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Suggest Ways To Manage Constipation In An Elderly Person That Leads To Right-sided Abdominal Pain
Father who is on hospice had not gone number 2 for ten days then nurse gave him a suppository. He then went a couple times that day. Now he has not gone for another five days and has pain at his right abdomen. They put another suppository today but still has not gone.
Wed, 31 May 2023
Hello,
Constipation in elderly people can be a common problem and can lead to discomfort and even pain, especially if it is accompanied by right-sided abdominal pain. Here are some suggestions for managing constipation in an elderly person with right-sided abdominal pain:
* Increase fluid intake: Encourage the elderly person to drink more fluids, especially water. This can help soften the stool and make it easier to pass.
* Increase fiber intake: Encourage the elderly person to eat foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. This can also help soften the stool and make it easier to pass. Try Fybogel it will help.
* Exercise: Encourage the elderly person to exercise regularly, as physical activity can help stimulate the bowels and promote regular bowel movements.
* Medications: Over-the-counter laxatives or stool softeners may be recommended by a doctor. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
* Bathroom routine: Encourage the elderly person to establish a regular bathroom routine and to respond to the urge to have a bowel movement promptly. Delaying bowel movements can lead to constipation.
* Regular checkups: Make sure the elderly person is receiving regular checkups from a healthcare professional. This can help identify any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the constipation and right-sided abdominal pain.
* Modify the diet: Limit processed and fast food items that are hard to digest.
Remember, if the constipation persists, or if there is severe pain or bleeding, it's important to seek medical attention promptly.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. H. Kay, General & Family Physician
Constipation in elderly people can be a common problem and can lead to discomfort and even pain, especially if it is accompanied by right-sided abdominal pain. Here are some suggestions for managing constipation in an elderly person with right-sided abdominal pain:
* Increase fluid intake: Encourage the elderly person to drink more fluids, especially water. This can help soften the stool and make it easier to pass.
* Increase fiber intake: Encourage the elderly person to eat foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. This can also help soften the stool and make it easier to pass. Try Fybogel it will help.
* Exercise: Encourage the elderly person to exercise regularly, as physical activity can help stimulate the bowels and promote regular bowel movements.
* Medications: Over-the-counter laxatives or stool softeners may be recommended by a doctor. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
* Bathroom routine: Encourage the elderly person to establish a regular bathroom routine and to respond to the urge to have a bowel movement promptly. Delaying bowel movements can lead to constipation.
* Regular checkups: Make sure the elderly person is receiving regular checkups from a healthcare professional. This can help identify any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the constipation and right-sided abdominal pain.
* Modify the diet: Limit processed and fast food items that are hard to digest.
Remember, if the constipation persists, or if there is severe pain or bleeding, it's important to seek medical attention promptly.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. H. Kay, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Hello,
Constipation is a common problem among the elderly population, and I can cause discomfort and pain, including right-sided abdominal pain. Apart giving suppositories, there are some other ways to manage constipation in an elderly person:
1. Increase fluid intake: Encourage the elderly person to drink plenty of fluids, including water, fruit juice, and herbal teas as this can help soften the stool and make it easier to pass.
2. Increase dietary fiber: A diet that is high in fiber can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Encourage the elderly person to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
3. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements and improve digestion. Encourage the elderly person to engage in activities such as walking, swimming or yoga according to their health condition.
4. Take laxatives: In some cases, laxatives may be necessary to help relieve constipation. However, it is important to consult with his doctor prior to giving laxatives to prevent onset of side effects or interactions with other medications.
5. Use stool softeners: Stool softeners can help soften the stool and make it easier to pass. They are especially helpful for elderly persons who have difficulty with bowel movements due to mobility issues or other medical conditions.
If still there is no improvement, should see a gastroenterologist, who might perform a physical examination and recommend other tests after reviewing your father's medical history.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Albana Sejdini, General & Family Physician
Constipation is a common problem among the elderly population, and I can cause discomfort and pain, including right-sided abdominal pain. Apart giving suppositories, there are some other ways to manage constipation in an elderly person:
1. Increase fluid intake: Encourage the elderly person to drink plenty of fluids, including water, fruit juice, and herbal teas as this can help soften the stool and make it easier to pass.
2. Increase dietary fiber: A diet that is high in fiber can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Encourage the elderly person to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
3. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements and improve digestion. Encourage the elderly person to engage in activities such as walking, swimming or yoga according to their health condition.
4. Take laxatives: In some cases, laxatives may be necessary to help relieve constipation. However, it is important to consult with his doctor prior to giving laxatives to prevent onset of side effects or interactions with other medications.
5. Use stool softeners: Stool softeners can help soften the stool and make it easier to pass. They are especially helpful for elderly persons who have difficulty with bowel movements due to mobility issues or other medical conditions.
If still there is no improvement, should see a gastroenterologist, who might perform a physical examination and recommend other tests after reviewing your father's medical history.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Albana Sejdini, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
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