Constipation

Constipation is difficult or infrequent bowel movements. It is a very common symptom and usually has more than one cause.

What to look for:

• No bowel movement in the past three days
• Bloating of the abdomen
• Pressure or a sense of fullness in the rectum
• Seepage of loose stool
• Rectal pain with a bowel movement
• Vomiting or nausea

What to do:

• Add high fiber foods to diet, such as whole grain cereals or bread, dried fruits, prunes and raisins, popcorn, nuts and seeds, beans and peas, raw fruits and vegetables
• Sprinkle unprocessed bran on food
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Drink hot or warm liquids
• Be as active as possible
• Follow bowel control plan suggested by your nurse
• Establish a time for bowel movements. For example, sit on the commode after breakfast daily. After a while the body will adjust and begin regular bowel movements. Bowel movements and constipation are side effects of many medications and the doctor and nurse will provide a bowel regime.
• Take prescribed medications

When to call hospice:

• No bowel movement in three days
• Persistent cramps or vomiting
• Severe straining on the toilet
• Blood in the stool or around the anal area