How to have daily bowel movements. Mastering Daily Bowel Movements: A Comprehensive Guide to Regularity and Digestive Health
How can you achieve regular daily bowel movements. What dietary changes promote healthy digestion. Which exercises improve bowel control. How does bowel retraining work. What role does biofeedback play in managing fecal incontinence. Why is establishing a consistent bathroom routine important. When should you seek medical advice for digestive issues.
Understanding the Importance of Regular Bowel Movements
Regular bowel movements are a crucial indicator of digestive health and overall well-being. While the frequency of bowel movements can vary from person to person, having daily movements is often considered ideal. But what exactly constitutes a healthy bowel movement pattern?
A regular bowel movement typically occurs anywhere from three times a day to three times a week. The consistency should be soft and well-formed, passing easily without strain. Achieving this regularity can lead to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of constipation, hemorrhoids, and colon cancer.
Common Causes of Irregular Bowel Movements
Irregular bowel movements can stem from various factors. Understanding these causes is the first step towards addressing the issue:
- Poor diet lacking in fiber
- Insufficient hydration
- Lack of physical activity
- Stress and anxiety
- Certain medications
- Underlying medical conditions
Identifying which of these factors may be affecting your digestive health is crucial for developing an effective strategy to improve bowel regularity.
Dietary Modifications for Improved Bowel Function
One of the most effective ways to promote regular bowel movements is through dietary changes. What foods should you incorporate into your diet for optimal digestive health?
- High-fiber foods: Whole grains, fresh vegetables, and legumes
- Probiotic-rich foods: Yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables
- Hydrating foods: Watermelon, cucumber, and zucchini
Additionally, incorporating psyllium husk products like Metamucil can add bulk to stools, promoting regularity. Aim to consume 25-30 grams of fiber daily for women and 30-38 grams for men.
The Role of Hydration in Digestive Health
Proper hydration is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements. How much fluid should you consume daily? Aim for 2 to 3 liters of fluid per day, unless you have a medical condition that requires fluid restriction. Water is the best choice, but herbal teas and clear broths can also contribute to your daily fluid intake.
Bowel Retraining: A Systematic Approach to Regularity
Bowel retraining is a structured program designed to help individuals regain control over their bowel movements. This approach can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from fecal incontinence or severe constipation. But how does bowel retraining work?
The process involves several steps:
- Establishing a regular time for daily bowel movements
- Using digital stimulation techniques
- Implementing dietary changes
- Practicing relaxation techniques
Consistency is key in bowel retraining. Choose a convenient time, preferably 20 to 40 minutes after a meal when bowel activity is naturally stimulated. Most people can establish a regular routine within a few weeks of dedicated practice.
Digital Stimulation Technique
Digital stimulation can be an effective method to trigger bowel movements. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Insert a lubricated finger into the anus
- Move it in a circular motion until the sphincter muscle relaxes
- Sit in a normal position for a bowel movement
- If no movement occurs within 20 minutes, repeat the process
This technique should be performed daily until a regular pattern is established. Some individuals may find it helpful to use suppositories or small enemas in conjunction with digital stimulation.
Exercise and Physical Activity for Digestive Health
Regular physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bowel function. How does exercise contribute to digestive health?
- Stimulates intestinal contractions
- Reduces transit time of food through the digestive system
- Helps maintain a healthy body weight
- Reduces stress, which can impact digestion
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can all contribute to improved digestive health.
Kegel Exercises for Bowel Control
Kegel exercises, originally developed to address urinary incontinence, can also be beneficial for bowel control. These exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which play a crucial role in bowel function. How do you perform Kegel exercises?
- Identify the correct muscles by stopping urination midstream
- Contract these muscles for 5 seconds, then relax for 5 seconds
- Repeat this process 10-15 times, 3 times a day
Consistency is key with Kegel exercises. Incorporate them into your daily routine for optimal results.
Biofeedback: A High-Tech Approach to Bowel Management
Biofeedback is an innovative technique that provides real-time feedback about bodily functions. In the context of bowel management, biofeedback can be particularly useful for individuals struggling with fecal incontinence. How does biofeedback work for bowel control?
The process typically involves:
- Insertion of a rectal plug to detect muscle strength
- Placement of monitoring electrodes on the abdomen
- Visual representation of muscle contractions on a computer screen
- Guided exercises to strengthen rectal muscles
Biofeedback sessions are usually conducted under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Many individuals see improvement in their symptoms after just three sessions.
Establishing a Consistent Bathroom Routine
Creating and maintaining a consistent bathroom routine is crucial for promoting regular bowel movements. Why is routine so important for digestive health?
- Trains your body to expect bowel movements at certain times
- Reduces the likelihood of constipation
- Helps prevent accidents or urgency
- Promotes overall digestive regularity
To establish a routine, choose a consistent time each day for bowel movements. Many find that 20 to 40 minutes after a meal is ideal, as eating stimulates bowel activity. Create a relaxing environment and allow yourself ample time without feeling rushed.
The Importance of Listening to Your Body
While establishing a routine is important, it’s equally crucial to listen to your body’s natural signals. Don’t ignore the urge to have a bowel movement, as this can lead to constipation over time. If you feel the need to go outside of your established routine, honor that signal.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While occasional changes in bowel habits are normal, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. When should you consult a healthcare provider about your bowel movements?
- Persistent changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks
- Blood in the stool
- Severe abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
These symptoms could indicate underlying health issues that require professional evaluation and treatment. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you’re concerned about your digestive health.
Diagnostic Tools for Digestive Health
Healthcare providers have various tools at their disposal to assess digestive health. These may include:
- Stool tests
- Blood tests
- Colonoscopy
- Endoscopy
- Imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs
The specific tests recommended will depend on your symptoms and medical history. Be prepared to discuss your bowel habits, diet, and any medications you’re taking with your healthcare provider.
Holistic Approaches to Digestive Health
While diet and exercise form the foundation of digestive health, holistic approaches can complement these strategies. What alternative methods can support healthy bowel function?
- Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques
- Acupuncture
- Herbal supplements (under professional guidance)
- Abdominal massage
These approaches may help manage stress, reduce inflammation, and promote overall digestive wellness. However, always consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating new treatments into your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions.
The Gut-Brain Connection
Emerging research highlights the intricate relationship between gut health and mental well-being, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. How does this connection impact digestive health?
- Stress can exacerbate digestive issues
- Gut bacteria may influence mood and cognitive function
- Digestive disorders can contribute to anxiety and depression
Recognizing this connection underscores the importance of a holistic approach to digestive health, addressing both physical and mental well-being.
Maintaining Long-Term Digestive Health
Achieving regular bowel movements is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and attention. What strategies can help maintain long-term digestive health?
- Regular health check-ups
- Ongoing dietary awareness
- Consistent exercise routine
- Stress management practices
- Adequate sleep
By incorporating these habits into your daily life, you can promote not only regular bowel movements but overall health and well-being. Remember, digestive health is a key component of your body’s intricate system, influencing everything from your immune function to your mental clarity.
The Role of Probiotics in Digestive Health
Probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. How can probiotics contribute to regular bowel movements?
- Aid in the breakdown of food
- Promote regularity
- Strengthen the gut barrier
- Support immune function
While probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir are beneficial, some individuals may benefit from probiotic supplements. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine if probiotic supplementation is right for you.
In conclusion, achieving and maintaining regular bowel movements is a multifaceted process that involves dietary choices, physical activity, stress management, and consistent habits. By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide and staying attuned to your body’s needs, you can promote optimal digestive health and overall well-being. Remember, everyone’s digestive system is unique, so be patient as you find the approach that works best for you. With dedication and the right strategies, you can master the art of daily bowel movements and enjoy the numerous health benefits that come with a well-functioning digestive system.
Bowel retraining: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
Problems that may benefit from bowel retraining include:
- Fecal incontinence, which is the loss of bowel control, causing you to pass stool unexpectedly. This can range from sometimes leaking a small amount of stool and passing gas, to not being able to control bowel movements.
- Severe constipation.
These problems may be caused by:
- Brain and nerve problems (such as from multiple sclerosis)
- Emotional problems
- Spinal cord damage
- Previous surgery
- Childbirth
- Overuse of laxatives
The bowel program includes several steps to help you have regular bowel movements. Most people are able to have regular bowel movements within a few weeks. Some people will need to use laxatives along with bowel retraining. Your health care provider can tell you if you need to take these medicines and which ones are safe for you.
You will need a physical exam before you start a bowel training program. This will allow your provider to find the cause of the fecal incontinence. Disorders that can be corrected such as fecal impaction or infectious diarrhea can be treated at that time. The provider will use your history of bowel habits and lifestyle as a guide for setting new bowel movement patterns.
DIET
Making the following changes to your diet will help you have regular, soft, bulky stools:
- Eat high-fiber foods such as whole-wheat grains, fresh vegetables, and beans.
- Use products containing psyllium, such as Metamucil, to add bulk to the stools.
- Try to drink 2 to 3 liters of fluid a day (unless you have a medical condition that requires you to restrict your fluid intake).
BOWEL TRAINING
You can use digital stimulation to trigger a bowel movement:
- Insert a lubricated finger into the anus. Move it in a circle until the sphincter muscle relaxes. This may take a few minutes.
- After you have done the stimulation, sit in a normal position for a bowel movement. If you are able to walk, sit on the toilet or bedside commode. If you are confined to the bed, use a bedpan. Get into as close to a sitting position as possible. If you are unable to sit, lie on your left side.
- Try to get as much privacy as you can. Some people find that reading while sitting on the toilet helps them relax.
- If you do not have a bowel movement within 20 minutes, repeat the process.
- Try to contract the muscles of the abdomen and bear down while releasing the stool. You may find it helpful to bend forward while bearing down. This increases the pressure within the abdomen and helps empty the bowel.
- Perform stimulation with your finger every day until you start to have a regular pattern of bowel movements.
