Constipation: Introduction
110 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

How is constipation generally defined?

  • Having more than 3 bowel movements per week
  • Having a bowel movement only once a month
  • Having fewer than 3 bowel movements per week that are characterized by straining and the difficult passage of hard, dry stools (correct)
  • Having a constant urge to have a bowel movement

    • What is a characteristic of constipation?

  • Passing loose, watery stools
  • Feeling hungry all the time
  • Having a bowel movement every hour
  • Passing hard, dry stools (correct)

    • What is a primary cause of constipation?

  • Eating too much fiber
  • Having a UTI
  • Inadequate intake of fluids
  • Slower than normal movement of fecal matter through the GI tract (correct)

    • What is a result of the abnormally slow movement of feces through the colon?

    <p>Accumulation in the descending colon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is essential for eliminating stools?

    <p>Intestinal fluids</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can contribute to diet-related constipation?

    <p>A diet that is low in calories, carbohydrates, or fiber</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a consequence of dehydration?

    <p>Constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a effect of dietary fiber on the intestines?

    <p>It dissolves or swells in the intestinal fluid, which increases the bulk of fecal mass and, in turn, aids in stimulating peristalsis and eliminating stools</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a factor that aids in proper bowel function?

    <p>Good abdominal muscle tone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a consequence of ignoring the urge to empty the bowel?

    <p>Degeneration of nerve pathways</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following medications is likely to induce constipation?

    <p>Antacids</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common reason for self-care laxative use?

    <p>Opioid-induced constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a symptom of constipation?

    <p>Anorexia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can help establish a pattern of regular bowel movements?

    <p>Bowel retraining</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a lifestyle characteristic that can contribute to constipation?

    <p>Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a factor that can increase bowel motility?

    <p>Exercise</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of treating constipation?

    <p>To relieve constipation and reestablish normal bowel function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a possible complication of straining to pass hard stool?

    <p>Hemorrhoids</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the definition of chronic constipation?

    <p>Constipation that lasts for several weeks to months</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a non-pharmacological treatment for constipation?

    <p>Adjusting the diet to include foods high in fiber</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can occur if hard stool is packed very tightly in the rectum or intestine?

    <p>Rectal ulcers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can straining to defecate result in?

    <p>Blood pressure surges or cardiac rhythm disturbances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Fecal impaction is a complication of straining to defecate.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Increasing fluid intake is a non-pharmacological treatment for constipation.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Rectal bleeding is a result of hemorrhoids.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The primary goal of treating constipation is to relieve symptoms.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Exercise is not a treatment for constipation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Constipation continuing over several weeks to months is considered acute.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Constipation is usually characterized by having more than 3 bowel movements per week.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Dietary fiber reduces the bulk of fecal mass in the intestines.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    All cases of constipation are caused by secondary factors.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Dehydration can only cause constipation in patients who are already experiencing constipation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A low-calorie diet is not a contributing factor to diet-related constipation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The abnormally slow movement of feces through the colon always results in diarrhea.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Psychological conditions cannot cause constipation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Good abdominal muscle tone can hinder proper bowel function.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    All medical conditions can cause constipation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel can lead to diarrhea.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Exercise decreases muscle tone and promotes constipation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Opiates are a type of medication that can induce constipation.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Antacids, such as calcium and aluminum compounds, can help prevent constipation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Bowel retraining is only necessary for individuals who have had rectal surgery.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Anorexia is a common symptom of constipation.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    All medications listed can induce constipation in some individuals.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of stools in patients experiencing constipation?

    <p>hard, dry</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of the abnormally slow movement of feces through the colon?

    <p>Accumulation in the descending colon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary factor that aids in stimulating peristalsis and eliminating stools?

    <p>Dietary fiber</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common cause of secondary constipation?

    <p>Systemic, neurological, or psychological disorders</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of treating diet-related constipation?

    <p>Increasing fiber and fluid intake</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common characteristic of patients experiencing constipation?

    <p>Feeling as though bowel evacuation is not complete</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common lifestyle characteristic that can contribute to constipation?

    <p>Dehydration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between primary and secondary constipation?

