked, too low can stove you up.
I'm with everyone else, can she really live by herself in another state with minimal help?
My mom was laxative dependent most of her life and polyethylene glycol 3350 (Miralax and others) was a real game changer for us, it helped to greatly reduce her dependence on stronger laxatives.
And I'll address the elephant hidden in your question, are you really certain she is still capable and/or safe living on her own any more?