- You can also stimulate bowel movements by using a suppository (glycerin or bisacodyl) or a small enema. Some people find it helpful to drink warm prune juice or fruit nectar.
Keeping to a regular pattern is very important for a bowel retraining program to succeed. Set a regular time for daily bowel movements. Choose a time that is convenient for you. Keep in mind your daily schedule. The best time for a bowel movement is 20 to 40 minutes after a meal, because eating stimulates bowel activity.
Most people are able to establish a regular routine of bowel movements within a few weeks.
KEGEL EXERCISES
Exercises to strengthen the rectal muscles may help with bowel control in people who have an incompetent rectal sphincter. Kegel exercises that strengthen pelvic and rectal muscle tone can be used for this. These exercises were first developed to control incontinence in women after childbirth.
To be successful with Kegel exercises, use the proper technique and stick to a regular exercise program. Talk with your provider for instructions about how to do these exercises.
BIOFEEDBACK
Biofeedback gives you sound or visual feedback about a bodily function. In people with fecal incontinence, biofeedback is used to strengthen the rectal sphincter.
A rectal plug is used to detect the strength of the rectal muscles. A monitoring electrode is placed on the abdomen. The rectal plug is then attached to a computer monitor. A graph displaying rectal muscle contractions and abdominal contractions will show up on the screen.
To use this method, you will be taught how to squeeze the rectal muscle around the rectal plug. The computer display guides you to make sure you are doing it correctly. Your symptoms should begin to improve after 3 sessions.
Train Yourself To Poop Regularly & Easily With These 4 Steps
I’m excellent at pooping — I poop every day, sometimes as many as three times. Every morning, like clockwork, I enter the bathroom and empty myself out completely. It’s typically over in under a minute. I’m never constipated, I never have diarrhea, I’m never bloated, there’s no straining, and I barely need to wipe. I usually repeat this morning routine two more times before bed.
This is not something I often share publicly; as a society, we tend to shun poop talk. Not to mention that for women, bathroom topics are especially fraught. Privately, though, this skill brings me much joy.
That’s because pooping well not only feels great, it also means your body is working properly. Diarrhea can indicate a food allergy, parasites, infections, IBS, or Crohn’s Disease. Serious constipation is also a sign of internal problems and can result in a host of unpleasant effects such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or an impacted bowel — a condition where a large, dry mass of stool is stuck inside your rectal zone. Strange-looking poos or non-productive poo habits offer an easy way to spot problems, yet we don’t discuss gastrointestinal health nearly enough.
When it comes to pooping habits, “there is no normal,” gastroenterologist Dr. Patricia Raymond, M.D., tells Bustle. “When we are trying to make people poop who are dissatisfied, we aim for one CSBM (complete spontaneous bowel movement) per day. You shouldn’t strain or rush to the bathroom, and you should feel like you got everything out.” In my household, we call a CSBM a P² — a perfect poo.
If you’re concerned about how your poo might rate, consult one of the most commonly used diagnostic tools: the Bristol Stool Chart. It ranks seven categories of excrement from “very constipated” to “normal” to “lacking fiber” to “inflammation.”
In search of your CSBM/P²? Here’s my healthy pooping roadmap.
We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle’s editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
1. Make Some Additions To Your Diet
KarinaUrmantseva/E+/Getty Images
Fiber
Fiber isn’t a panacea, but as Dr. Raymond reminds me, the typical American diet is light on this staple. Aim to fill up on dietary fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds) instead of the medical options sold in drugstores; seven servings per day will do you. Fiber can help with both constipation and diarrhea. Just increase your intake gradually to avoid bloating and other digestive unpleasantness.
Water
Water is crucial for all excretion purposes. Just like with fiber, most people are probably not hydrating enough. Medical experts recommend around four to six cups per day (people who exercise or are pregnant should drink more). Try starting your morning with a bowel-moving mug of warm water with lemon — hot liquids get your gut moving.
Probiotics
Probiotics can aid digestion too. You can either take capsules, or get healthy bacteria from fermented food sources like kimchi, yogurt, or kefir. A diverse gut bacteria community or microbiome is essential for a P². Scientists are particularly excited about this link in the excrement chain right now.
2. Subtract Some Items From Your Diet
Sometimes, it’s more about what you shouldn’t be eating. My bathroom habits weren’t always perfect. For years, I ignored my lactose intolerance, eating cheese pizzas and ice cream that kept me up all night with stomach pain. Finally, I completely overhauled my diet, doing away with all dairy. I also cut way back on alcohol, caffeine, carbs, and meat.
According to the Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, some common foods and drinks that contribute to diarrhea and bowel control problems are: dairy products, caffeinated beverages, cured or smoked meats, spicy foods, alcohol, fatty or greasy foods, some fruits (apples, peaches, pears), and sweeteners in diet drinks and sugarless products. “Meat is one of those things that can be not stellar for your GI tract,” says Dr. Raymond. “A diet high in animal fats and low in dietary fiber can increase your risk of bowel cancer.”
I follow all these rules. This doesn’t make me the life of the party. When you’re the one asking the waiter what, exactly, is in that fish dish, or you’re the one at the bar who isn’t drinking, it can be tough, socially. I drink a ton of water, take a daily probiotic (and snack on fermented foods), load up on vegetables, and eat very little meat. My typical breakfast is warm water with lemon, then this smoothie plus some hemp seeds, then a small coffee. It’s a one-two-three punch that’s wildly effective.
3. Make Small Lifestyle Changes
If you find yourself straining a lot when you get to the commode, you should invest in a Squatty Potty, which retails for just $24.99 on Amazon. Reviews are glowing. Writes one happy customer, “This is by far the best bathroom accessory you can buy. I like to poop. It’s literally the first thing I do in the morning. This will make it that more enjoyable. Sit down, pull it out from the toilet, put your feet up, and bombs away! It feels like a straight pipe coming from your colon. Remember those difficult to push out BMs? No more! With just a slight push, you are done.” Disclosure: I bought a Squatty Potty for my husband as a joke last year, and neither of us expected it would be effective. Turns out, it’s incredible. In the morning, we jockey for it.
“Toilet posture is important,” Squatty Potty creator Bobby Edwards, who originally created the stool for his mother and sold more than $15 million worth of the product in 2016, tells Bustle. “[The Squatty Potty] takes us back to the proper position and posture of elimination. We get a lot of emails from people who say this has changed their life.” Stools like the Squatty Potty are all-around great, but can work especially well for people with pelvic floor dysfunction (common after childbirth), says Dr. Raymond. The magic of the Squatty Potty is that it makes everything about elimination much easier, removing the need to strain and seriously cutting the time you’ll need in the bathroom.
For clients that have excretion issues, Dr. Raymond sometimes recommends timed toileting (aka teaching people to poop on demand). Here’s how it works: Eat a high-fat breakfast followed by strong hot coffee followed by a brisk walk around the block. Then, go and sit on the commode. Repeat daily.
4. Exercise Regularly
When your stomach’s all bound up, something as simple as a long walk can provide incredible relief. Exercise helps to move food through your digestive track, as any long-distance runner can testify. Try eating a huge Thanksgiving meal, then parking yourself on the couch. The result? You feel tired and bloated. In addition to walking, I find yoga hugely effective. It’s hard to find scientific studies to back up my experience (is no one in medicine concerned about the yoga/great poops connection?), but anecdotally, I can say that the deep twists and stretches definitely stimulate my digestive system.
None of these recommendations are earth-shattering, sure. Eat right, drink enough water, get adequate exercise — this isn’t just an outline of how to poop better, it’s also tried-and-true advice for overall wellness. But like noted pooping evangelist Cameron Diaz says, poo, like pee, or snot, or anything else that leaks out of your orifices, speaks volumes about your health. We aren’t just what we eat, we’re also what we poop.
Sources:
Dr. Patricia Raymond, M.D., gastroenterologist
Bobby Edwards, Squatty Potty CEO
How Often Should You Poop? And Why Do You Poop Every Morning?
How often should you poop? Why do I poop so much in the morning? These are the types of questions you may ask yourself, and Google, but understandably don’t bring up in daily conversation. Because of the TMI nature surrounding poop, it can be hard to get conclusive answers about how to have regular bowel movements in the morning. But according to experts, the ideal pooping regimen is indeed once a day, in the morning.
That being said, consistency — as in frequency, not texture — matters more than anything else when it comes to poop. (Note that this applies only to grownups, not baby poops.) Whether you have diarrhea every morning or take solid dumps at night, poop a lot or a little, like clockwork or more sporadically, know that you’re not alone. (And please, don’t hold it in). But for many people, pooping every morning is normal, and for good reason. The human body is best equipped to poop in the morning hours, medical experts say.
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“In the morning, when we first wake up, an internal alarm clock goes off in our colon, and the colon starts contracting more vigorously,” says gastroenterologist Sarina Pasricha, MD. “In fact, the colon contracts and squeezes three times as hard in the first hour we are awake compared to when we are sleeping.”
How to Empty Your Bowels Every Morning
What happens in your sleep is a big reason your body is usually ready for a poop in the morning. As you snooze, the small intestine and colon work to process all the food leftover from the day. After waking, it usually takes around 3o minutes for the urge to poop to set in. Morning routines like stretching, drinking water, and of course coffee all help to move digestion and trigger that first poop. About 30 percent of people report the need to poop after a hot cup of joe.
“Drinking early morning coffee works synergistically with gut motility to create healthy bowel movements,” Pasricha says. Another effective trick is a glass of warm salt water (with a little lemon to improve the taste). Although it won’t “detox” your body as some claim, it definitely helps get things moving.
How Often Should You Poop?
If you don’t poop every morning, worry not. Not everyone should be pooping every single morning, and there’s no set number of times a day you should poop. Pooping anywhere from three days a week to three times a day is considered normal.
