Constipation

Symptoms of constipation include pain or difficulties passing stool, abdominal pain, hard stools, and stools that come out in the shape of round pellets. Long term, constipation can cause anal fissures and hemorrhoids. Most of the time, constipation is caused by the dietary choices we make, but some people can be more prone to constipation. Some medical conditions and medical can predispose people to constipation as well. If your constipation does not improve with the suggestions below, please talk to your family doctor.

Things you can do to treat your constipation:

  1. Increase water intake
  2. Replace parts of your diet with more fruits and vegetables. Approximately 50% of your daily intake of food should consist of fruits or vegetables.
  3. Add a fibre supplement to your diet. The most common supplement recommended is psyillium fibre, and a common brand is Metamucil. You should take one spoonful with a very large cup of water. Adding a fibre supplement without adequate water intake can worsen constipation.
    • Metamucil is recommended for everyone who has hemorrhoids, to prevent recurrence of bleeding, pain, and inflammation.
  4. Take PEG (polyethelyen glycol) 17g once a day, as needed. A common brand is RestoraLAX. PEG is especially useful if you have been constipated for a long time, and need something to clear out your bowels and restart “fresh”. 
  5. If you are very constipated, it may be beneficial to try a suppository such as a saline or glycerin enema. These will stimulate your rectum for you to have a bowel movement as soon as possible.