    <p>Primary constipation is often characterized by slower than normal movement of fecal matter or defecatory disorders, while secondary constipation is caused by systemic, neurological, or psychological disorders.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can happen to rectal muscles if the urge to empty the bowel is ignored or suppressed?

    <p>Rectal muscles can lose tonicity and become less effective in eliminating stool.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common consequence of taking multiple medications, particularly those that induce constipation?

    <p>Constipation is a common consequence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of bowel retraining in cases of constipation?

    <p>To establish a pattern of regular bowel movements.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a lifestyle characteristic that can contribute to constipation?

    <p>Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common presenting symptom of constipation, besides decreased frequency or difficulty passing stools?

    <p>Abdominal discomfort or bloating.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of medication is likely to induce constipation, particularly in patients with conditions that can induce constipation?

    <p>Opioid medication.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can occur if the nerve pathways that regulate bowel movements are damaged or degenerated?

    <p>The signal to defecate may stop being sent.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a factor that can increase muscle tone and promote bowel motility?

    <p>Exercise.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the potential complications of straining to pass hard stool?

    <p>Hemorrhoids, anal fissures with rectal bleeding, or rectal prolapse. Fecal impaction or rectal ulcers may also occur if hard stool is packed very tightly in the rectum or intestine.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the three primary goals of treating constipation?

    <p>Relieve constipation and reestablish normal bowel function, establish dietary and exercise habits that aid in preventing recurrences, and promote the safe and effective use of laxative products.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential consequence of straining to defecate?

    <p>Blood pressure surges or cardiac rhythm disturbances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a non-pharmacological treatment for constipation that can provide immediate relief?

    <p>Lifestyle modifications, such as adjusting the diet to include foods high in fiber, increasing fluid intake, and engaging in exercise.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential consequence of ignoring the urge to empty the bowel?

    <p>Constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the definition of chronic constipation?

    <p>Constipation continuing over several weeks to months.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Constipation is a common gastrointestinal (GI) ______.

    <p>complaint</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Patients may describe constipation as ______ to have a bowel movement.

    <p>straining</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Constipation usually results from the abnormally slow movement of feces through the ______.

    <p>colon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Dietary fiber dissolves or swells in the ______ fluid, which increases the bulk of fecal mass.

    <p>intestinal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A diet that is low in ______, carbohydrates, or fiber may contribute to diet-related constipation.

    <p>calories</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Inadequate intake of ______ may also promote constipation in patients who are dehydrated.

    <p>fluids</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Primary constipation is often characterized by ______ than normal movement of fecal matter through the GI tract.

    <p>slower</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Secondary causes of constipation include systemic, neurological, or ______ disorders.

    <p>psychological</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Gravity and good ___________ muscle tone also aid in proper bowel function.

    <p>abdominal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Exercise increases muscle tone and promotes ___________ motility.

    <p>bowel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel can eventually lead to ___________.

    <p>constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Nerve pathways may degenerate and stop sending the signal to ___________.

    <p>defecate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Opioid induced ___________ is a common reason for self care laxative use.

    <p>constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Anorexia, dull headache, lassitude, low back pain, abdominal discomfort, bloating, flatulence, and ___________ distress are symptoms of constipation.

    <p>psychosocial</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Bowel retraining often is necessary to establish a pattern of regular ___________ movements.

    <p>bowel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Calcium supplements, such as calcium carbonate, can contribute to ___________.

    <p>constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Constipation continuing over several weeks to months is considered to be ______ and may require more sustained and aggressive therapy directed by a health care provider.

    <p>chronic</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Straining to pass hard stool can lead to ______, anal fissures with rectal bleeding, or rectal prolapse.

    <p>hemorrhoids</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The primary goals of treatment are to ______ constipation and reestablish normal bowel function.

    <p>relieve</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Adjusting the diet to include foods high in ______, increasing fluid intake, and engaging in some form of exercise are lifestyle modifications.

    <p>fiber</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Straining to defecate may result in ______ pressure surges or cardiac rhythm disturbances.

    <p>blood</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If hard stool is packed very tightly in the rectum or intestine, ______ impaction or rectal ulcers may occur.

