BOPDHB Patient Resources Hip and Knee joint replacement book - June 2016 | Page 49

Normal bowel action
The normal frequency of passing bowel motions should be from
three times per day to three times per week. Bowel motions should
be formed and easy to pass.

At home

Constipation post operatively

What is constipation?
Constipation is when you have hard, dry, difficult to pass
bowel movements, or you go longer than usual between bowel
movements.
Note - A mixture of hard and runny loose bowel motions can be a
sign of severe constipation.
What causes constipation?
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Not drinking enough water.
Having too much fibre in your diet.
Limited intake of food.
Lack of exercise or mobility.
Ignoring the urge to go to the toilet.
Medications – many pain relief tablets can lead to constipation.

What are the signs and symptoms of constipation?
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Straining to pass a bowel motion.
Pain or bleeding from the rectum during your bowel movement.
A feeling that you did not empty your bowel completely.
Nausea/reduced appetite.
Stomach cramps and bloating.
Headache.

What can I do to manage my constipation?
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Increase your fluid intake to 1-2 litres a day.
Eat regular healthy meals including all the food groups.
Exercise – go for regular short walk.
Go to the toilet around ten minutes after you have eaten.
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