ConstipationConstipation also known as costiveness,a symptom of infrequent hard to pass bowel movements.e term obstipation describes severe constipation which prevents passage of both stool and gas. Causes of constipation include dietary, hormonal, anatomical, as a side effect of medications (e.g., some opiates), and poisoning by heavy metals. Treatments may include changes in dietary habits, laxatives, and enemas.
Prevention
Constipation is usually easier to prevent than to treat. The relief of constipation with osmotic agents, i.e., lactulose, polyethylene glycol, or magnesium salts, should immediately be followed with prevention using increased fiber (fruits, vegetables, and grains) and a nightly decreasing dose of osmotic laxative. With continuing narcotic use doses of osmotic agents may safely be used.
Treatment
The main treatment of constipation involves the increased intake of water, and fiber (either dietary or as supplements).The routine use of laxatives is discouraged, as having a bowel movement may come to be dependent upon their use. Enemas can be used to provide a form of mechanical stimulation. However, enemas are generally useful only for stool in the rectum, not in the intestinal tract.
Laxatives
If laxatives are used milk of magnesia is recommended as a first-line agent due to its low cost and safety. Stimulants should only be used if this is not effective,In cases of chronic constipation prokinetics may be used to improve gastrointestinal motility.