In fact, it’s less about how many times a day you poop and more about consistency. Look out for sudden changes in how often you poop, but know that it’s normal for deviations to occur during menstruation or travel (an estimated 40 percent of people experience constipation while on vacation). Occasional morning diarrhea is normal, but if it happens every day, you should check with a doctor, as it could signal an issue like Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Even if it doesn’t progress to something more serious, starting the day with diarrhea is not fun.
What can you do to have a regular and healthy morning poop? Diet and exercise make the biggest difference between weekly and daily dumpers. Regular sleep also plays a role in how often you poop. “Sleep disturbances alter the natural colon peristalsis. People can have irregular bowel movements,” Pasricha warns. “Uninterrupted deep sleep is important in maintaining healthy pooping behavior.”
Ultimately, taking a prompt morning poop is not critical to a person’s health, Pasricha says. But it sure is a healthy way to poop as it ensures that you’re pooping on a regular basis. “Some people may not have morning bowel movements, and this does not necessarily mean there are any issues,” Pasricha says. “It is okay not to have morning bowel movements as long as people are having regular daily bowel movements.”
How Many Bowel Movements a Day Is Normal?
Bowel movement frequency is an important health marker. A healthy daily routine should include:
- About one poop a day.
- If you’re pooping a lot more than twice a day, you should check in with your doctor. (Three times a week to three times a day is considered a normal range).
- A poop about 30 minutes after waking is normal (although no one should panic if this isn’t their window).
- Coffee or even a glass of salt water can help keep you regular.
- If you have diarrhea every morning, you should check with your doctor as this is a common sign of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS.
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Bowel Management | Pediatric Urology | Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD)
A bowel management program for your child should begin when they’re an infant to prevent constipation and keep their colon from becoming stretched, out of shape, and the sphincter muscles working properly.
The following sections provide information about a bowel management program for each stage in your child’s life:
Bowel management during infancy
During infancy, the goals of a bowel program are to maintain normal stool consistency (soft and easy to push) and to have an average number of stools per day. Routine emptying of the bowel and prevention of constipation will help keep the colon from becoming stretched out of shape and will help to keep the sphincter muscles working properly.
Developmental issues
There is a wide variation in stool patterns in infants. Breast fed infants initially have as many as six to twelve stools a day, later one to six stools a day. Formula fed infants initially may have one to eight stools a day, but by six to twelve months they generally have one to three stools a day. Constant smearing of stool on the diaper as well as hard ball shaped stool may be the first signs of constipation.
The role of diet in bowel management
When you introduce solid foods or change from breast milk to formula, you will notice changes in your child’s stools. You can prevent or treat constipation in infants by:
- Being sure your infant is getting plenty of fluids such as water and fruit juices. Offer prune juice, one to two ounces per day, straight or diluted with an equal amount of water or apple juice.
- Offering high fiber foods that are natural stool softeners as you introduce solid foods. For the infant, use oatmeal or barley baby cereals (not rice). Offer wheat grain breads rather than white bread.
- Offering most pureed fruits (not bananas) such as pureed prunes, 1/2 to 1 jar daily.
- Offering Fruit-Eze: A fruit paste made of raisins, dates, prunes and prune juice that provides a highly concentrated source of fiber. It can be eaten alone, added to cereal or yogurt, or as a spread on bread or toast. Store in the refrigerator. Use 1 teaspoon a day and adjust as needed. The company will provide information and samples. You can get these samples by calling: (800) 743-1941
- Offering Homemade Fruit and Fiber Spread. It is similar to Fruit-Eze but the consistency is not as smooth. Blend the following in a blender for two minutes:
- 1/3 cup raisins
- 6 prunes
- 1/2 orange (peeled)
- 1/2 unpeeled apple
- 2 TBSP prune juice
- 2 TBSP orange juice
Store in the refrigerator. Use 1 teaspoon a day and adjust as needed.
If your baby does develop small, hard stools or does not have a daily bowel movement, you may need to give a stool softening agent such as Maltsupex or psyllium powder. If your baby goes two days without a bowel movement, call your health care provider for suggestions about treatment.
Bowel management for toddlers
During the toddler period (18-36 months), it is important to continue to have good stool consistency, have a stool at least every other day and introduce the concept of regular toileting to the child. Stools should be soft and formed (log shaped) by about 18 months of age.
The role of diet and toddler eating habits
To get the right stool consistency, continue to give your child high fiber foods, like fruits and vegetables, wheat bread and high fiber cereals. During the toddler period, it is normal for children to be “picky” eaters. Since your child will develop his or her likes from what you offer, teach your child to like healthy foods now by offering good choices. Here are some suggestions that may help.
- If your child does not like a food, give small portions and praise your child for trying one or two bites.
- Give your child lots of water and juices.
- Limit milk to 16 ounces of low fat milk and limit other dairy products if they are constipating.
- Offer fresh fruits for desserts and snacks.
- At this age, special recipes such as psyllium jello squares or psyllium jello jigglers may be a fun way to provide fiber to the diet.
- If diet alone does not keep your child’s stool soft enough, Fruit-Eze, a commercial high fiber fruit paste, made of raisins, dates, prunes and prune juice may be helpful. It can be eaten alone, added to cereal or yogurt, or used as a spread on bread or toast. Store in the refrigerator. Use 1 teaspoon a day and adjust as needed. You can get samples by calling: (800) 243-1941.
The toddler should have a bowel movement at least every two days. If your toddler does not have a bowel movement, contact your health care provider for suggestions on how to treat this.
Developmental issues
Since children at this age learn by imitation, it is important to begin to expose the toddler to other family member’s toileting habits. This means as parents, you need to bring your child to the bathroom so the child learns other family members have bowel movements in the toilet on a daily basis. This is especially important for the child who is not walking and unaware of others toileting habits.
Establishing a regular toileting time should be started. Observe your child to see if he or she gives signs, such as straining, to let you know when he or she is about to have a bowel movement. Keep a record of when your child has bowel movements and note if there is a pattern to it, such as after meals. Some children initially may need to use oral medication, such as Senokot or a suppository to help train the bowel to empty at a scheduled time. Your health care provider will make recommendations if these are needed.
As the child shows interest, you may begin to introduce your child to the potty chair. As with all children, there is a wide variation of age as to when the child is ready for this. Generally, around age three is a good time to begin to encourage the child to sit on the potty, but do not force it. This is called scheduled toileting or habit training.
A few training tips
- Have the child sit on the potty in the bathroom for a few minutes.
- Choose a time when your child is likely to have a bowel movement, such as after dinner or any time you might predict he or she will have a bowel movement. Have your child sit on the potty the same time each day. Consistency is very important.
- Choose a comfortable, well supported potty chair that rests on the floor. The child’s feet should be flat on the floor or on a stool with the knees higher than the buttocks, so the child can push.
- Help the child learn to push (bear down) by coughing, blowing a piece of paper off your hand, or blowing a pinwheel.
- Make the time on the potty pleasant. Look at books, blow bubbles.
- Slowly increase the amount of time spent sitting on the potty to ten minutes.
- The initial goal is to get the child to sit on the potty. It is important to be positive and praise your child for sitting on the potty. Simple rewards such as a sticker may also be used. If the child does not have a bowel movement, encourage him or her to try again the next time.
- As your child develops a regular toileting time, he or she may begin to see some accident free days. It is especially important to work on developing this habit before your child begins school.
Weaning your child off the suppository
You may try weaning your child off the suppository once he or she is having regular bowel movements in the toilet. This is done by using the suppository every other day but still having your child sit on the toilet every day at the same time and encouraging your child to push. Continue to praise your child for having a bowel movement without the suppository. As the child becomes more successful, extend the toileting days without the use of the suppository. If you are using dietary fiber supplements or a stool softener, continue to use them.
If your child becomes constipated or goes more than two days without a soft log shaped stool, an enema may be given. The most commonly used enemas are pediatric Fleets enemas or homemade saline enemas made by adding one teaspoon of salt to one pint of water.
If severe constipation occurs, contact your health care provider.
Bowel management for children five and older
As your child approaches school age, achieving continence becomes very important for social reasons. If a child does not have a well established bowel program by this time, the child and parents must realize it may take several months to get a program working. It is important to keep providing your child positive support.
Goals at this age
- Develop good stool consistency and prevent constipation
- Establish a regular time for bowel movements to occur
- Achieve accident free days
- Achieve increased independence in self care
Assessment
If your child has not been on a bowel program before or has not been successful with previous efforts at bowel training, it is helpful to obtain a two to three week record of bowel patterns. This record should include the number of accidents, when they occur, the consistency of stools, and degree of constipation. This information will help determine what type of program might be most successful with your child.
Treatment
Before starting any program, it is important that the bowel be cleaned out. Your health care provider will recommend a clean out regimen. If your child has had chronic constipation, it may take several months for the colon to return to its normal shape. If a good stool consistency has not been obtained, a high fiber diet, adequate fluids and the use of a bulking agent (such as Benefiber or Miralax) should be introduced.
Children who are not constipated and have 2 or less stools per day are often successful with a habit training program. The habit training program is a program in which the bowel is trained to empty at the same time each day. This is done by having the child sit on the toilet and push at the same time each day. After a meal is often a good time since the child can take advantage of the natural elimination reflex that occurs after eating. Some children may need to use a suppository or an oral medication such as Senokot to help train the bowel to empty at a scheduled time.
Children with frequent (3 or more stools per day) or hard, ball-shaped stools may be more successful with an “enema continence program”. This consists of administering an enema on a daily basis, at the same time each day.
Once an enema continence program is implemented and successful for several months, you may try to wean your child off the enemas. Do this by reducing the enemas to every other day rather than daily and begin habit training on the alternate days. The goal is to use fewer enemas as the child increases the number of bowel movements on the toilet with pushing.
In children with very lax sphincter muscles who are unable to retain a regular enema, a special enema tube called the Enema Continence Catheter may be used. This enema is used as a daily cleansing program to achieve continence. The catheter is a tube with a balloon at the end that can be inflated in the rectum. This allows fluid to remain in the colon. This procedure is done on the toilet.
