CONSTIPATION.
The term constipation can have a variety of meanings. Patients may use the term to indicate the lack of an urge to defecate, a decreased frequency of bowel movements, difficulty in passing hard scybalous stools, the feeling of an incomplete evacuation or prolonged straining at toilet. In general, a condition is regarded as constipation when a person encounters fewer than three bowel movements per week while continuing a daily consumption of at least 19 g of fiber.In few cases, the situation may take a more serious turn in the form of fecal impaction or fecolith obstruction. This is an acute condition and needs an urgent attention.
Treating constiption- The daily dietary fiber intake should be increased and bulking agents like Ispaghula [psyllium], methyl cellulose, bran, karaya gum. Lactulose, sorbitol, and lactilol have minimum known side effects and are considered safe in pregnancy and in children and to the elderly patients.
Senna, bisacodyl, sodium picosulphate, and magnesium salts should be used with caution. Low doses of polyethylene glycol and sodium phosphate could be used for intermittent lavage of the bowel.
Drugs like Cisapride, Mosapride, Itiopride, and Docusates can also be used.
Long-term use of Liquid paraffin could lead to reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Spontaneous leak of liquid paraffin from the rectum and soiling has been reported.
For patients with intractable constipation behavioral techniques to modify pelvic floor and intestinal function are now being considered as the mainstay of therapy.
Combination of bowel training, dietary management, and regular exercise are also helpful.
Causes of constipation
Habitual or dietary Senile Drug induced Fecal impaction
Functional disturbances Systemic disease #Neurological conditions Lazy colon