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Common Causes of Constipation

  • Lifestyle
    • Low fiber diet
    • Minimal water intake
    • Poor exercise
  • Medications
    • Especially opiates
  • Endocrine/electrolytes
    • Hypothyroidism
    • Hypercalcemia
  • Bowel obstruction
    • Delayed colonoscopy
    • Unintentional weight loss
    • Previous abdominal surgeries
  • Rectal problems
    • Anal fissures
    • Fecal impaction
    • Masses

How to Treat Constipation

  • Fiber (ex. Metamucil, Citrucel)
    • Adds structure to the stool
  • Water (polyethylene glycol/miralax)
    • Hydrates the stool
  • Fat (colace)
    • Softens the stool
  • Stimulants (Senna)
    • Increases intestinal activity
    • Decreases transit time
  • Suppositories (Glycerine, Dulcolax, Fleet)
    • Stimulate rectum and cause reflexive bowel movements

Additional Reading