If this fails, there is a surgery called the Malone or ACE (Antegrade Continence Enema). This surgery creates a channel to the bowel that can be catheterized. This channel will be used to give enemas, which will produce a predictable bowel movement.
Please keep in mind, no one bowel program works for all children. Each child needs to have a program modified to his or her needs. Through modifications, “fine-tuning,” and consistent praise, your child can be successful.
Page reviewed on: Apr 29, 2009
Page reviewed by: Leslie T. McQuiston, MD
Disclaimer
Constipated? Here’s What You Can Do to Unblock Yourself.
Some people think if they don’t have a bowel movement every day, they’re constipated, but this isn’t the case. Officially, being constipated means having two or fewer bowel movements a week.
You may also be constipated if you experience straining, hard stools, a feeling of being blocked up or a feeling that you don’t completely empty your bowels.
“If you’re constipated, you may also feel cramping, bloating, nausea or pain in the rectum from straining,” says Dr. Amitpal Johal, division chief of gastroenterology and hepatology at Geisinger Medical Center.
If any of these feelings last for several weeks or longer, you’re likely looking for a constipation remedy. Here’s what you can do at home to unblock yourself and feel relief.
Make changes to your diet and lifestyle
Treating constipation typically begins with diet and lifestyle changes. The changes you make can speed up the rate that stool moves through your intestines.
Here are three easy changes that can help you relieve constipation:
Eat more fiber
Try increasing the fiber you take in. Adding fiber to your diet increases the weight of stool and can speed its passage through your intestines.
“A sudden increase in the amount of fiber you’re eating can trigger uncomfortable bloating and gas, so start adding it to your diet slowly and increase the amount you consume over a few weeks,” says Dr. Johal.
This constipation remedy usually involves adding more fiber into your diet by eating more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Drink more water
Make sure you’re drinking enough fluids each day, because dehydration is one of the most common causes of chronic constipation.
“You should aim to drink between eight and 10 glasses of water or non-caffeinated drinks each day. And if you already are, two to four extra glasses of water a day may help ease constipation,” says Dr. Johal.
If you’re constipated, don’t just focus on warding off dehydration by drinking more fluids, but make them the right fluids by avoiding alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
“For some people, drinking warm liquids, especially in the morning, can help unblock them,” says Dr. Johal.
Move more often
Exercising most days of the week is another good way to relieve your constipation.
“Physical activity can increase the muscle activity in your intestines, helping move things along easier and faster,” says Dr. Johal. Exercise to ease constipation doesn’t have to be drastic — it could be as simple as walking each day.
Set yourself up for success
Set aside time each day so you can take your time in the bathroom. Allow yourself enough time to have a bowel movement without distractions or feeling rushed. Plus, establishing a routine may help.
“Our lives can get busy, especially if you feel like you’re in a rush to get to work in the morning, but it’s important to not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement,” says Dr. Johal.
Putting some focus on the position of your body during a bowel movement can make a difference, too.
“Some people find that placing a small stepstool under their feet while sitting on the toilet makes bowel movements easier — this position can help you flex your hips and place your pelvis in a more natural squat position,” says Dr. Johal.
If none of these changes help unblock you, adding processed or synthetic fiber to your daily diet, or taking a stool softener, a rectal glycerin suppository or laxatives can help.
“As always, if you have any questions or concerns, call your doctor,” says Dr. Johal. “They can help you determine what treatments might work best for you.”
Next steps:
Make an appointment with Amitpal Johal, MD
Learn more about gastroenterology care at Geisinger
Tips for Preventing Constipation
vittaya25/iStock /Getty Images Plus
When it comes to bowel movements, each of us is different. Having a bowel movement three times a week may be normal for one person, while daily bowel movements may be common for another. However, if you go less than three times per week, you may be constipated. Other symptoms of constipation include bowel movements that are hard, dry or lumpy; bowel movements that are difficult or painful to pass; or the sensation that the bowel continually remains full or that not all of it has passed.
There are many possible causes of constipation. For example, a lack of dietary fiber, not getting enough fluids and low levels of physical activity may increase the risk. Other causes may include health conditions such as celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome. Sometimes certain medications or supplements may cause constipation, such as prescription drugs for depression, pain control, high blood pressure and Parkinson’s disease. Over-the-counter medication, such as calcium and iron supplements, allergy drugs and antacids with aluminum can also increase your risk of becoming constipated.
Laxatives and Enemas
Sometimes people rely on laxatives and enemas to help keep their bowel movements regular. These over-the-counter treatments stimulate bowel movements. However, using either of these treatments too often can weaken your bowel’s ability to work normal. Using both laxatives and enemas too frequently may lead to constipation. Before you reach for a laxative or enema, talk with your health care provider about any changes in your bowel movements.
Ignoring the Urge to Go
Just as laxatives and enemas may do harm to your bowels, so might holding or restricting bowel movements when you have to go. Holding a bowel movement beyond the normal urge may affect normal muscle functioning and lead to constipation.
Food Choices that Impact Regularity
Consuming a variety of foods that include dietary fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with adequate fluid intake may help keep your bowel movements regular, as well as prevent and relieve constipation. Limit foods that are lower in fiber, such as highly processed and prepared foods by replacing them with higher fiber choices. This should be done gradually and while increasing fluid intake. Learn more about these topics:
Being Active is Important
Being active may also help to keep your bowel movements regular. Individuals who do not participate in regular physical activity may be more likely to become constipated. Need motivation to get moving? Check out:
How a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Can Help
A registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) can help assess the adequacy of the fiber and fluids in your diet, as well as suggest options to help reduce your risk for constipation. To find an RDN in your area, search the Academy’s online database
How to Have Regular Bowel Movements in the Morning
Follow these tips to have regular bowel movements in the morning.
Image Credit: Deagreez/iStock/GettyImages
People, let’s talk about your poop schedule. Are you someone who goes like clockwork? Or are you more the type who has no idea if or when the urge to go will greet you?
First thing to know: Gastroenterologists consider normal bowel movement (BM) frequency to be anywhere in the realm of three times a week to several times a day, says Baldeep S. Pabla, MD, gastroenterologist and assistant professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.
Secondly, your body is actually programmed to want to go in the morning, and if you take advantage of that opportunity, you can get yourself into a routine.
Why is the a.m. prime time? “During sleep, colon motility generally stops,” Dr. Pabla says.
That’s overwhelmingly good news — no one wants to poop themselves in the night. But after you wake up, things start moving again, and stimulating waves from the colon tell your body: “time to move stool to the top of the rectum!” Once there, the rectum senses that “there’s stool here!” and your brain tells you it’s time to head to the toilet.
Other things help this along, including the gastrocolic reflex: Eating sends food to your stomach, and as your stomach stretches, hormones are released that signal the colon to squeeze and move things out, Dr. Pabla explains.
There’s merit to maintaining a schedule.
“Pooping routinely makes way for more food for your body and decreases bloating, constipation and other GI symptoms that occur when you’re retaining stool,” Dr. Pabla says.
The good news is that if you want to include “have a BM” on your morning list of to-dos, there are ways you can train yourself to get there, says Amar Naik, MD, a gastroenterologist and director of the IBD Program at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago.
1. Figure Out What’s Already Working for You (or Not)
If you have no idea when you’re really going, then — pro gastro tip — keep a stool diary. Yep, write down when and what you’re eating, and when you’re having a BM.
Monitoring yourself this way for a few weeks can help you connect the dots on how your lifestyle and habits play into regularity. You may also notice that a recent change in your diet (the amount of fruit or veggies you’re eating, added fiber, eating only at certain times) has made your BMs go haywire.
When you get the “gotta go” feeling, then go to the bathroom. It may sound simple, but with our busy lifestyles, it can be easy to ignore or delay your trip to the toilet — don’t.
“Listening to the urge helps maintain a normal stooling pattern,” Dr. Pabla says.
3. Give Yourself Time in the A.M.
This is one of the best things you can do. Because if you’re rushing out the door, into the car or to a place where you don’t feel comfortable having a BM, you might, in fact, ignore the urge to go.
Make it part of your morning routine and give yourself the time and space to go if your body needs to.
4. If You Don’t Succeed, Try Again Tomorrow
Go to the bathroom and see if you can go. But don’t sit there for a half hour on your phone — that can cause straining that can create problems.
“If you can’t go, get up and do something else,” Dr. Naik says.
You might skip breakfast because you’re not hungry in the morning, are following intermittent fasting and eating later or don’t really love breakfast foods. But if you want to get onto a morning poop schedule, eating only helps because it triggers that gastrocolic reflex.
What you eat matters, too. “Higher-fat foods tend to activate colon contractions more than higher-protein and carbohydrate foods,” Dr. Pabla says.
6. Maintain a Healthy Diet
This means drinking enough fluids and eating enough fiber, as both are components of healthy stools.
Aim for between 91 and 125 ounces of water a day (that’s about 11 to 16 cups), per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Water intake includes fluids and water-rich foods (like fruits and vegetables).
Also important is watching your fiber intake, especially if you’re dealing with constipation. Adults ages 50 and younger should get between 25 and 38 grams a day, while older adults should get 21 to 30 grams, according to the Mayo Clinic. Good sources of fiber include fruits, veggies, beans and whole grains like barley and bulgur.
7. Know When to Call Your Doctor
Honestly, your bathroom habits are pretty cool — they give you a peek into what could be going on with your health. And your poop will send you some pretty crazy alarm signals when things are off.
Call your doctor for any presence of blood (every time, but especially if you have a family history of colon cancer) or drastic changes in your BMs. For example, now you have constipation when you were regular before, or you’re experiencing a bout of diarrhea.
A few days of BMs gone haywire can be caused by stuff going on in your life, like stress, traveling, a change in diet, lack of sleep or an infection, Dr. Naik says, but if that change has lingered for two or three weeks, then you may need to be evaluated.
90,000 Constipation – what is it and is it serious?
If you ask a modern person what does the term “constipation” mean, then many probably will not be able to answer this question.
