Geriatrician Questions Constipation

Can we try home remedies for my father's constipation problem?

My father is 78 years old and has been severely constipated since yesterday. Can I give some home remedies like triphala or husk?

2 Answers

You can try prune juice
I would be cautious. Is this “constipation” a new problem or something chronic? Any new meds or other changes to his routine? People define constipation differently, so it may be something to discuss with his doctor. I usually advise starting with stewed or dried prunes or prune juice or similar, and of course ensuring plenty of fluids and activity/exercise as tolerated.

Michele Haber, MD