Constipation

Question 1

Symptoms of Constipation

Answer 1

• small hard stools passed less frequency than normal (less than 3 times a week)
• straining
• incomplete emptying
• abdominal cramps/bloating
• nausea

Question 2

Constipation referrals

Answer 2

• blood in stools (anal fissure, haemorrhoids)
• Medication adverse drug reaction
• Lethargy, weight gain, dry skin (hypothyroidism)
• Stimulant Laxatives abuse (lazy bowel syndrome)
• Obstruction (colic pain)
• constipation for longer than 2 weeks

Question 3

Constipation referrals that can be cancer

Answer 3

• unexplained weight loss / appetite loss
• patients over 40 with sudden change in bowel habit

Question 4

Which medications can cause constipation

Answer 4

• Opioids
• Iron
• TCAs
• SSRIs
• Antimuscarinics
• Diuretics
• Aluminum antacids
• Verapamil
• Antihistamines