Constipation
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Constipation presents with defecation which is problematic because of infrequent stools, difficulty passing stools, or a sensation of incomplete emptying. Further information is available at: cks.nice.org.uk/ topics/constipation.
Constipation may have a serious impact on mental wellbeing and quality of life. 40% of adults report anxiety and 38% experience depression, alongside physical health problems such as haemorrhoids, anal fissures and rectal prolapse (BIG, 2020).
Cause of constipation (other medication):
- opioid pain relievers
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- antihistamines
- tricyclic antidepressants
- urinary incontinence medications
- iron and calcium supplements
- blood pressure medications
- anti-nausea medications.
It’s estimated that around 1 in every 7 adults and up to 1 in every 3 children in the UK has constipation at any one time (BIG).
Constipation can be treated by:
- drinking more water
- eating foods rich in fibre
- doing regular exercise
- practising pelvic floor exercises
- not ignoring the urge to pass stools
- checking the side effects of medications
- discussing any concerns with a health care professional and not stopping medication without seeking advice first (RCN Bladder and bowel learning resource).
Prevention
- Eating a healthy, well balanced diet.
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Increasing activity and exercise levels.
- Having a good toilet routine.
Treatment
Report if the last bowel movement was more than 3 days ago, leaking stool (type 6-7 on stool chart), recurrent bleeding from the rectum, abdomen pain and bloating. Laxatives may be required in certain cases, but individual assessment with clinical history and presentation needs to be reviewed prior to starting.