Definition
Constipation is the reduction in frequency and volume of the stool or motions.
Constipation is so common in the western population that it can hardly be considered a disease at all– one in seven of us suffered last year1. However the condition remains a ‘taboo’ subject for many - something we would rather not talk about and hope will just go away.
Causes / Prevention
Constipation is commoner in the elderly, during pregnancy, in patients with an under active thyroid or with too much calcium in the bloodstream. It can occur in depression, immobility and following many drugs including morphine, codeine, iron tablets and some antidepressants. Many analgesics such as Co-codamol or Co-dydramol contain codeine or other opiates and can cause constipation in some people. Diet is important and a low fibre diet will cause constipation.
Signs and Symptoms
Generally speaking a ‘normal’ stool should be soft, large and movement can be anything from three times a day to three times a week. It is important to know what is ‘normal’ for you.
If you can identify yourself with suffering from one of the symptoms below then you may be constipated. As with all illnesses if you are unsure of your symptoms then you should visit your GP or pharmacist.
Symptoms of constipation
- Irregular or infrequent bowel movement
- Hard and dry stools
- Pain associated with bowel movements
- A feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowel
- Ineffective straining when you are on the toilet
- Little or no urge to go to the toilet
- Abdominal bloating and / or pain
Possible complications
Although rare constipation can be associated with the following side effects:
Constipation can predispose to haemorrhoids or piles, anal fissures (a crack in the anus which causes pain on passing a stool and occasionally rectal bleeding), faecal impaction, where the stool is so firmly wedged that overflowing contents of a liquidy stool occurs, and, rarely, rectal prolapse where excessive straining is a problem. Constipation probably contributes to diverticular disease.
Treatment
Although rarely serious, there are some simple things you can do to help relieve the discomfort. These top tips, from Dulco-lax, have been known to help provide relief:
- Increase your fibre intake - eat lots of fresh vegetables, fruit, pulses, wholemeal bread and rice
- Try to drink at least one and half litres of water a day
- Don’t ignore the call of nature – it can trigger constipation
- Keep active – take regular exercise
- Take time out to relax and unwind, stress can be contributing factor
- Try a gentle laxative to relieve constipation and help your body restart its natural rhythm
Laxatives
If you still find you need a little extra help, why not visit your local pharmacy and ask about laxatives. Sometimes stimulant laxatives may be used to help you regain your natural rhythm. Gentle laxatives like, Dulco-lax, can help stimulate the bowel, making it easier and less painful to go to the toilet
Written by Medpages Editorial Team
Last Editorial Review:20/1/2010
