Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints. In general, constipation is when someone goes to the toilet less often than usual, or find it difficult to pass a stool.
Causes
In older people, the bowel muscles become weaker, their appetite decreases and some people may take medicines that affect the bowels. This is why elderly people are also prone to constipation.
It is fairly common for children to suffer from constipation but it usually clears up within a few days.
Always consult your GP if symptoms are persistent and/or severe.
Constipation is often experienced by people when they are travelling or on holiday. This is because their normal routine is interrupted and the biological clock is disrupted. Unfamiliar surroundings, different toilets and change of diet are all contributing factors.
Symptoms
Sometimes straining may be ineffective and no motion is passed. Bloating, nausea, even vomiting may occur. Straining may cause piles and rectal bleeding.
Chronic (long-term) constipation can lead to a number of problems. Always consult your GP if you suffer from the following:
- Blood in the stools.
- Excessive tiredness and lethargy.
- Unintentional weight loss.
Treatment
If these approaches fail, taking a laxative to stimulate the bowel muscles may be of benefit. These should only be used as a temporary measure. Talk to your pharmacist about any medication you are taking to find out if it may be causing constipation.
Laxatives work in one of four ways:
- Bulk laxatives (such as bran, sterculia) provide fibre in a concentrated form. They increase weight and volume of the stools whilst they are in your intestines, thus stimulating your bowels to
move faster. They have to be taken with plenty of water and it can take several days before they have any effect. They are the most approrpriate type of laxative for long term use. - Stimulant laxatives (such as senna and bisacodyl) work by increasing contractions of the bowel and can cause tummy cramps. They can work within a matter of hours and are usually taken
at night to produce a morning bowel action. This type of laxative is inadvisable for long term use and should not be used in children. - Osmotic laxatives work by retaining fluid in the bowel, which then softens the faeces. They can
take two to three days to work. - Faecal softeners such as docusate sodium lubricate and soften the stool, making them easier to
pass and can act within a day.
Children should not be given laxatives without first consulting your GP or pharmacist. You should never take laxatives on a regular basis unless advised to do so by your GP.
Constipation can rarely be a sign of a more serious disease, if you are in any doubt consult your GP.
Prevention
- Eat plenty of fibre such as bran, wholemeal bread, fruit and vegetables.
- Have a regular routine in the morning and allow your bowels time to work.
- Reduce your intake of processed food.
- Drink more water and avoid caffeine, alcohol and fizzy drinks.
- Keep active by exercising regularly.
- When travelling, consider taking bran supplements, drink bottled water and avoid sitting still
for too long.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website does not replace medical advice.
If you want to find out more, or are worried about any medical issue or symptoms that you may be experiencing, please contact our pharmacist or see your doctor.