What To Do About Constipation

Constipation occurs when bowel movements become difficult or less frequent. Women and the elderly seem to be more prone to this problem. Characteristics of constipation can include straining during a bowel movement, hard stools, or less than three bowel movements per week. Some common causes include poor water intake, poor fiber intake, and traveling. Medical conditions associated with constipation include hypothyroidism, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, depression, stress, pregnancy, and eating disorders. Medications that can cause or worsen constipation include calcium and aluminum containing antacides, strong pain medications, iron pills, some antidepressants, and overuse of laxatives.

Foods rich in fiber such as wheat bran and apples help regulate digestion. Bulk forming laxatives containing psyllium (Metamucil), methylcellulose (Citrucel), wheat dextran (Benefiber), and calcium polycarbophil (FiberCon) work by absorbing water to help thicken the stool. Docusate (Colace) can be used as a stool softener alone or in combination with other laxatives. Stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl (Dulcolax) and senna (Senokot) cause changes to electrolytes in the intestinal area to promote stool release. In cases of severe constipation, a physician should be consulted.




  
  Brought to you by Cheek & Scott Drugs, Inc.
A Community Pharmacy serving North Central Florida.

Live Oak:
386-362-2591
1520 Ohio Ave South; Live Oak, FL 32064

Lake City:
386-754-5377
161 Stonegate Ter; Suite 105; Lake City, FL 32024

Online:
www.CheekAndScott.com


Disclaimer