Medications and Complications of Digestive Disorders

Medications and Complications

Laxatives : Most people who are mildly constipated do not need laxatives. However, those who have made diet and lifestyle changes and are still constipated can take laxatives for a limited time. A doctor should determine when a patient needs a laxative and which laxative is best for him/her. Different groups of laxatives are : 

Bulk-forming laxatives are considered the safest but they can interfere with absorption of some medicines. These laxatives are to be taken with water. They absorb water and make the stool soft. Isabgol husk is the most common example. 

Stimulants increase muscle contractions of the colon. 

Stool softeners provide moisture to the stool. These laxatives are often recommended after childbirth or surgery. 

Lubricants grease the stool enabling it to move through the intestine more easily. Liquid paraffin is the most common example. 

Saline laxatives draw water into the colon. Milk of magnesia is an example of this group.

The treatment measures can be summarized as : 

• Eat a diet high in roughage (fibre).

• Eat regular meals.

• Take bulking agent with meals and follow with a full glass of water 

• Do not take harsh (stimulant) laxatives except as directed. 

• Establish regular daily bowel habits; do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement. 
  Sit in the toilet for sufficient time and do not strain. 

• If there has been no bowel movement for 48 hours, take 1-2 tbsp. Of milk of magnesia at bedtime. If unsuccessful, the does may be increased the next evening. 

• If no bowel movement occurs for three days, use a glycerin suppository. 
  Exercise daily. 

• Whenever possible, avoid medications that contribute to contribute to constipation. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications unless approved to do so by the physician. 

Complications 

Sometimes constipation can lead to complications. These complications include haemorrhoids/piles caused by straining to have a bowel movement or anal fissures ( tears in the skin around the anus) caused when hard stool stretches the sphincter muscle. 

Sometimes straining causes a small amount of rectal lining to push out from the anal opening. This condition is known as rectal prolapse. 

Hard stool can block the intestine and rectum so that the normal action of the colon is not enough to expel the stool. This condition is called faecal impaction and occurs most often in children and older adults. An impaction can be softened with mineral oil taken by mouth or by glycerin suppository. If stools are not passed then, the hardened stool is removed by inserting one to two fingers into the anus. 

Stomach Bloating or Abdominal Distension.
Abdominal pain
Endoscopic procedures
Constipation
Diagnosis and Treatment of Constipation
Medications and Complications
Indigestion