Constipation - A Quick Read

Back to Quick Reads

Having fewer bowel movements than before?

Straining to pass hard or small stools recently?

What is constipation?

• bowel movements are infrequent and irregular.

• hard stool difficult to pass

Signs and Symptoms

• fewer bowel movements than usual.

• stool is hard and small and causes strain to pass.

• feeling remains of the stool even after passing.

• bloating and nausea

• stomach ache and cramps

• loss of appetite

Causes:

• dietery changes

• activity changes or lack of activity

• lifestyle changes

• not relieving when bowel movement urges are felt.

• stress factors

• medication side effects

• dehydrated

• pregnancy

• aging

• laxative abuse

Affected and risk groups

• patients on antacids or calcium or aluminum medications

• digestive disorder patients

• sedantary lifestyle

• People with eating disorders

Treatment

• Fibre supplements like Fybogel

• Stimulant Laxatives like Bisacodyl

• Stool softeners like Coloxyl

• Osmotic laxatives like sorbitol

Prevention

• Dietery changes to introduce more well balanced diet

• Keep moderate levels of hydration

• Keep moderate levels of activity on a daily basis

Lifestyle Adaptations

• increase water intake unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

• increase fibre and fruits in the diet

• incorporate more exercise in the daily routine

• empty the bowel when feel the urge to.

• reduce caffeine intake

• reduce milk intake

Complications and urgent medical advice when:

• blood in stool

• severe pain with bowel activity

• constipated for more than one week

• the stool appearance has changed

All these and more are available at Health First pharmacy...visit us for all your health needs first...talk to us first!!!