For the immediate - Dulcolax, mentioned earlier, is very strong. Seeing a doctor first, as suggested, is good advice. For preventive measures:

1. Excercise. Bedridden people often suffer from constipation because of a lack of excercise.

2. Keep yourself hydrated. Drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

3. Cut down on salt. Salt promotes constipation.

4. Soft drinks/caffeine promote constipation.

5. Eat more fiber.Cereals, whole grain breads.

Good luck. These lifestyle/diet changes should go a long way in preventing this. But, again, check with a doctor to make sure there isn't another problem that's causing this, and to make sure a strong laxative like Dulcolax is safe for you, as suggested in another post.

-chanteyranger