MedS Aid Newsletter Oct 1st week | Page 4

Symptoms 1. 2. 3. 4. Passing of stools less than 3 times a week Experience hard and dry stools Strain during stool passing Feeling of incomplete evacuation after bowel movements 5. Need to use extra support for evacuation – finger evacuation or manipulation of lower abdomen. 6. Rectal pain 7. Blood in stool 8. Intensive abdominal pain 9. Thin pencil like stool 10. Unexplained weight loss Treatment Treat underlying disease which Diet & Lifestyle changes ? ? ? ? High fibre diet Regular exercise Adequate intake of fluids Take time for bowel movements Laxatives – indicated only when the diet & lifestyle changes ineffective ? Fibre supplements ? Stimulants ? Lubricants