Meanwhile, this state is familiar to more than 50% of people. After all, “constipation” is a slowdown in the daily rhythm of the evacuation function of our intestines, manifested by its irregularity at a stool frequency of less than 7 times a week. In essence, “constipation” is the first, initial stage of a more familiar pathology – “Constipation”.
Constipation accompanying:
- duodenal ulcer – in 84% of cases,
- gastric ulcer – in 50% of cases,
- calculous cholecystitis – in 52% of cases,
- chronic gastritis – in 42% of cases.
In surveys, this condition is revealed in 66% of the city dwellers who consider themselves healthy, and only in 7% of the village dwellers.
Constipation can be thought of as “intestinal arrhythmia.”And it should be taken seriously, since a slowdown in the rhythm of the motor-evacuation function of the intestine often precedes the manifestation of diseases such as diverticulosis and colon polyposis. Long-term constipation is considered a risk factor for colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and gallbladder cancer.
The sanatorium has a spacious dining room for 400 seats.
Many patients do not attach importance to the severity of constipation and do not consider it necessary to examine the colon and rectum.But, in a study of 20,745 patients in 31 medical centers in 21 states in the United States, it was found that intestinal polyps were detected in 6.45% of asymptomatic patients. In the presence of complaints of constipation and constipation, the number of detected pathology increased to 17.05%.
With daily adequate nutrition, the normal enteral rhythm should be considered a regular daily bowel movement in the morning, accompanied by a feeling of relief. For some people, morning emptying can be two-phase: one before breakfast, the other after breakfast.An increase in the frequency of emptying can be observed with the consumption of large amounts of vegetables and fruits. But sometimes, excess stool frequency in a healthy person (without complaints and symptoms) is one of the earliest signs of excess nutrition.
Thus, when symptoms of “intestinal arrhythmia” appear, it is advisable to undergo an examination and develop a program to fight to improve the quality of life.
Taking into account the pathology, the examination program should include:
- Clinical and biochemical blood tests
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs (incl.including pancreas and gallbladder)
The chronophysiological approach to the evacuation function of the intestine contains the following provisions:
- Stool frequency is a marker of human health.
- The optimal time for obligatory daily bowel movements is morning (from waking up to 12 noon).
- Constipation is not a “harmless” symptom, but a universal pathogenic block accompanying the pathogenesis of internal diseases.
- Constipation is a factor in lowering the quality of life (by almost 20%).
- Constipation is a triggering factor in many internal diseases.
- Constipation is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer, gallbladder cancer and colorectal cancer.
The risk of constipation can be significantly reduced if the 4F principle is observed:
- Physiology Nutrition – “Daily regular food corresponds to daily emptying.”
- Phase – It is the morning phase of bowel movement that is best for reducing the risk of constipation.IP Pavlov wrote: “There is nothing more imperious in the life of the human body than rhythm.”
- Functionality – eating food that promotes bowel emptying and restriction of food that delays its evacuation function. The fundamental law of nutrition says: “A little can help you, a lot can kill you.”
- Physical culture – daily exercises, deep breathing improves bowel function.
Treatment of constipation should be:
Integrated
- normalization of the diet;
- compliance with the daily rhythm of “sleep-wakefulness”;
- activation of motor activity;
- only in the absence of the effect of the above – medication.
Individual
Taking into account the psychophysiological characteristics of the patient and his social status, taking into account the real frequency and phase of the daily rhythm of defecation in the patient.
In this regard, it becomes necessary to consult a nutritionist, a specialist in physiotherapy exercises, a psychotherapist.
Summing up, we can say: the entire program of examination and treatment can be successfully carried out on the basis of the medical facility “Sanatorium named after the 30th anniversary of Victory”Zheleznovodsk.
You can find out about our gastrointestinal tract treatment program here
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Sanatorium doctors
90,000 Biorhythms and human health (chronic constipation)
Konstantin Aleksandrovich Shemerovsky, Doctor of Medical Sciences, specialist of the Institute of Experimental Medicine spoke about the consequences of disturbance of circadian rhythms for our body, focusing on the excretory function of the body.
Every cell of the human body works in a circadian (circadian) mode – 24 plus or minus 4 hours, synchronized with the rhythm of the earth’s rotation. Sleep and wakefulness, nutrition and fasting, heart rate and blood pressure are subordinated to circadian rhythms. The motility of the duodenum, the transit time through the large intestine, an increase in anal pressure and the rhythm of defecation are also subject to circadian biorhythms. In the morning, the body has already “prepared” everything that is needed for the evacuation. When a person lives on a daily basis, then he has a timely excretion of metabolic products from the body.
Having daily morning bowel movements is a normal evolutionary response. The intestines are programmed to empty every 24 hours, but nearly half of the population has a circadian rhythm disorder. In this case, desynchronosis develops – the malaise of the body due to a violation of its circadian rhythms. If the regime is violated, such as working on the night shift, then the excretory function also suffers. We are talking about constipation, which is not given due attention, about which it is considered a shame to speak with a doctor.Constipation – no excretion of stool within 24 hours. For some reason, irregular bowel movements do not raise questions for many of us and are considered almost normal. If the stool happens 5-6 times a week, then it is already constipation of the 1st degree, if 3-4 times, then it is the 2nd degree, if the stool is only 1-2 times a week, then it is constipation of the 3rd severity. The quality of life also suffers. With constipation of 3 degrees, it is necessary to exclude oncological pathology and be sure to consult a gastroenterologist.
Normal stools should be daily, in the morning, between 6 and 12 hours.Why exactly at this time? First, a portion of stool is formed during a night’s sleep, since the colon works all night. Secondly, in the morning there are 3 powerful reflexes (urge): orthostatic – for an upright position when we get out of bed, sigmo – rectal – for bowel prolapse and gastro – rectal – for eating. Therefore, we must try not to suppress the urge due to the morning rush. With morning stool, the risk of constipation is minimal, and with evening stool, the risk of constipation is 4 times increased.
Why is chronic constipation dangerous? First of all, its complications: cracks in the anus, hemorrhoids, the formation of coprolites (stones), rectal prolapse, perforation and peritonitis.In addition, chronic constipation is a risk factor for the development of colorectal cancer, which is the leader in cancer incidence in St. Petersburg. Colorectal cancer is diagnosed only in 5% of cases at 2 stages, in 95% of cases it is detected at 3-4 stages, which is why the mortality rate is so high. Risk factors for developing colon cancer include poor nutrition, malnutrition of vegetables and fruits, weight gain, bad habits, and even the abuse of laxatives.It has been proven that taking certain medications can slow down the bowel function, so a dose adjustment of medications is always required.
Regular constipation is not just a harmless symptom. Bradiesteria is a slowdown in the rhythm of the intestine, leading to constipation, 2.7 times increases the risk of obesity, 2.3 times more often leads to dissatisfaction with one’s well-being in comparison with the normal rhythm of the intestine. Thus, irregular and untimely cleansing of the body contributes to the development of various diseases, therefore, you should always regulate the work of the intestines.You need to rely not on enemas and laxatives, but on vegetables and fruits, since plant fiber always helps to avoid constipation.
How can you accustom yourself to morning chair? After getting out of bed, drink a glass of water at room temperature, and at night – a cup of kefir. Try oatmeal for breakfast. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day – tea, juice, mineral water. Normally, the contents of the large intestine are 78% water. If the amount of fluid in the intestine decreases to 50%, then the movement of feces becomes difficult, and if the amount of fluid in the intestine decreases to 20%, then it may stop altogether.
Move more! This also helps your bowel function, but remember not to exercise before you have a bowel movement. Stop senna medications if you are taking them. Remember that regular bowel movements are an indicator of your body’s health.
What is constipation – EMC
Constipation is one of the most common complaints in many people, and doctors have noted an increase in the number of people complaining of poor bowel movements in recent decades. However, patients rarely go to a doctor with this problem, often feeling embarrassed or believing that constipation is not a disease and treatment can be prescribed for themselves.
In the general population, the frequency of bowel movements once a day is considered normal. However, only a few have this frequency of bowel movements, and three quarters have a regular bowel movement once every two days. This leads to the fact that some perfectly healthy people, in the absence of daily stool, without any reason, are treated for constipation, abusing laxatives.
The fact is that the frequency of bowel movements (defecation – bowel movement) in healthy people is different.A single daily bowel movement is not a strictly mandatory sign of normal bowel activity. Currently, it is considered normal to have a stool frequency from 3 times a day to 3 times a week.
Constipation is diagnosed if at least two of the following symptoms are present:
- there is a need for straining
- chair hard or lumpy
- sensation of incomplete bowel movement
- Need for help during bowel movements with hands or accessories
- Less than two bowel movements per week
When establishing a diagnosis, it is necessary to take into account the individual frequency of bowel movements; for people who are accustomed to emptying their bowels daily, a 48-hour delay should be considered as constipation.Constipation is characterized by a small amount of feces, its increased hardness and dryness, the absence of a feeling of complete emptying of the intestines. Constipated patients have all of these symptoms, but some of them may be absent. The presence of even one of the listed symptoms indicates constipation. A change in the frequency and rhythm of bowel movements that are familiar to a given person is also an important sign of constipation.
The causes of constipation are very diverse, and the examination of the patient is very individual: for someone it is enough to change the eating behavior and motor regime, while someone needs a thorough study of the endocrine system and other tests.
There are contraindications. Read the instructions or consult a specialist.
Rules for preparing for endoscopic examinations
Date: 31.07.2019
Rules of preparation for FGDS
FGDS (fibrogastroduodenoscopy) is an instrumental method for studying the initial sections of the digestive tract: the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
2 days before the date of the upcoming study IT IS RECOMMENDED TO EXCLUDE from the daily diet of seeds, nuts, alcohol, as well as foods that can cause intestinal distention (fresh vegetables and fruits, sauerkraut, legumes, etc.).
In the evening before the upcoming study, it is recommended to exclude food intake after 18.00. Dinner should consist of easily digestible food.
