Page 25 - Seniorstoday September-2023 Issue
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Medical conditions Rectal bleeding after straining
Outlet dysfunction constipation - This is Anal fissure, which is a small tear around
a defect in the coordination of your pelvic the anus
floor muscles. These muscles support Symptomatic hemorrhoids (piles), which
the organs within your pelvis and lower are swollen, inflamed blood vessels in the
abdomen. They’re needed to help release anus
poop. Fecal impaction - (Stool that can’t be
Obstructed defecation syndrome - expelled) which occurs when dried stool
Complex or unexplained causes may be stagnates and collects in the rectum and
preventing you from pooping normally. anus, potentially leading to a mechanical
Intestinal pseudo-obstruction - Sometimes, obstruction
the motor system in your colon can become Rectal prolapse - Straining to have a bowel
temporarily paralyzed (as in paralytic ileus movement can cause a small amount of the
or Ogilvie syndrome). rectum to stretch and protrude from the
Lazy bowel syndrome - This is when your anus.
colon contracts poorly and retains poop. Other possible complications include a
The main symptoms of constipation are: reduced quality of life and depression.
● Passing fewer than three stools a week
● Difficulty passing stool Treatment
● Straining when passing stool Constipation usually resolves itself without
● passing less stool than usual the need for prescription treatment.
● lumpy, dry, or hard stool 1. Laxatives
● A sensation of blockage in your rectum They help relieve symptoms in the short-
that prevents bowel movements. term, but should be used cautiously and
● Feeling as though you can’t completely only when making lifestyle changes has not
empty the stool from your rectum. helped. This is because some laxatives can
●Needing help to empty your rectum, have severe adverse effects.
such as using your hands to press on your Some laxatives are available over the
abdomen and using a finger to remove stool counter, while others are available with a
from your rectum. prescription.
● The following are some laxatives
Other symptoms include: and stool softeners that may help ease
● pain and cramping in the abdomen constipation:
● feeling bloated ● Fibre supplements: Also known as bulk-
● nausea forming laxatives, these may be the safest
●a loss of appetite option. They should be taken with plenty of
Constipation may be considered chronic water.
if you’ve experienced two or more of these ● Stimulants: These cause the muscles in
symptoms for the last three months. the intestines to contract rhythmically.
● Lubricants: These help the stool move
Complications of chronic constipation smoothly through the colon.
Damage that can arise as a result of severe ● Stool softeners: These moisten the stool.
constipation includes: ● Osmotics: These draw water into
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