signs and symptoms of constipation
anorexia, dull headache, low back pain, abdominal discomfort, bloating, and flatulence
primary cause of constipation
inadequate dietary fiber, fluid intake, and/or exercise
structural conditions causing constipation
anal fissure and pregnancy
systemic conditions that cause constipation
psychological conditions that cause constipation
depression, eating disorders, stress, changes in routine
medications that can cause constipation
anticholinergics, TCA, benzodiazepines, cholestyramine, calcium, and iron supplements
exclusions for constipation
non pharm therapy
gradually increase high-fiber food, increase fluid intake, exercise regularly
increase these foods for a high-fiber diet
fruits, vegetables, whole grains
decrease these foods for a high-fiber diet
meat, chest, processed foods
fiber intake for women
25 grams
fiber intake for males
38 grams
examples of bulk forming agents (fiber supplements)
methylcellulose, polycarbophil, and psyllium
onset of fiber supplements
12-72 hours
ADE of fiber supplements
abdominal discomfort and flatulence
fiber supplement precautions
swallowing difficulties, GI ulcer, high calcium content in polycarbophil, sugar content in some formulations
first choice for pregnant women
fiber supplements
MOA fiber supplements
dissolves and swells in intestines and adds bulk and water to stool
examples of emollient agents (stool softeners)
docusate
MOA of stool softeners
onset of stool softeners
12-72 hours
ade for stool softeners
minimal
precautions of stool softeners
larger than recommended doses can lead to sweating, muscle cramps, and irregular heartbeat.
contraindications with stool softeners
mineral oil`