Constipation pg 2156

Question 1

Where does constipation typically originate from in the body?

Answer 1

colon and rectum or may originate externally

Question 2

multiple causes of constipation, name some:

Answer 2

less fiber intake
systemic diseases (hypothyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, diabetes)
Medications (CCB, iron, narcotics)
laxative abuse
IBS-C
Hirschsprung (infants-inability to have colonic movement)

Question 3

What labs would you run for constipation?

Answer 3

CBC for anemia
Thyroid function
Electrolyte imbalance (hyper or hypokalemia)

Question 4

RAD’s for constipation:

Answer 4

upright chest film- looking for presence of absence of obstruction
abdominal films

Question 5

Treatment for constipation:

Answer 5

address possible psychosocial issues

dietary changes, increase fluids, and fiber supplementation (increase dose over 7-10 days)

2nd line- Emolients e.g. Docusate Sodium (colace), Stimulants e.g. Bisacodyl (dulcolax)

Milk of magnesia
magnesium citrate
sorbitol
miraLax

Suppositories/enemas are third line