On the day of the study breakfast is EXCLUDED. If the study is scheduled for the afternoon, it is highly undesirable to take any food.
IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED to smoke, to take any medicine in tablets / capsules inside unless absolutely necessary in the morning before the examination.
On the day of the study IT IS ALLOWED to brush your teeth, drink water and a weak hour with sugar 2-4 hours before the EGDS (without bread, cookies, sweets, etc.)take medications that can be absorbed in the mouth or sprayed.
WARNING! Do not forget to remove dentures before examining. Free the head and neck area as much as possible from clothing and accessories: take off your glasses and tie, unbutton the collar on your shirt.
If you have an ALLERGY to any medication, WARN before starting the study.
Bring your regular medications with you so that you can take them after the examination, as well as the results of previous endoscopic examinations, if any.The latter will help the doctor assess the dynamics of the disease.
* There are contraindications. Consultation of a specialist is required.
Rules of preparation for FGDS.pdf
Colonoscopy preparation rules
Colonoscopy is an instrumental examination method used to diagnose pathological conditions of the colon and rectum.
Preparation begins 3 DAYS BEFORE THE STUDY with a slag-free diet and bowel cleansing on the eve of the study.Remember that the right preparation has a direct impact on the quality of the research.
General preparation rules:
- first day of preparation – 3 days before the study: no slag diet
- Second day of preparation – 2 days before the study: no slag diet
- the third day of preparation – 1 day before the examination (on the eve of endoscopy): liquids + Fortrans * + Espumisan **
- research day: Fortrans * + Espumisan **.
PRINCIPLES OF A SLAG-FREE DIET while preparing for colonoscopy:
EXCLUDED FROM DIET:
- flour products and cereals: all grain-containing products (whole grains, products containing crushed grains, nuts, poppy seeds, coconut, etc.), black bread, legumes, peas, lentils and other cereals not included in the list of permitted
- vegetables, fruits: all fresh and dried vegetables and fruits, cabbage in any form (both fresh and heat-treated), raisins and berries, especially with small seeds, all varieties of greens
- soups: cabbage soup and borscht, milk soups, cream soups, okroshka
- meat, fish: fatty varieties of fish and meat, duck, goose, sausages, sausages
- dairy products: yoghurt containing toppings, pudding, cream, sour cream, ice cream, full-fat cottage cheese
- seasonings and canned food: hot seasonings (horseradish, pepper, mustard, onion, vinegar, garlic), as well as all seasonings (sauces) with grains, herbs, pickles, canned food, pickled and pickled mushrooms, seaweed
- drinks: alcoholic drinks, kvass, carbonated water, prune drinks
ALLOWED TO USE:
- flour products and rice: cereals (rice, oatmeal), plain crackers (without additives), noodles and noodles made from premium flour
- meat: soups based on low-fat meat broth; various, well-prepared dishes from lean beef, veal; boiled chickens, also in the form of cutlets, meatballs, soufflé; egg
- fish: dishes from cod, pike perch, perch, pike (low-fat types of fish)
- dairy products: calcium-rich foods (low-fat cottage cheese, cheeses), natural yogurt (no additives), no more than two glasses of skim milk
- vegetables: vegetable broths, potatoes (without peel)
- fruits and drinks: weak tea, compotes, jelly and juice, preferably transparent (without pulp, dried fruits, berries and grains)
- sweet: sugar, honey
On the 1st day of preparation (3 days before the study), food may contain pureed vegetables (beets and carrots), fish, liver pate, meat (boiled chicken, boiled lean meat); on the next day of preparation, vegetables should be excluded from any kind.
DURING THE DAY BEFORE THE STUDY (taking into account the time for which the study is scheduled) IT IS NECESSARY TO REMOVE FOOD COMPLETELY. In the morning, you can take no more than 200 ml of kefir. Then use only water or weak tea. Stop taking any liquid 2 hours before the study; if the study is carried out under anesthesia, then fluid intake should be stopped at least 3-4 hours in advance.
INTESTINAL CLEANING is recommended to be carried out using FORTRANS
DAY BEFORE THE STUDY (3rd DAY OF PREPARATION):
- 18: 00-20: 00 – “Fortrans” * 2 liters: Dissolve 1 sachet of the drug in 1 liter of water (DO NOT reduce the amount of liquid!).Drink the solution gradually: 1 liter for 1 hour (250 ml every 15 minutes). About 1 hour after you start taking the solution, painless loose stools will appear. Emptying of the intestine will end with the release of a clear or slightly colored liquid 2-3 hours after taking the last dose of Fortrans * solution.
- 19:00 – “Espumisan” ** 30 ml (can be washed down with water).
DAY TO STUDY:
- 05: 30-07: 30 – “Fortrans” * 2 liters: Dissolve 1 sachet of the drug in 1 liter of water (DO NOT reduce the amount of liquid!).Drink the solution gradually (1 liter for 1 hour, 250 ml every 15 minutes). About 1 hour after you start taking the solution, painless loose stools will appear. Emptying of the intestine will end with the release of a clear or slightly colored liquid 2-3 hours after taking the last dose of Fortrans * solution.
- 06:00 – “Espumisan” ** 50 ml (can be washed down with water).
WARNING! The time of the study during preparation in this mode is 11: 00-15: 30.Only when the study time is 14: 00-15: 30 is it allowed to shift the morning intake of drugs by 30-60 minutes: 06: 00-08: 00 or 06: 30-08: 30. In any case, it is necessary to stop taking the drug “Fortrans” * 3-4 hours before the study.
It is FORBIDDEN to eat on the day of the study! Allowed only to take permanent drugs (to control blood pressure, blood sugar, etc.).
If you are allergic to any drugs, MUST tell your doctor.
Colonoscopy preparation rules.pdf
Rules for preparing for video endoscopy
Capsule endoscopy is a modern method of examining the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, which allows visualizing areas of the intestine that are inaccessible to traditional methods of gastro- and colonoscopy, three sections of the small intestine: duodenum, jejunum and ileum. The capsule has the size of a large vitamin (11mm x 24mm).
Preparation begins 3 DAYS BEFORE THE STUDY with a slag-free diet and bowel cleansing on the eve of the study.Remember that the right preparation has a direct impact on the quality of the research.
General preparation rules:
- first day of preparation – 3 days before the study: no slag diet
- Second day of preparation – 2 days before the study: no slag diet
- The third day of preparation – 1 day before the examination (on the eve of video endoscopy): breakfast + liquids during the day + Fortrans * + Espumisan **
- research day: “Espumisan” **.
SLAG-FREE DIET PRINCIPLES follow these guidelines in preparation for colonoscopy.
THE DAY BEFORE THE CAPSULE VIDEO ENDOSCOPY (on the eve of the study) You can have breakfast, and then, during the day, consume only liquids (clear broth, green tea, clear juices, jelly without berries, still water).
Colon cleaning is recommended using FORTRANS * according to the scheme:
15:00 – “Fortrans” * 3-4 liters: 1 package of the drug must be dissolved in 1 liter of water.The amount of solution for one patient is taken at the rate of 1 liter per 15 – 20 kg of body weight. On the eve of capsule endoscopy, starting at 15-00, at a rate of about 1 glass per hour. the solution is drunk in fractional parts. About 1 hour after you start taking the solution, painless loose stools will appear. Emptying of the intestine will end with the release of a clear or slightly colored liquid 2 – 3 hours after taking the last dose of Fortrans solution *.
22:00 – “Espumisan” ** 50 ml.
ON THE DAY OF THE STUDY BY THE CAPSULE VIDEOENDOSCOPY METHOD, it is prohibited to eat any food.
07:00 – “Espumisan” ** 50 ml
The time of the study when preparing in this mode 08:30 – 09:00 (the time and methods of preparation for the study can be adjusted by the attending physician).
Dress code: top and bottom must be separated (for example, shirt and trousers, blouse and skirt).
DURING THE STUDY , especially during the first three hours, it is necessary to move (passive behavior contributes to the slow movement of the video capsule along the gastrointestinal tract) and to make breathing movements with the abdomen – lifting the anterior abdominal wall – every 10-15 minutes for 1-2 minutes.Avoid strong electromagnetic fields and treat the recorder with care. Avoid jerking or bumping the
recorder
AFTER THE EXAMINATION It is necessary to return to the clinic to remove the equipment and give the device to the doctor.
Rules for preparing for video endoscopy.pdf
Features of preparing children for endoscopic examinations
- Try to explain to your child the importance of the examination.
- Calm down the child in a calm voice, try to make a story in the form of a fairy tale, so that the child has a playful character of the procedure in his head.
- Avoid food 8-9 hours prior to endoscopy.
- Take a change of clothes for the child, as well as dry, wet wipes, a toy.
- If EGD is necessary, try to rehearse the correct breathing technique with a small patient: the baby should breathe through his nose, slowly, evenly.
- If necessary, the study can be performed under general anesthesia.
FOR PREPARING CHILDREN FOR RECTOROMANOSCOPY / COLONOSCOPY
- Follow the principles of a non-slag diet for 3 days
- On the eve of the study, in the morning and in the evening, a hypertensive enema is performed with a solution of NaCl-10% -150 ml (a heaped tablespoon of coarse salt in a glass of water). In the morning, afternoon and evening, consume one tablespoon of castor oil.
- On the day of the study, in the morning at home, one hypertensive enema is performed with a solution of NaCl-10% -150 ml and 30 minutes before the study, a second hypertensive enema with a solution of NaCl-10% -150 ml.
WARNING! CHILDREN UNDER 3 YEARS OF AGE USE 5% NACL SOLUTION FOR ELEMAS.
From the age of 9 preparation for sigmoidoscopy / colonoscopy can be carried out using the drug “PIKOPREP” ***. The contents of one packet should be diluted in a glass of room temperature water (about 150 ml), stirred for 2-3 minutes and the resulting mixture should be drunk.If the solution has become hot, you must wait until it has cooled down to a temperature suitable for drinking.
