Treatment of Constipation
There are several things you can do at home to prevent constipation and treat it if it does occur. Constipation remedies The following tips can help treat and prevent constipation. Eat more high fibre foods. Drink plenty of water and other fluids. Get regular physical activity. Go to the toilet when you need to, without delaying. If these measures don't work, ask your doctor for advice. They might need to check any medications you take, or prescribe a laxative to get your bowel moving. Laxatives Laxatives can be used to treat constipation. There are several different types. Your doctor will talk with you about which laxative may be best for your episode of constipation. Bulk-forming laxatives, or natural laxatives, are fibre supplements. Examples include psyllium, ispaghula and sterculia. It is important to drink lots of fluids when taking these laxatives. Side effects can include bloating and flatulence. Osmotic laxatives (e.g. lactulose, sorbitol, macrogol 3350) and stimulant laxatives (e.g. senna, bisacodyl) may work for people with chronic (ongoing) They can cause bloating and discomfort. Stool softeners, such as docusate, are often used in combination with a stimulant laxative. It can take several days for some laxatives to work. If you do not notice an improvement, talk to your doctor about other possible treatments for constipation relief.