Recommendations

Treatment and preventifnya of constipation should consist of bulk-

forming agents in addition to dietary modification to increase dietary
fiber. 56 some bulk-forming agents are available on combination with
diphenylmethane or anthraquinone derivatives.
For most nonhospitalized persons with acute constipation, the
ingredient use of most laxative products is acceptable. For example,
acute constipation mau be relieved by the use of a tap-water enema or
a glycerin suppository; if brother are effective. If laxative treatment is
required for longer than I week, the person should be advised to
consult a physician to determine if there is and underlying cause of
constipation that required treatment with agents other than laxatives.
Agents that may be used in these situations include diphenylmethane
and anthraquinone derivatives, milk of magnesia, and lactulose.
Mineral oil should be avoided, particulary in bedridden patients,
because of the risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia. Before vigorous
oral laxatives can be used, the impaction needs to be removed using
mechanical methods, including tap water or saline enema and digital
extraction.
Constipation may be related to the use of general anesthesia and/or
apiate substances. Most orally or rectally administrasi laxatives may be
used.
The approach to the treatment of constipation ini young persons
should considered neurologic, metabolic, or anatomic abnormalitas
when constipation is a persistent problem.
Dietary modification should be considered emphasizing high-fiberr
food. For acute constipation ini most age groups. A tap water enema or
glycerin suppository may be helpful. Ocasional use of milk of magnesia
or anthraquinone derivatives in low doses is justified for acute
constipation.
Prevention
For certain groups of patients, such as those recovering from
myocardial infarction or rectally surgery. Straining at defeca tion is to be
avoided. In pregnant patients, constipation may result because of alter
ations in anatomy or iron suplementation.
Laxative abuse syndrom

Misconceptions about normal bowel patterns and the effect of laxative

have contributed to a syndrome of laxative abuse that ia relatively
common in the united states.
Laxative abuse for the purpose of maintaining daily bowel function
begins with misconceptions about the frequency. Quantity, or
consintency of stools. With the use of stroong purgatives, the colon
may be so thoroughly cleansed that a bowel movement may not occur
normally until a few daus later.
Summary
Constipation is a very common problem ini our society mostly because
the avarge person’s diet has inadequate fiber.
Dietary fiber can be increased by consumption of high fiber. Stroonger
laxatives. New drugs are not beingdeveloped to treat constipation, as
new agents would not be expected to change the approach to the
treatment of courtipation.