Prescribed Treatment For Elderly Constipation
February 27th, 2008 by admin
Constipation is a very common complaint among older persons, constipation may be a symptom of bowel impaction, a more serious condition in which feces are trapped in the lower part of the large intestine. An adult who is constipated may feel bloated, have a headache, swollen abdomen, or pass rock-like feces; or strain, bleed, or feel pain during bowel movements. As with toddlers and small children, the consequences for not treating constipation for the elderly can be very severe. Preventing constipation can be as simple as making sure any medications being taken does not cause constipation. It is also important to remain completely hydrated so stool remains soft and has less problem moving through the gastrointestinal tract. Fiber should be essential to everyone’s diet but it is especially critical in the elderly as it softens stool and helps stool pass through the gastrointestinal tract easier. In addition, it is a good idea to cleanse the colon and gastrointestinal tract every few months to remove any feces that may be stuck to the sides of the intestines, colon, or rectum. Be certain to use a colon cleanser made from all natural products as they are less likely to cause side effects or dehydration like products made from harsh chemicals.