The drug is taken in the evening the day before the procedure (one packet), repeated in 6-8 hours (one packet).
From the age of 15, preparation for colonoscopy corresponds to that in adults using FORTRANS *.
Rules for preparing children for endoscopic examinations (sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy) .pdf
Rules for preparation for bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic study that requires some preparation.
- The study is carried out on an empty stomach, the last meal on the eve at 18.00.
- A mild sedative, such as valerian, can be taken to relieve stress on the evening before the test.
- Smoking on the day of the study is highly undesirable.
It is necessary to have a conclusion of a pulmonologist indicating the purpose of fiberoptic bronchoscopy, chest x-ray or CT scan of the chest organs, blood tests for HIV and viral hepatitis. - Patients over 40 years of age must have ECG data (no more than a week old).
- We would like to draw your attention to the fact that the study is carried out under local anesthesia, which lasts for 1 hour. In this regard, it is better not to drive a car immediately after bronchoscopy, therefore, immediately after the study, you cannot drive a car.
Bronchoscopy is performed in the Eucalyptus family medicine clinic without and under general anesthesia.For bronchoscopy without anesthesia, you need a certificate from a therapist stating that the patient is somatically healthy. Such a certificate can be obtained from our therapist on the day of treatment.
* Fortrans – There are contraindications. Before use, please read the instructions for the preparation. For more information, contact your doctor. Information on the drug is provided in accordance with clause 4 of Art. 74 of the Federal Law “On the Basics of Health Protection of Citizens in the Russian Federation” to inform the patient about the availability of similar drugs in circulation.
** “Espumisan” – There are contraindications. Before use, please read the instructions for the preparation. For more information, contact your doctor. Information on the drug is provided in accordance with clause 4 of Art. 74 of the Federal Law “On the Basics of Health Protection of Citizens in the Russian Federation” to inform the patient about the availability of similar drugs in circulation.
*** “Pikoprep” – There are contraindications. Before use, please read the instructions for the preparation.For more information, contact your doctor. Information on the drug is provided in accordance with clause 4 of Art. 74 of the Federal Law “On the Basics of Health Protection of Citizens in the Russian Federation” to inform the patient about the availability of similar drugs in circulation.
**** There are contraindications. Consultation of a specialist is required.
***** This manipulation is performed in the direction of a doctor
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90,000 Preoperative preparation of gynecological patients.
Preoperative preparation of gynecological patients.
Preparation of the gastrointestinal tract. The patient’s gastrointestinal tract must be cleaned before surgery. Bloating of the stomach and intestines, filled with gases and contents, after surgery impairs the blood supply to these organs, which contributes to the development of infection in the intestine with its penetration beyond the intestinal wall, and due to increased pressure, it can disrupt the seams on the abdominal organs after surgery.In addition, bloating of the stomach and intestines dramatically impairs the function of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, which in turn impairs the blood supply to the abdominal organs. During operations on these organs, the contents of the hollow organs of the abdomen can enter the free abdominal cavity, causing inflammation of the peritoneum (peritonitis). When food residues of a thick consistency and mucus accumulate, the stomach is washed – instead of a syringe, a large glass funnel is put on the end of the probe.
A cleansing enema is usually used to cleanse the lower intestines.A single enema or even two enemas (at night and in the morning) cannot effectively cleanse the intestines in a patient with chronic stool retention, therefore one of the main tasks of the preoperative period is to achieve a daily independent stool in the patient. This is especially necessary for patients with a tendency to accumulate gases (flatulence) and suffering from chronic constipation. A proper diet can help to normalize bowel movements.
Skin preparation. Microorganisms accumulate in the pores and folds of the skin, the entry of which into the wound should be excluded.This is the meaning of preparation for the operation of the patient’s skin. Moreover, contaminated skin after surgery can become a site for the development of purulent inflammatory diseases, that is, a source of infection for the whole body.
On the eve of the operation, the patient washes (shower), her linen is changed. Especially thoroughly it is necessary to wash the places of accumulation of sweat and dirt (armpits, perineum, neck, feet, navel and all skin folds, very deep in obese patients). The nail polish must be washed off.
The presence of pustular or other inflammatory skin lesions in the area of the operating field is a contraindication to surgical treatment.
Preparation of the operating field. The surgical site is the area of skin that will undergo surgery (incision) during surgery. Correct preparation of the operating field significantly reduces the number of microorganisms entering the operating wound.
Shaving the hair of the surgical field is not performed in the evening on the eve of the operation, because the resulting minor scratches can become inflamed in the morning, making it impossible to carry out the operation.
A reusable razor with a removable blade is disinfected before use or the patient provides a disposable razor
Transport the patient to the operating room.The patient should spend the day before the operation in an atmosphere of complete mental and physical rest. In the morning, she can get out of bed, brush her teeth, wash her face and hands, shave and visit the toilet. In the morning, hair is removed from the operating field (shaved). Returning to the ward, the patient should go to bed and not be active either in conversations or in movements. Later, at about 8-30 o’clock in the morning, she is given injections: drugs are injected that prepare him for anesthesia (sedatives, drugs, etc.).This preparation is called premedication. After this, the patient must observe absolute rest and bed rest. The room should be quiet.
The patient must urinate before being transported to the operating room. When preparing some patients for surgery, it is useful to develop their urination skills while lying in bed, which will then alleviate the forced need to urinate while lying down after surgery, and will save many from the repeated insertion of a catheter into the bladder – an unpleasant and serious event in terms of possible infectious lesions of the urinary system.
Long hair on women should be braided, tied neatly over the head and tied with a gauze headscarf. Watches, rings and other jewelry should be removed. Removable dentures are left in the ward.
For surgical treatment, the patient is delivered on a gurney in a supine position. It is unacceptable to transport a patient without a pillow, with his head suspended. It must be remembered that before the operation, she experiences a strong emotional stress, so she must constantly feel the care and helpfulness of the medical staff.Before being transported to the operating room, it should be ensured that the operating and anesthesia personnel are ready to receive it. tables should be. Transportation of the patient lying down is explained by the need to protect her from dangerous reactions of the circulatory system to changes in body position, which are possible after premedication. The patient is transported smoothly, at a moderate speed, without hitting the gurney on objects in the corridor and doors.
Having brought the patient to the operating table, the nurse helps her and puts her on the operating table in accordance with the instructions of the anesthesiologist or surgeon, covers the patient with a sterile sheet.
If the patient is hearing impaired, the hearing aid will be handed over to the anesthesia team as it will be needed for contact.
Preparing patients for emergency operations.
The condition of patients requiring emergency surgery is usually severe. Therefore, their preparation has a number of features: the more severe the condition, the shorter the preparation. Peripheral vein catheterization is performed as quickly as possible and drug infusion is started. The collection of tests is mandatory: blood for general analysis, microreaction, blood type is determined.
After the decision on the need for surgery is made, preoperative preparation is carried out in parallel with the continuation of the examination of the patient by the operating doctor and anesthesiologist. So, the preparation of the oral cavity is limited to rinsing or wiping. Enema is rarely used.
The hygienic water procedure is carried out in an abbreviated form – shower or washing. However, the preparation of the operating field is carried out in full. If you have to prepare a patient who has come from production or from the street, with heavily contaminated skin, the preparation of the patient’s skin begins with mechanical cleaning of the operating field, which in these cases should be at least 2 times larger than the intended incision.After cleaning the skin, the hair is shaved and further preparation of the operating field is carried out.
Prevention of thromboembolic complications in the postoperative period includes nonspecific measures and specific prophylaxis. Non-specific prophylaxis includes:
• early activation;
• bandaging the shins immediately before the operation with elastic bandages or compression garments.
Specific prophylaxis is carried out for patients with obesity, varicose veins, chronic thrombophlebitis, cardiovascular pathology.Prophylaxis begins 2 hours before the operation and includes the use of heparin and its low molecular weight derivatives (fraxeparin, clexane, etc.), in the postoperative period, the administration of these drugs lasts 6-7 days.
Nursing care after gynecological abdominal surgery.
On the eve of the department, they prepare the ward, carry out wet cleaning, ventilate and quartz the ward. In the first 3-4 hours, the patient is in a supine position without a pillow. Sometimes an ice pack is placed on the area of the wound.After the operation, the patient feels thirsty. In the first hours of the postoperative period, the lips and oral cavity are moistened with a damp swab. In the absence of nausea and vomiting, it is allowed to drink at first in small sips, and from the next day – without restrictions. Eating on the day of surgery is prohibited. The next day after the operation, broth and crackers are prescribed. On the third day, mashed food, and from the fourth day on the table is normal. Currently, an active method of postoperative management is used. This method gives a positive psychological effect, promotes faster recovery of bowel and bladder function, and prevents complications from the respiratory system.Already on the day of the operation, after full awakening, active movements in bed are allowed, and in endoscopic operations, it is allowed to get out of bed by the evening of the day of the operation. The next day, the instructor of exercise therapy conducts breathing exercises. In the first days, all postoperative patients have a decrease in intestinal muscle tone, which does not require therapeutic measures. With a deeper and more prolonged decrease in intestinal tone, a serious complication occurs – intestinal paresis. Symptoms of paresis are bloating, nausea, belching with air, gas retention, lack of intestinal motility.By the end of the second day, the patient should have peristalsis and gases. To do this, the next day after the operation, Proserin injections, cleansing enemas are prescribed. Bed and underwear is changed daily for bedridden patients.
Postoperative wound care is carried out by changing the dressing after 2-3 days (in the absence of impregnation). With proper healing of the postoperative wound, the sutures are removed 7-8 days after surgery
Nursing after vaginal surgery.
The postoperative period with vaginal operations is easier than with celiac disease.If there are tampons in the vagina, they are removed as directed by the doctor. Immediately after the operation, cold is prescribed to the perineal area. Sterile pads are changed after 3-4 hours. The patient is allowed to drink. Meals begin the day after surgery. Food should be high in calories, but not conducive to the formation of solid feces (liquid, without a large amount of vegetable fiber). Stool retention is carried out with the help of appropriate preparation for the operation (the intestines are thoroughly cleansed).The peculiarities of patient care after gynecological operations are largely due to the anatomical proximity of the female genital organs to the urinary organs, rectum and anus.
