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Suggest Treatment For Constipation
Question: I have a terrible constipation problem & have to strain every time I have to go.Some advice please.
Brief Answer:
Diet and lifestyle changes.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic.
Initially some changes to your diet and lifestyle may make a difference to your constipation.
Try increasing your daily intake of fibre by eating more fruit, vegetables and cereals. Add a bulking agent such as wheat XXXXXXX to your diet. This will make your stools softer and easier to pass. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and hard stools. Take plenty of exercise. Set aside a time in the day when you have time to spend on the toilet. When you feel the need to go then do not delay.
If these simple measures do not result in improvement you may need to be prescribed a laxative. There are various types bulk-forming, osmotic or stimulant each has it own benefit.
If you have impacted stools then you may need a bisacodyl suppository or an enema.
I hope this is of help. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB. FRCA.
Diet and lifestyle changes.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic.
Initially some changes to your diet and lifestyle may make a difference to your constipation.
Try increasing your daily intake of fibre by eating more fruit, vegetables and cereals. Add a bulking agent such as wheat XXXXXXX to your diet. This will make your stools softer and easier to pass. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and hard stools. Take plenty of exercise. Set aside a time in the day when you have time to spend on the toilet. When you feel the need to go then do not delay.
If these simple measures do not result in improvement you may need to be prescribed a laxative. There are various types bulk-forming, osmotic or stimulant each has it own benefit.
If you have impacted stools then you may need a bisacodyl suppository or an enema.
I hope this is of help. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB. FRCA.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Dr. Kerry Pottinger
Pain Medicine & Palliative Care Specialist
Practicing since :1983
Answered : 1337 Questions
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