Constipation

Common Causes of Constipation











* Lifestyle* Low fiber diet* Minimal water intake* Poor exercise* Medications* Especially opiates* Endocrine/electrolytes* Hypothyroidism* Hypercalcemia* Bowel obstruction* Delayed colonoscopy* Unintentional weight loss* Previous abdominal surgeries* Rectal problems* Anal fissures* Fecal impaction* Masses











How to Treat Constipation











* Fiber (ex. Metamucil, Citrucel)* Adds structure to the stool* Water (polyethylene glycol/miralax)* Hydrates the stool* Fat (colace)* Softens the stool* Stimulants (Senna)* Increases intestinal activity* Decreases transit time* Suppositories (Glycerine, Dulcolax, Fleet)* Stimulate rectum and cause reflexive bowel movements











Additional Reading











* Constipation Treatment and Management (Medscape)