2. Diarrhea and Constipation Flashcards
What types of stool are the goal?
3 or 4
What are some main medications that cause constipation?
opioids
iron supplements
CCBs
antidepressants
What are some lifestyle causes for constipation?
dehydration
inactivity
pregnancy
diet
What are some disease states that cause constipation?
Colon cancer
IBS
What are some “mush” agents?
PEG emollients non-digestible sugars magnesium Na, Mg, K phosphates fiber
What are some “push” agents?
- Agonists: Senna Cascara bisacodyl - Antagonists: methylnaltrexone alvimopan
What are some “flush” agents?
PEG soap suds Na, Mg, K phosphates molasses non-digestible sugars mineral oil
What is the clinical definition of acute diarrhea?
abrupt onset of 3 or more loose stools per day and lasts no longer than 14 days
What is the clinical definition of chronic/persistent diarrhea?
an episode of diarrhea that lasts longer than 14 days
What is osmotic diarrhea?
water is drawn from the body into the bowel lumen
What is secretory diarrhea?
water is released into the bowel lumen
What is exudative diarrhea?
the presence of blood/pus in stool from inflammation
What is the most common cause of diarrhea?
infection
Most cases of diarrhea require treatment or are self-limiting?
self-limiting
What is the main treatment for all types of diarrhea?
supportive (fluids)