Constipation

Question 1

state some questions which should be asked in Hx for constipation?

Answer 1

♣ How often, how hard, is it painful, has there been a change, normal frequency?

Question 2

state some symptoms of constipation?

Answer 2

♣ Poor appetite, irritable, lack of energy, abdo pain and distension, straining (actively pushing), can present with diarrhoea

Question 3

what is a complication of chronic constipation?

Answer 3

stool can become impacted and cause feacal incontinence as the loose stool runs over the impacted stool

Question 4

state some causes of constipation ?

Answer 4

poor diet 
potty training/ school toilets 
physical intercurrent illness
medication 
FHx

Question 5

state some treatment of constipation ?

Answer 5

education
improve diet
reduce aversive
soften stool

Question 6

what are three options to soften stool?

Answer 6

• Osmotic laxative (lactulose) – sugar isn’t absorbed into intestine so pulls water into the lumen
• Stimulant laxatives (senna)
• Isotonic laxatives (movicol)