Toilet of the external genital organs, both before and after surgery, is carried out 2 times a day using disinfectant solutions (furacilin 1: 5000, etc.). A vessel is placed under the patient’s buttocks and a cotton swab captured by a forceps is placed, the external genitals are washed from top to bottom, and then dried with a dry swab.Patients who are allowed to walk carry out the toilet of the external genital organs themselves in the hygiene room. According to indications (the presence of sutures in the vagina or pathological discharge), douching of the vagina is performed or medicinal vaginal baths are used. The sutures in the vagina and on the perineum are examined as necessary and treated with solutions of hydrogen peroxide, dioxidine, brilliant green, or other disinfectants.
Forced bedding aggravates postoperative urinary difficulty.To accelerate the recovery of urination and prevent the adverse effects of physical inactivity, it is necessary to get up early in patients – 48 hours after vaginal surgery. It is necessary to teach patients how to get out of bed correctly (first, turning on their stomach). The features of restoring bowel function depend on the type of surgery. In most cases, the intestines are released on the 4th day with a cleansing enema.
Patients who have undergone surgery for purulent inflammatory processes in the uterine appendages, pelvioperitonitis, bartholinitis should be provided with wound care and the functioning of drainages.
Memo to a patient with glaucoma.
Glaucoma is an eye disease characterized by increased pressure inside the eye, trophic disorders in the optic nerve, retina, leading to decreased visual acuity.
The correct lifestyle is essential for the successful treatment of glaucoma. First of all, it is necessary to regulate sleep. A patient with glaucoma should sleep at least 8 hours a day, while sleep should be calm and deep. It is not recommended to eat before going to bed, you should ventilate the room well, take a walk in the fresh air, sleep only on high pillows, since a low head position during sleep can cause an increase in intraocular pressure.In the morning after sleep, you need to immediately get out of bed, because in the morning hours intraocular pressure is highest, and wakefulness, movements and vertical position of the body contribute to its decrease. With insomnia, prolonged exposure to darkness can cause increased intraocular pressure. In these cases, it is advisable to take sleeping pills as directed by a doctor. You can watch TV only in a lighted room, while the light source should be behind your back. Glaucoma patients involved in photography are not recommended to develop and print photographs due to the need for a long stay in the dark.
It is not advisable to wear dark sunglasses, as thick smoky glasses create semi-darkness and can increase intraocular pressure. Special green glasses have a beneficial effect on intraocular pressure. For the same reason, it is recommended to use green lampshades on table lamps.
Moments causing rush of blood to the head should be avoided. Therefore, the work associated with bending the body (weeding the beds, washing and scrubbing the floors, washing clothes, chopping wood, etc.)lifting weights and straining (working as a loader, playing wind instruments) is harmful. Light physical work is useful, as it helps to reduce intraocular pressure. Useful morning and evening leisurely walks in the fresh air, morning physical exercises, playing table tennis, cycling.
Reading, embroidery, drawing and other work at close range are not contraindicated in patients with glaucoma. It should be remembered that poor lighting and fatigue can cause the opposite phenomenon – an increase in intraocular pressure.
In the summer, on sunny days, you must not walk with your head uncovered or take sun baths. You can stay on the beach until 10 am and after 6 pm. Prolonged stay in the bath, especially washing the head with hot water in an inclined position, increases intraocular pressure. It is not recommended to stay near a hot stove for a long time, as well as to wear clothes with tight collars.
Patients are contraindicated for smoking tobacco, ingestion and injections of atropine, belladonna powders and caffeine.This should be borne in mind when referring to doctors of other specialties. They need to be informed about their illness.
Long food breaks are not recommended. You should eat at least four times a day, spreading the food intake evenly throughout the day. The last meal should be no later than two hours before bedtime. It is necessary to exclude from the diet foods and drinks that stimulate the nervous system: natural coffee, strong tea, smoked meats, fried meat, pickles. The use of alcoholic beverages is completely contraindicated.Meat can be eaten 3-4 times a week, boiled or baked.
Recommended list of foods and meals in the diet of patients with glaucoma:
Wheat and rye bread.
Vegetarian vegetable soups.
Low-fat beef, veal, chicken, rabbit (boiled).
Low-fat types of fish: pike, carp, pike perch, cod, navaga (boiled).
Various dishes and side dishes from vegetables.
Dishes and side dishes, from cereals, pasta, noodles, noodles.
Sweet dishes, fruits, berries in all kinds.
Milk, kefir, yogurt, cottage cheese.
Vegetable butter (ghee is limited).
Sauces with milk, vegetable broth, fruit.
Abundant fluid intake increases the intraocular pressure of patients with glaucoma, so they should limit fluid intake to 1.5 liters per day. Drinking more than one glass at a time is not recommended.
Daily bowel movement without significant straining is a prerequisite for a patient with glaucoma.Stool retention is the cause of chronic poisoning of the body by metabolic products from the intestines. If, despite adherence to the diet, the patient suffers from constipation, you should contact the appropriate specialist.
With a favorable course of glaucoma, subjective sensations do not bother the patient and it may seem that he is completely healthy. Despite this, you should visit your doctor once every 2-3 months. At the first unpleasant sensations (vision of “fog” or rainbow circles, slight pain in the eye or brow region, etc.) it is necessary, without waiting for the period appointed by the doctor, to contact him for an extraordinary examination.
When moving to another city or another area of the city, you should take an extract from the outpatient card with information about your disease and treatment. At the new place of residence, you must go to the ophthalmologist with this statement and register with the dispensary.
Important to remember! It is necessary to strictly follow the regimen recommended by the doctor, and not change it at your own discretion.The prescribed treatment should be carried out systematically and without gaps, drops should be instilled at a strictly defined time. Timely started and correctly carried out treatment, as well as strict adherence to the recommended regimen, allow you to preserve vision for many years.
Laxatives – O Bowel health
If a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition do not help to restore normal bowel function, you can resort to laxatives 1 , available in pharmacies without a prescription, but only after consulting a doctor.
The pharmacist at the pharmacy will be able to advise you on a laxative according to your situation, taking into account your medical condition and any concomitant treatment.
There are several classes of laxatives , which differ in their mechanism of action. Osmotic laxatives, bulk laxatives, and emollient laxatives are best suited for daily use. If symptoms persist with treatment for a week, see your doctor.
Osmotic laxatives
Mechanism of action of osmotic laxatives | Onset of action of osmotic laxatives | Precautions when using osmotic laxatives | Examples of osmotic laxatives |
---|---|---|---|
Osmotic laxatives soften stool by drawing water into the intestinal lumen. Thus, the stool takes on a normal consistency | After 1-2 days | The effectiveness of treatment depends on the exact adherence to the dosage and the duration of treatment. Bloating and abdominal pain may occur at the start of treatment, much less frequently with PEG than with other osmotic laxatives. | > polyethylene glycol (PEG) or macrogol > sugars and polyols (lactulose, lactitol, mannitol, sorbitol) > pentaerythritol |
Laxatives, increasing intestinal volume
Mechanism of action of laxatives that increase the volume of intestinal contents | Onset of action of laxatives that increase intestinal volume | After 1-3 days Maximum efficacy is achieved after several days of treatment. | Examples of laxatives that increase intestinal volume |
---|---|---|---|
Bulking laxatives containing fibers and colloids swell on contact with water, increase the volume of stool and soften it, thus facilitating bowel movement. | After 1-3 days Maximum efficacy is achieved after several days of treatment. | Drink plenty of water during treatment. Take bulk laxatives separately from other medications. | > wheat bran, carrageenates, guar gum, sterculia gum, plantain > calcium polycarbophil |
Emollient laxatives
Mechanism of action of emollient laxatives | Onset of action of emollient laxatives | Precautions for the use of emollients | Examples of emollient laxatives |
---|---|---|---|
These laxatives facilitate the movement of stool through the intestines by lubricating the intestinal walls. | 6 to 72 hours | Softening laxatives should not be taken immediately before bedtime. Do not use them if you are on bed rest. Emollient laxatives may cause leaky bowel movements and irritation of the anus. | > paraffin > petroleum jelly |
Other laxatives
Rectal laxatives
Mechanism of action of rectal laxatives | Onset of action of rectal laxatives | Precautions when using rectal laxatives | Examples of rectal laxatives |
---|---|---|---|
Rectal laxatives in the form of suppositories, enemas or rectal gel, which are used for difficult bowel movements, stimulate the reflex to defecate (excretion of feces). | From 5 to 60 minutes | Repeated or prolonged use of rectal laxatives is not recommended due to the risk of irritation of the anus. Cannot be used if there is damage to the anus (hemorrhoids, anal fissures, etc.) | > gassing suppositories > glycerin > bovine bile > sodium docusate > sorbitol |
Stimulant laxatives
Mechanism of action of stimulant laxatives | Onset of action of stimulant laxatives | Precautions for using stimulant laxatives | Examples of stimulant laxatives |
---|---|---|---|
Stimulant laxatives stimulate the intestinal wall, increase intestinal motility and water secretion, helping to evacuate stool. | After 6 hours | Stimulant laxatives may cause lack of stool for one to several days after treatment. Do not reapply or increase the dose. Taking into account the mechanism of action, side effects (the risk of drug dependence with intestinal damage and hypokalemia – a decrease in the level of potassium in the blood), as well as possible interactions with numerous drugs (in particular diuretics or drugs for the treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular system) that stimulate laxatives can only be used to treat episodic constipation if other treatments have failed and only for a very short time. Contraindicated in pregnancy. | > castor oil > magnesium salts > sodium docusate > sodium picosulfate > bisacodyl > laxatives containing anthraquinones (senna, buckthorn, etc. |