What should you know about cheo constipation handout?

Bowel habits vary, but constipation often includes straining, lumpy stools, discomfort, bloating, or a feeling that the bowel has not emptied. Low fluid intake, limited movement, dietary changes, some medicines, and delaying the urge can contribute. Dehydration can make stools harder. Constipation may also occur with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Diverticular Disease, or Hypothyroidism; the symptom does not prove any one condition. A clinician can review medicines and symptoms before recommending a laxative or other treatment.

Drink fluids regularly if you have not been told to restrict them, add fibre gradually through foods, and walk or move within your abilities. Give yourself unhurried toilet time, respond to the urge, and use a comfortable foot position if it helps. Increase fibre slowly and pair it with fluids because a sudden increase may worsen bloating. Nutrition Counselling can help tailor food choices. Do not repeatedly use laxatives, enemas, or bowel remedies without advice, especially if you have severe pain, vomiting, or a new change in bowel habit.

Arrange medical advice for constipation that persists, repeatedly returns, begins after a medicine change, or comes with unexplained tiredness or a change in stool appearance. Seek urgent care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, inability to pass gas, black or bloody stool, or faintness. If thyroid symptoms are suspected, ask about assessment rather than starting Thyroid Hormone Replacement yourself.

Could a medicine or thyroid problem be contributing? How much fibre and fluid suit me? Which bowel treatment is appropriate, and for how long? What symptoms mean that I need urgent assessment?