Bowel retraining is generally performed until symptoms improve. It helps to establish a lifelong pattern of bowel regulation and care. The person is free to go back to their normal routine, setting aside time for daily bowel care.
A person must speak with his or her healthcare professional before following these guidelines. Some people may need to omit certain portions of these guidelines. For instance, a person with congestive heart failure or chronic renal failure may not be able to drink 2 quarts of fluid a day because they can get overloaded. Medications used to move the bowels, such as suppositories, may cause diarrhea and salt imbalances in the body.