    <p>fecal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the characteristics of constipation with their descriptions:

    <p>Straining to have a bowel movement = Difficulty in passing stools Passing hard, dry stools = Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation Passing small stools = Decreased stool frequency Feeling as though bowel evacuation is not complete = Small stools or decreased stool frequency</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the causes of constipation with their types:

    <p>Slower than normal movement of fecal matter = Primary cause Defecatory disorders = Primary cause Systemic, neurological, or psychological disorders = Secondary cause Structural abnormalities = Secondary cause</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the dietary factors with their effects on constipation:

    <p>Low fiber intake = Contributes to constipation Low calorie intake = Contributes to constipation Inadequate fluid intake = Promotes constipation Dietary fiber intake = Aids in eliminating stools</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the consequences of constipation with their descriptions:

    <p>Accumulation in the descending colon = Result of slow movement of feces Straining to pass hard stool = Possible complication Fecal impaction = Complication of straining to defecate Dehydration = Contributes to constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the effects of various factors on bowel function:

    <p>Dietary fiber = Increases bulk of fecal mass Exercise = Increases bowel motility Good abdominal muscle tone = Aids in proper bowel function Dehydration = Hinders bowel function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the characteristics of patients with constipation:

    <p>Menopause = Psychological condition Pelvic floor dysfunction = Defecatory disorder Rectal prolapse = Structural abnormality Dehydration = Lifestyle characteristic</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the effects of various factors on stool characteristics:

    <p>Dietary fiber = Increases bulk of fecal mass Dehydration = Makes stools hard and dry Low fiber intake = Makes stools small and dry Inadequate fluid intake = Makes stools hard and dry</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the causes of secondary constipation:

    <p>Systemic disorders = Example of secondary cause Neurological disorders = Example of secondary cause Psychological disorders = Example of secondary cause Structural abnormalities = Example of secondary cause</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following medications with their potential effect on bowel function:

    <p>Antacids = May induce constipation Opiates = May induce constipation Gastrointestinal antispasmodics = May induce constipation Benzodiazepines = May induce constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following lifestyle characteristics with their potential effect on bowel function:

    <p>Exercise = Increases muscle tone and promotes bowel motility Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel = Can lead to constipation Gravity = Aids in proper bowel function Good abdominal muscle tone = Aids in proper bowel function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following symptoms with their potential relationship to constipation:

    <p>Anorexia = May be a symptom of constipation Low back pain = May be a symptom of constipation Abdominal discomfort = May be a symptom of constipation Dull headache = May be a symptom of constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following medications with their potential effect on bowel function:

    <p>Anticholinergics = May induce constipation Antihistamines = May induce constipation Antimuscarinics = May induce constipation Antidepressants = May induce constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following medications with their potential effect on bowel function:

    <p>Calcium supplements = May induce constipation Diuretics = May induce constipation Clonidine = May induce constipation Benzodiazepines = May induce constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following lifestyle characteristics with their potential effect on bowel function:

    <p>Regular bowel movements = May be achieved through bowel retraining Ignoring the urge to empty the bowel = Can lead to constipation Exercise = Increases muscle tone and promotes bowel motility Good abdominal muscle tone = Aids in proper bowel function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following symptoms with their potential relationship to constipation:

    <p>Bloating = May be a symptom of constipation Flatulence = May be a symptom of constipation Psychosocial distress = May be a symptom of constipation Lassitude = May be a symptom of constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following medications with their potential effect on bowel function:

    <p>Hematinics = May induce constipation Barium sulfate = May induce constipation Polystyrene sodium sulfonate = May induce constipation Sucralfate = May induce constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following complications of constipation with their descriptions:

    <p>Hemorrhoids = Straining to pass hard stool can lead to this complication. Fecal impaction = Hard stool is packed very tightly in the rectum or intestine. Rectal ulcers = Hard stool is packed very tightly in the rectum or intestine. Anal fissures = Straining to pass hard stool can lead to this complication.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following non-pharmacological treatments for constipation with their descriptions:

    <p>Increasing fluid intake = Engaging in this can help establish a pattern of regular bowel movements. Exercise = This can promote the safe and effective use of laxative products. Dietary fiber = This can help reestablish normal bowel function. Lifestyle modifications = This can provide more immediate relief for constipation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following goals of treating constipation with their descriptions:

    <p>Relieve constipation = This primary goal is to reestablish normal bowel function. Establish dietary habits = This primary goal is to aid in preventing recurrences of constipation. Promote laxative products = This primary goal is to ensure safe and effective use.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following consequences of constipation with their descriptions:

    <p>Blood pressure surges = Straining to defecate can result in this consequence. Rectal bleeding = This consequence can occur if hard stool is packed very tightly in the rectum or intestine. Anal fissures = Straining to pass hard stool can lead to this consequence. Cardiac rhythm disturbances = Straining to defecate can result in this consequence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following characteristics of constipation with their descriptions:

    <p>Chronic constipation = Constipation continuing over several weeks to months is considered this. Acute constipation = Constipation continuing over several weeks to months is not considered this. Diet-related constipation = This type of constipation can be treated with dietary fiber.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following consequences of straining to defecate with their descriptions:

    <p>Hemorrhoids = Straining to pass hard stool can lead to this consequence. Anal fissures = Straining to pass hard stool can lead to this consequence. Rectal prolapse = Straining to pass hard stool can lead to this consequence. Fecal impaction = Hard stool is packed very tightly in the rectum or intestine, leading to this consequence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Constipation: Introduction

    • Constipation is a common gastrointestinal (GI) complaint characterized by having fewer than 3 bowel movements per week with straining and passing hard, dry stools.
    • Patients may experience straining, passing small stools, feeling incomplete bowel evacuation, or decreased stool frequency.

    Etiology

    • Causes of constipation include medical conditions, medications, psychological and physiologic conditions, and lifestyle characteristics.
    • Primary constipation can be characterized by slower than normal movement of fecal matter through the GI tract or defecatory disorders.
    • Secondary causes include systemic, neurological, or psychological disorders, and structural abnormalities that result in obstruction.
    • A diet low in calories, carbohydrates, or fiber can contribute to constipation.
    • Inadequate fluid intake can also promote constipation in patients who are dehydrated.

    Lifestyle Characteristics

    • Gravity and good abdominal muscle tone aid in proper bowel function.
    • Exercise increases muscle tone and promotes bowel motility.
    • Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel can lead to constipation and may require bowel retraining.

    Medications and Constipation

    • Medications can contribute to constipation, especially in patients taking multiple medications and those with conditions that can induce constipation.
    • Selected drugs that may induce constipation include analgesics, antacids, anticholinergics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and others.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • Decreased frequency or difficulty passing stools, accompanied by other symptoms such as anorexia, dull headache, lassitude, low back pain, abdominal discomfort, bloating, flatulence, and psychosocial distress.
    • Chronic constipation continuing over several weeks to months may require more sustained and aggressive therapy.

    Complications

    • Straining to pass hard stool can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal bleeding, or rectal prolapse.
    • Fecal impaction or rectal ulcers may occur if hard stool is packed tightly in the rectum or intestine.
    • Straining to defecate may result in blood pressure surges or cardiac rhythm disturbances.

    Treatment of Constipation

    • The primary goals of treatment are to relieve constipation, reestablish normal bowel function, and establish dietary and exercise habits that aid in preventing recurrences.
    • Treatment approaches include non-pharmacological methods such as adjusting the diet to include foods high in fiber, increasing fluid intake, and engaging in exercise.

    Constipation: Introduction

    • Constipation is a common gastrointestinal (GI) complaint characterized by having fewer than 3 bowel movements per week with straining and passing hard, dry stools.
    • Patients may experience straining, passing small stools, feeling incomplete bowel evacuation, or decreased stool frequency.

    Etiology

    • Causes of constipation include medical conditions, medications, psychological and physiologic conditions, and lifestyle characteristics.
    • Primary constipation can be characterized by slower than normal movement of fecal matter through the GI tract or defecatory disorders.
    • Secondary causes include systemic, neurological, or psychological disorders, and structural abnormalities that result in obstruction.
    • A diet low in calories, carbohydrates, or fiber can contribute to constipation.
    • Inadequate fluid intake can also promote constipation in patients who are dehydrated.

    Lifestyle Characteristics

    • Gravity and good abdominal muscle tone aid in proper bowel function.
    • Exercise increases muscle tone and promotes bowel motility.
    • Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel can lead to constipation and may require bowel retraining.

