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It has been 3 weeks today that I quit using laxatives (generic brand of Correctol) after many, many years of abusing them. My bowel movements have not improved despite increasing my fiber and water intake and making sure I am getting some exercise. I also have gained @20 lbs in H20 weight. I know everyone is different as far as severity & duration of withdrawal symptoms. Is there anything else I can do to lessen the symptoms? I have seen my doctor and am scheduled to see a gastroenterologist next week. Any hope or help is greatly appreciated!!
I abused them for 30 years and quit cold turkey 2 months ago. I was so swollen that my doctor gave me very small amounts of water pills to decrease the bloating and it helped tremendously. I walk every single day in the morning, so I don't go on a binge. If I walk, then I am less likely to go off track. Start drinking much more water and if you have GERD (acid reflux) which I now have, drink lemon juice or aloe vera juice ($5.00 at Wal-Mart). Try to eat small regular meals and no greasy food or caffeine, which makes it all much worse. I LOVE diet Mountain Dew, but can never buy it now. It's hard, but I only gained 8 pounds.Look in the mirror every morning and say "these horrible pills are NOT GOING TO CONTROL ME AND RUIN MY LIFE!." over  and over. Stomp on them or whatever it takes to let the anger and frustration out - don't hold it in. Get mad at those horrible pills and vow to never let them control you again!!
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Cheryl-

I am one week off laxative abuse and have some of the dame problems as you---20 lbs gain and severe swelling in legs, butt, etc. How long did it take you for the weight to get back to where it was? I am having a very hard time with this:( Any advice would be appreciated!
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Cheryl, I am finding your post in the midst of myself weaning off laxatives. The swelling is so bad I almost can't function. I wanted to reach out to you in hopes that you would write me and let me know how you are doing, since this post was a year ago. I am so scared and nervous and I just want to know it is going to be ok. Thank you so much, I would love an email if you would have the chance, I am just desperate for someone who understands to talk to. Thank you so much -  Sincerely, Kristina


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I just learned my wife has abused laxatives for about 25 years. I didn't know she was bulimic until her kidneys failed this week and she had to have emergency surfers to get a Catheter in her chest to start emergency kidney dialysis. her body went into shock and she almost died a second time the same day. She is in the expensive ICU and has to get dialysis 3 times a week for 5 hours at a time. I now know these little pills are the reason we don't have kids. 

ll this and she's still in denial.

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I have abused this pill for over 40 years I have 2 children 28 and 30 so no it is not the reason you do not have children
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