Constipation is when you have trouble passing your bowel motions (stools), or your motions are not as regular as usual. Some people have a bowel motion every day, while for others it is normal to go, for example, only twice a week. The main symptoms of constipation are straining to pass hard stools, only passing a tiny amount of stools, or consistently feeling as though the bowels have not been fully emptied.
See a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
Constipation can be caused by not eating enough fibre, not drinking enough water, not getting enough exercise, or just by ignoring the urge to go. A change in routine such as international travel or shift work, can upset the body’s ‘internal clock’ and affect the regular bowel routine. Other causes of constipation include feeling stressed, increased hormones related to pregnancy or menstruation, avoiding pain associated with haemorrhoids, or medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. Constipation is more common in the elderly because intestinal muscle contractions reduce with age. Certain medicines such as iron supplements, some antidepressants and high blood pressure medicines, can also cause constipation. Young children can get constipated while learning how to toilet train.
You can help to manage constipation by:
Always inform pharmacy staff if you are taking any other medicines, or if you have any other health conditions, because some over-the-counter medicines may not be suitable for you. Laxatives are medicines that can help you to pass a bowel motion more easily. Laxative products are available as powders, tablets, granules, syrups, enemas or rectal suppositories. Let your pharmacist know if you have a type of product preference. There are different laxative medicines that work in different ways. Your pharmacist will advise you which is the best one for you to use, depending on what is causing the constipation and how severe your constipation is, as well as your age and what other health conditions and other medicines you may be taking.
Health Direct: www.healthdirect.gov.au
Australian Dietary Guidelines: www.eatforhealth.gov.au
Gastroenterological Society of Australia: www.gesa.org.au
Disclaimer: The information provided is a guide only, is current at time of publishing, and is not intended to replace the advice of your pharmacist or doctor.
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