Q I've taken laxatives for over 10 years and now can't go at all without them. Can a state like this still improve?
A A bowel weakened by long dependence can gradually recover with treatment that restores its motility. However, since it takes time, we recommend not stopping the medication all at once but reducing it gradually alongside treatment.
Detailed Answer
Taking stimulant laxatives for a long time makes the bowel accustomed to the drug stimulation, weakening its own ability to move. This is so-called "atonic constipation," creating a vicious cycle where stopping the drug immediately blocks bowel movement. Fortunately, bowel motility can recover again, and the key is not to stop the drug suddenly but to give the bowel time to work on its own again.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Korean medicine treatment focuses on reviving the weakened bowel's peristalsis and building the strength to send stool down smoothly. Once symptoms stabilize, we adjust together so that the existing laxatives are reduced in stages rather than stopped abruptly.
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