Constipation Remedies. This video is on relief, remedies, symptoms, laxatives, cure, medicines and tablets to get rid of constipation.

1 in 7 adults are affected by constipation at any one time. Remember we’re all different so we have different toilet habits but generally speaking constipation is either going to the toilet less often than usually to empty the bowels or passing hard or painful stools. In this video we’re going to look at home remedies and laxatives for constipation relief in adults. Hope my tips help!

CAUSES OF CONSTIPATION:
Constipation in adults has many possible causes. Sometimes there is no obvious reason.

The most common causes include:

• Not eating enough fibre – such as fruit, vegetables and cereals
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not exercising or being less active
• Often ignoring the urge to go to the toilet
• Changing your diet or daily routine
• Stress, anxiety or depression
• A side effect of medication

Constipation is also common during pregnancy and for 6 weeks after giving birth. PLEASE NOTE: Laxatives are not recommended in pregnancy unless prescribed or recommended by your healthcare professional.

In much rarer cases, constipation may be caused by a medical condition.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES TO TREAT CONSTIPATION:
• A really easy way to help reduce straining when empty your bowels is by raising your feet by resting them on a stool while your sat on the toilet and if possible raise your knees above your hips. This straightens out where the colon and rectum join and allows your stool to pass more easily. Also give yourself plenty of time and don’t delay if you feel the urge.

• Make your stools softer and easier to pass by, drinking plenty of water so aim for 6-8 glasses a day and increasing the fibre in your diet so have more fruit, vegetables and oats. NHS Link to increasing fibre in diet: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/how-to-get-more-fibre-into-your-diet

• Increase your activity so go for a walk do more exercise and this will lower the time it takes food to move through the large intestine. So you’ll empty your bowels more regularly. The longer your stools stay in the large intestine the more water is absorbed from the stool which leaves you with dry stools that are harder to pass.

LAXATIVES TO TREAT CONSTIPATION:
Laxatives are a type of medicine that can help you empty your bowels if you’re having trouble going to the toilet.

They’re widely used to treat constipation if lifestyle changes haven’t helped. It’s important to remember that laxatives should be stopped when your constipation improves.

Laxatives are available from pharmacies. Please speak to your pharmacist before purchasing so they can check its the right one for you and you’re suitable and safe to take them. As always with all medication always read the information leaflet. Certain medication can also cause constipation so let your pharmacist know what you’re taking.

Laxatives should only be used for a short period and are not recommended for children and in pregnancy unless prescribed, here are the different laxatives discussed in the video.

Bulk forming laxatives: Such as ispaghula husk.

Osmotic laxatives: Such as lactulose and macrogol.

Stimulant laxatives: Such as bisacodyl, senna and sodium picosulfate.

Stool softener laxatives: Such as docusate sodium and glycerol.

WHEN TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR:
• You are not improving with treatment
• You are regularly constipated and it lasts a long time
• You are bloated and it lasts a long time
• You have blood in your poo
• You have unexpectedly lost weight
• You feel very tired all the time

Speak to the GP before you stop taking any prescribed medication.

MORE INFORMATION ON CONSTIPATION AND LAXATIVES:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/laxatives

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ABOUT ME:
Prescribing Media Pharmacist | Extreme Optimist | Bringing Science Through New Videos Every 2 Weeks – Monday 4PM(GMT).

I’m a British – Persian – Iranian prescribing media pharmacist who loves science, making videos and helping people. I work in both GP surgeries and community pharmacy.

DISCLAIMER:
This video is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Abraham The Pharmacist has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Always consult a doctor or other healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.
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