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CONSTIPATION

Constipation is the difficulty to defecate; the elimination of hard, dry or a reduced amount of faeces; or a reduced frequency of defecation.

The normal bowel habit varies significantly from one person to the Siguiente, even though a frequency between three daily and three weekly defecations in the general population
may be regarded as normal; in young people, five or more weekly defecations. It is a common symptom and rarely a serious medical problem.

Even though there are numerous causes, the lack of vegetables in the diet, with a reduced liquid intake is the most frequent cause. It may be due to some medication (such as antacids, anti diarrhoea, etc.).

The treatment for common chronic constipation (long standing without weight loss or associated symptoms) is based on acquiring adequate habits:

1. High fibre diet, with abundant fruit (oranges, plums, etc.), greens, legumes, cereals and wholemeal flour (wholemeal bread is convenient).
2. Restrict cow milk and derivatives, sweet liquids and astringent foods (rice, carrots, bananas, apples, etc.).
3. Drink plenty of fluids: water (at least two litres a day) and juices. It is useful to drink without having eaten.
4. Do not restrain the need to defecate.
5. Create a "bowel habit" by getting used to defecate at the same time, dedicating every or every other day some time to defecation, which will preferably be after waking up in the morning (before or after breakfast) or half an hour after lunch.
6. Physical exercise adequate to the person's characteristics.
7. Do not wear garments tight around the waist.

Constancy in keeping with the Anterior measures is fundamental, as constipation improvement requires time. Initially wholemeal bran may be used (three large spoonfuls a day) mixing it with water, juices, broth, etc., increasing the dose if necessary until there is regular defecation.

If the Anterior measures do not solve the problem, try a mild laxative such as lactulose
(DRAWER 2, first aid kit A) giving a spoonful in the morning and another at night.

If there is persistent constipation of recent onset or a change in bowel habits, ask for MEDICAL ADVICE VIA RADIO .