CONSTIPATION 133
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR Irritable bowel syndrome is a possible cause, especially if your constipation alternates with bouts of diarrhea. However, other causes, such as cancer of the colon, rectum, or anus, may need to be ruled out.
Do you have any of the following?
Fatigue
Increased dryness or roughness of the skin
Feeling the cold more than you used to
Unexplained weight gain
General hair thinning
None of the above
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR Hypothyroidism( underactivity of the thyroid gland, which causes many body functions to slow down) is a possibility.
Are you taking any medication?
Medication
No medication
Do any of the following apply?
You are pregnant
You have been drinking less fluid than usual
You have changed your diet
None of the above
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES Lack of fluid in the bowel as a result of an inadequate fluid intake or excessive fluid loss can cause constipation.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially if the weather is hot.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if your symptoms have not improved within 2 weeks.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you cannot identify a possible cause for your constipation from this chart.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR Your symptoms may be a side effect of the medication.
• Stop taking any overthe-counter medicines but continue to take prescribed medication unless advised to stop by your doctor.
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES Constipation is quite common in pregnancy.
• Include more fiberrich foods in your diet.
• Avoid eating too much processed food.
• Increase your daily fluid intake, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Do not ignore the urge to defecate.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if your symptoms have not improved within 2 weeks.
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES A change in your regular diet, especially when traveling, can make you constipated.
• Include more fiberrich foods in your diet.
• Avoid eating too much processed food.
• Increase your daily fluid intake.
• Do not ignore the urge to defecate.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if your symptoms have not improved within 2 weeks.