    Medications and Constipation

    • Medications can contribute to constipation, especially in patients taking multiple medications and those with conditions that can induce constipation.
    • Selected drugs that may induce constipation include analgesics, antacids, anticholinergics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and others.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • Decreased frequency or difficulty passing stools, accompanied by other symptoms such as anorexia, dull headache, lassitude, low back pain, abdominal discomfort, bloating, flatulence, and psychosocial distress.
    • Chronic constipation continuing over several weeks to months may require more sustained and aggressive therapy.

    Complications

    • Straining to pass hard stool can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal bleeding, or rectal prolapse.
    • Fecal impaction or rectal ulcers may occur if hard stool is packed tightly in the rectum or intestine.
    • Straining to defecate may result in blood pressure surges or cardiac rhythm disturbances.

    Treatment of Constipation

    • The primary goals of treatment are to relieve constipation, reestablish normal bowel function, and establish dietary and exercise habits that aid in preventing recurrences.
    • Treatment approaches include non-pharmacological methods such as adjusting the diet to include foods high in fiber, increasing fluid intake, and engaging in exercise.

    Constipation: Introduction

    • Constipation is a common gastrointestinal (GI) complaint characterized by having fewer than 3 bowel movements per week with straining and passing hard, dry stools.
    • Patients may experience straining, passing small stools, feeling incomplete bowel evacuation, or decreased stool frequency.

    Etiology

    • Causes of constipation include medical conditions, medications, psychological and physiologic conditions, and lifestyle characteristics.
    • Primary constipation can be characterized by slower than normal movement of fecal matter through the GI tract or defecatory disorders.
    • Secondary causes include systemic, neurological, or psychological disorders, and structural abnormalities that result in obstruction.
    • A diet low in calories, carbohydrates, or fiber can contribute to constipation.
    • Inadequate fluid intake can also promote constipation in patients who are dehydrated.

    Lifestyle Characteristics

    • Gravity and good abdominal muscle tone aid in proper bowel function.
    • Exercise increases muscle tone and promotes bowel motility.
    • Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel can lead to constipation and may require bowel retraining.

    Medications and Constipation

    • Medications can contribute to constipation, especially in patients taking multiple medications and those with conditions that can induce constipation.
    • Selected drugs that may induce constipation include analgesics, antacids, anticholinergics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and others.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • Decreased frequency or difficulty passing stools, accompanied by other symptoms such as anorexia, dull headache, lassitude, low back pain, abdominal discomfort, bloating, flatulence, and psychosocial distress.
    • Chronic constipation continuing over several weeks to months may require more sustained and aggressive therapy.

    Complications

    • Straining to pass hard stool can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal bleeding, or rectal prolapse.
    • Fecal impaction or rectal ulcers may occur if hard stool is packed tightly in the rectum or intestine.
    • Straining to defecate may result in blood pressure surges or cardiac rhythm disturbances.

    Treatment of Constipation

    • The primary goals of treatment are to relieve constipation, reestablish normal bowel function, and establish dietary and exercise habits that aid in preventing recurrences.
    • Treatment approaches include non-pharmacological methods such as adjusting the diet to include foods high in fiber, increasing fluid intake, and engaging in exercise.

    Constipation: Introduction

    • Constipation is a common gastrointestinal (GI) complaint characterized by having fewer than 3 bowel movements per week with straining and passing hard, dry stools.
    • Patients may experience straining, passing small stools, feeling incomplete bowel evacuation, or decreased stool frequency.

    Etiology

    • Causes of constipation include medical conditions, medications, psychological and physiologic conditions, and lifestyle characteristics.
    • Primary constipation can be characterized by slower than normal movement of fecal matter through the GI tract or defecatory disorders.
    • Secondary causes include systemic, neurological, or psychological disorders, and structural abnormalities that result in obstruction.
    • A diet low in calories, carbohydrates, or fiber can contribute to constipation.
    • Inadequate fluid intake can also promote constipation in patients who are dehydrated.

    Lifestyle Characteristics

    • Gravity and good abdominal muscle tone aid in proper bowel function.
    • Exercise increases muscle tone and promotes bowel motility.
    • Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel can lead to constipation and may require bowel retraining.

