Constipation

Complications from Constipation

Constipation occurs when a person’s digestive system, for one reason or another, does not function properly. Referring to instances where bowel movements are difficult or happen less often than normal, almost anyone at any age can be affected by constipation at some point in their life.

Usually not a serious condition, constipation can be painful however learning to identify and understand its symptoms and causes can help a person interpret their body’s messages more clearly to help them find the right type of relief.

Causes

Constipation can be caused by certain diet and lifestyle choices as well as physiological changes and certain medications. Sometimes it is not always easy to anticipate what will cause constipation; and it is not always predictable. Causes of constipation include:

• Changes to diet or level of activity (high fat and refined sugar, low in fiber) • Dehydration • Stress

• Large intake of dairy products • IBS

• Eating Disorders • Change to daily routine • Not using bathroom when having the urge to go • Inactivity/Lack of exercise • Pregnancy - Approximately 40% of pregnant women experience constipation during their pregnancy. More serious causes of constipation include: • Colon cancer

• Neurological conditions such as MS or

Parkinson’s disease

Constipation may also be a side effect of a medicine a person may be taking. Common types of medication that can cause constipation include: • Aluminum antacids (medicine to treat indigestion) • Antidepressants • Antiepileptics (medicine to treat epilepsy) • Antipsychotics (medicine to treat schizophrenia and other mental health conditions) • Calcium supplements • Diuretics (water tablets) • Iron supplements If constipation is caused by medication, the condition usually eases once the medication is stopped being taken. However, a GP should be consulted before stopping any medication.

Symptoms

Each person can experience constipation differently. While constipation symptoms are not the same for everyone, there tend to be some common signs and symptoms such as: • Feeling bloated • Feeling Nauseous • Stomach Aches and Cramps • Loss of appetites • Having painful difficult bowel movements (excessive straining while going) • Having dry, hard stools • Having the feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement

Treatment

There are a variety of over-the-counter treatment options available to relieve constipation. Such as: • Stimulant Tablet (Taken by mouth) • Stimulant Suppository (Inserted rectally) • Stool Softener

• Osmotic

• Bulk-forming • Lubricant

*Laxcitives should not be used for two weeks without informing your GP as laxative overuse can worsen symptoms. More lifestyle orientated treatment suggestions include:

• Drinking two to four extra glasses of water • Trying warm liquids, especially in the morning • Adding fruits and vegetables to your diet • Eating high fibre foods such as bran and prunes Treatment for constipation is effective but it may take a while for a regular bowl pattern to return. If constipation lasts longer than 1 week, or a sudden change in bowel habits is noticed, it is important to consult a doctor. Constipation rarely causes any complications or long-term health problems however in some cases of chronic (long-term) constipation, a patient can be more at risk of experiencing complications such as: • Haemorrhoids - More commonly known as piles haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that form in the lower rectum and anus.

• Faecal impaction - worsens constipation because it makes it harder for stools and waste products to pass out of your anus as the path is obstructed. • Psychological effects - Faecal incontinence can be very upsetting and embarrassing talking openly and honestly about the constipation can help create a better understanding the condition.

Facts and Myths

There are a number of facts and myths surrounding constipation such as: Myth: It’s abnormal if you do not have a bowel movement a day. Fact: Less than 50% of people have one bowel movement a day. Myth: Chronic constipation is recognised as fewer than five or six bowel movements a week.

Fact: 95% of adults have bowel movements between three and 21 times per week. Myth: If bowel movements are infrequent, toxins accumulate in the intestine.

Fact: There is absolutely no scientific evidence that “toxins” accumulate when bowel movements are infrequent. It has not been proven that constipation leads to diseases such as cancer however a case of constipation lasting longer than a week should be referred to a doctor.

Myth: Not being active enough causes constipation Fact: While being inactive can accompany other issues, inactivity alone does not cause constipation. Myth: If you eat well, drink plenty of fluids, and exercise you should never suffer from chronic constipation. Fact: There are various reasons for constipation

WWho: Anyone can be affected

WWhat are the symptoms? Is this a mild or chronic case?

HHow long have they had symptoms? Is this a recent or

ongoing problem?

AAction already taken? Customers may already have purchased laxatives

MMedication: Antacid medications containing calcium or aluminium

can cause constipation, check if the patient is taking those before suggesting anything else

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