Parkinson’s News Community Forums Using Our Forums Parkinson’s and constipation

  • Parkinson’s and constipation

    Posted by Community Member on April 3, 2026 at 12:46 pm

    I have had Parkinson’s for 5 years and am 77 years old. In the last few months I am having problems with constipation. I have tried Miralax and some fiber supplements such as Metamucil and Citrucel without a lot of relief. Usually after a few days I have to use a laxative. Would like to hear what others are doing to get relief. Thanks.

    Community Member replied 3 weeks, 2 days ago 4 Members · 7 Replies
  • 7 Replies
  • Community Member

    Member
    April 4, 2026 at 12:03 pm

    Sure would appreciate some responses. Bug

    • Community Member

      Administrator
      April 7, 2026 at 3:00 pm

      Hi Bug, constipation is such a common and frustrating part of living with Parkinson’s. It sounds like you’ve already tried several of the go-to approaches, and needing to rely on laxatives every few days can be tough to manage. Have you noticed if things like hydration, timing of meals, physical activity, or medication changes make any difference for you, or has it felt fairly consistent regardless of what you try?

    • Community Member

      Administrator
      April 8, 2026 at 9:13 am

      Hi Bug! I hope you’re well. This sounds like such a frustrating problem to navigate. My dad has Parkinson’s, and I don’t think he experiences this particular issue very often. But I know he likes to keep prune juice on hand when he does have a bit of trouble. Have you been able to find any helpful answers from your medical provider?

  • Community Member

    Member
    April 12, 2026 at 2:18 pm

    Thanks for the replies. I have talked to my Doctor about the constipation but no real relief. I take Miralax every night which seems to help but it is a continuing problem. I drink plenty of water, prune juice and lots of fiber. Currently I am only on Carbodopa 25-250 mg. four times a day and 25-100 ER one at night. I do have A-Fib and take some meds for that which is known to cause constipation also. Guess it is just something I have to live with. Thanks for the replies.

  • Community Member

    Member
    April 12, 2026 at 2:23 pm

    Also, I exercise daily. Do Big and Loud exercises, walk any where from 2.5 to 4 miles a day and do some light weights in the gym. I think exercise activity helps but so far still have to deal with it. Thanks again for the replies. Going to see my GI Doctor this week. Maybe he can help.

    • Community Member

      Administrator
      April 16, 2026 at 1:30 pm

      How frustrating to be doing so many things to manage this symptom only to continue struggling with it. I’m sorry that you’ve been dealing with this, Bug.

  • Community Member

    Member
    April 25, 2026 at 2:32 pm

    I find eating at least 1 apple a day helps me stay somewhat regular. .

Log in to reply.