Constipation

Question 1

What lifestyle modifications can be made to aid constipation?

Answer 1

Drink more water
Increase fibre
Regular exercise
Toilet routine and position

Question 2

Medicine for constipation can be split into 2 groups

Answer 2

Laxatives

Enemas

Question 3

How do osmotic laxatives work?

Answer 3

Increase the amount of water in the large bowel either:
Draw fluid in - lactulose

Retain fluid they came with- macrogols (movicol) is

Question 4

Stimulant laxatives work by?

Answer 4

Increasing intestinal motility

Either oral or PR

Question 5

Name some stimulant laxatives

Answer 5

Senna
Docusate sodium - (glycerin)
Bisacodyl

Question 6

Docusate sodium suppositories work how?

Answer 6

Cause rectal irritation and lubrication- acting as a stimulant and stool softener

Question 7

Name some bulk forming laxatives and state how they work

Answer 7

Methylcellulose
Ispaghula husk
Medicinal fibre

Question 8

How do stool softeners work?

Answer 8

Decrease surface tension of stool

Increase penetration of fluid into stool

Question 9

Name some stool softeners

Answer 9

Docusate sodium
Arachis oil
Liquid paraffin