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| Treatment Guide on constipation: A practical aid for pharmacy assistants |
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New research¹ has shed light on an age-old problem, suggesting that much of what we have grown to believe about treating constipation is actually not true.
For many years, constipation sufferers have been advised to treat their condition by making changes to their diet and lifestyle - for instance, by drinking more water and eating more fibre. But new research¹ suggests that this doesn't always work, so to make your life easier a group of experts in the field of gastro-intestinal disorders have created a new set of guidelines drawn up as an easy to use treatment pathway, to help you give customers the right advice.
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| What is constipation? |
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Constipation occurs when the normal muscle action in the colon is disrupted so that waste materials cannot be eliminated normally. Generally, it is accepted that a person is constipated when he/she has fewer than three bowel movements a week, has to strain severely in order to produce any stools, and produces hard, lumpy stools. |
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| The role of diet and lifestyle |
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Although diet and lifestyle changes are not the only way to treat constipation, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet, taking regular exercise and remaining hydrated could help prevent further attacks. However, if a customer is looking for a solution to clear up a current bout of constipation, you should consider offering alternative advice. |
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| Laxatives are safe and effective |
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Stimulant laxatives can be used safely and effectively for short-term relief of constipation. They work by stimulating the colon back into normal action, helping the body to restore its natural rhythm, and usually work between 6 to 12 hours. |
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| Selecting a suitable option |
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Laxatives are available in different formulations, including tablets, micro-capsules and liquid, with varying dosage options. It is important to identify which formulation is best suited to the sufferer.
The new guide giving straightforward advice on constipation treatment can be used to help advise customers in-store. |
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