    Medications and Constipation

    • Medications can contribute to constipation, especially in patients taking multiple medications and those with conditions that can induce constipation.
    • Selected drugs that may induce constipation include analgesics, antacids, anticholinergics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and others.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • Decreased frequency or difficulty passing stools, accompanied by other symptoms such as anorexia, dull headache, lassitude, low back pain, abdominal discomfort, bloating, flatulence, and psychosocial distress.
    • Chronic constipation continuing over several weeks to months may require more sustained and aggressive therapy.

    Complications

    • Straining to pass hard stool can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal bleeding, or rectal prolapse.
    • Fecal impaction or rectal ulcers may occur if hard stool is packed tightly in the rectum or intestine.
    • Straining to defecate may result in blood pressure surges or cardiac rhythm disturbances.

    Treatment of Constipation

    • The primary goals of treatment are to relieve constipation, reestablish normal bowel function, and establish dietary and exercise habits that aid in preventing recurrences.
    • Treatment approaches include non-pharmacological methods such as adjusting the diet to include foods high in fiber, increasing fluid intake, and engaging in exercise.

    Constipation: Introduction

    • Constipation is a common gastrointestinal (GI) complaint characterized by having fewer than 3 bowel movements per week with straining and passing hard, dry stools.
    • Patients may experience straining, passing small stools, feeling incomplete bowel evacuation, or decreased stool frequency.

    Etiology

    • Causes of constipation include medical conditions, medications, psychological and physiologic conditions, and lifestyle characteristics.
    • Primary constipation can be characterized by slower than normal movement of fecal matter through the GI tract or defecatory disorders.
    • Secondary causes include systemic, neurological, or psychological disorders, and structural abnormalities that result in obstruction.
    • A diet low in calories, carbohydrates, or fiber can contribute to constipation.
    • Inadequate fluid intake can also promote constipation in patients who are dehydrated.

    Lifestyle Characteristics

    • Gravity and good abdominal muscle tone aid in proper bowel function.
    • Exercise increases muscle tone and promotes bowel motility.
    • Avoiding the urge to empty the bowel can lead to constipation and may require bowel retraining.

    Medications and Constipation

    • Medications can contribute to constipation, especially in patients taking multiple medications and those with conditions that can induce constipation.
    • Selected drugs that may induce constipation include analgesics, antacids, anticholinergics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and others.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • Decreased frequency or difficulty passing stools, accompanied by other symptoms such as anorexia, dull headache, lassitude, low back pain, abdominal discomfort, bloating, flatulence, and psychosocial distress.
    • Chronic constipation continuing over several weeks to months may require more sustained and aggressive therapy.

    Complications

    • Straining to pass hard stool can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal bleeding, or rectal prolapse.
    • Fecal impaction or rectal ulcers may occur if hard stool is packed tightly in the rectum or intestine.
    • Straining to defecate may result in blood pressure surges or cardiac rhythm disturbances.

    Treatment of Constipation

    • The primary goals of treatment are to relieve constipation, reestablish normal bowel function, and establish dietary and exercise habits that aid in preventing recurrences.
    • Treatment approaches include non-pharmacological methods such as adjusting the diet to include foods high in fiber, increasing fluid intake, and engaging in exercise.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Constipation PDF

    Description

    Constipation is a common gastrointestinal complaint characterized by fewer than 3 bowel movements per week, straining and the difficult passage of hard, dry stools.

    More Like This

    Management of Constipation: Physical Purgatives I
    17 questions

    Management of Constipation: Physical Purgatives I

    EnviousHeisenberg avatar
    EnviousHeisenberg
    Diarrhea and Constipation Overview
    5 questions

    Diarrhea and Constipation Overview

    EffectualAsteroid avatar
    EffectualAsteroid
    Estreñimiento y Anatomía Digestiva
    5 questions

    Estreñimiento y Anatomía Digestiva

    ReasonablePeridot701 avatar
    ReasonablePeridot701
    Self-Care for Constipation
    33 questions

    Self-Care for Constipation

    ProperNoseFlute avatar
    ProperNoseFlute
    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Open
    Browser
    Browser