WHAT IS CONSTIPATION Constipation is finding it difficult to passing out stool or finding it challenging to poo. is when there is difficulty in cleaning the bowels as the stool becomes hard, dry and unsual larger. going to the toilet less often than usual to empty the bowel. It also refers to when food remains … Continue reading “WHAT IS CONSTIPATION | My Assignment Tutor”
WHAT IS CONSTIPATION Constipation is finding it difficult to passing out stool or finding it challenging to poo. is when there is difficulty in cleaning the bowels as the stool becomes hard, dry and unsual larger. going to the toilet less often than usual to empty the bowel. It also refers to when food remains stays too long in the large intestine, making it difficult to come out as stool or faeces. WHAT CAUSES CONSTIPATION Lack of roughage or inad fibre in diet such as fruits vegetables and cereals.Insufficient fluid intake.Stress, anxiety and depression.Lack of exercising.Side effects of some medications example painkillers like codeine and morphine. Ignoring the natural desire to go to toilet for long time. SYMPTOMS OF CONSTIPATION Feeling BloatingHard or dry stoolPassing less stool than usualStraining when passing stool WHAT CAN BE DONE TO HELP? It is important to drink enough water at least 2 – 3 liters a day to help in digestion and to keep the stool soft. Exercise regularly like taking a walk, running or swimming to help quicken the stool to pass easily. Increase fibre intake by eating more fruits and vegetables at least 5 portions a day as recommended by NHS. Eat whole grains like brown rice and oat, these are high in fibre. It is important to use the toilet when you feel the urge to go without hesitating. Put feet on a footstool and raise kneels slightly above the hip when sitting on the toilet. PROFESSIONALS THAT CAN HELP Speak to a pharmacist who can advise and provide proper medication like Laxatives such as Senna glycoside, Movicol and Lactulose to help empty the bowels more regularly. If situation doesn’t improve visit your GP who will prescribe the right medication and direct, you to a dietitian or send you for screening. The Dietitian can also advise on the right diets. The Bristol Stool Chart is a medical aid designed to classify stool into seven groups. Bladder and Bowel (2020) Constipation Available at: https://www.bladderandbowel.org/bowel/bowel-problems/constipation/ [accessed on: 15/02/21] NICE (2020 Single Technology Appraisal Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/TA318/documents/constipation-chronic-idiopathic-lubiprostone-final-scope2 [accessed on: 01/02/21] Krogh, K., Chiarioni, G. and Whitehead, W., 2017. Management of chronic constipation in adults. United European gastroenterology journal, 5(4), pp.465-472. [accessed on: 22/01/21] For further information go to: https://patient.info/digestive-health/constipation www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Constipation
