Gastrointestinal Function

R.H. is a 74-year-old black woman, who presents to the family practice clinic for a scheduled appointment. She complains of feeling bloated and constipated for the past month, sometimes going an entire week with only one bowel movement. Until this episode, she has been very regular all of her life, having a bowel movement every day or every other day. She reports straining most of the time and it often takes her 10 minutes at a minimum to initiate a bowel movement. Stools have been extremely hard. She denies pain during straining. A recent colonoscopy was negative for tumors or other lesions. She has not yet taken any medications to provide relief for her constipation. Furthermore, she reports frequent heartburn (3–4 times each week), most often occurring soon after retiring to bed. She uses three pillows to keep herself in a more upright position during sleep. On a friend’s advice, she purchased a package of over-the-counter aluminum hydroxide tablets to help relieve the heartburn. She has had some improvement since she began taking the medicine. She reports using naproxen as needed for arthritic pain in her hands and knees. She states that her hands and knees are extremely stiff when she rises in the morning. Because her arthritis has been getting worse, she has stopped taking her daily walks and now gets very little exercise.

Case Study 1 Questions:

In your own words, define constipation and name the risk factors that might lead to developing constipation.
List recommendations you would give to a patient who is suffering from constipation. Include both pharmacological and non-pharmacological.
Based on the clinical manifestations in R.H.’s case study, name and explain the signs and symptoms presented that are compatible with the constipation diagnosis.
Complement your list in question 3 with other signs and symptoms of constipation not present in the case study.
Sometimes Anemia can be present as an associated diagnosis and/or a complication for patients with constipation. Would you consider that possibility based on the information provided in the case study? Explain.

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Sample Answer

 

 

Defining Constipation:

Constipation refers to difficulty passing stool, accompanied by infrequent bowel movements (less than 3 per week), hard or lumpy stools, and straining during elimination.

Risk factors for constipation:

  • Age: As we age, muscle weakness and decreased mobility can contribute to constipation.
  • Diet: Low fiber intake and inadequate fluid consumption can harden stools and make them difficult to pass.
  • Lack of exercise: Physical activity stimulates bowel movements, and inactivity can lead to constipation.
  • Certain medications: Medications like opioids, pain relievers, and antidepressants can sometimes slow down digestion and contribute to constipation.

Full Answer Section

 

 

 

  • Medical conditions: Thyroid disorders, diabetes, and neurological conditions can affect bowel function.
  • Psychological factors: Stress and anxiety can interfere with bowel movements.

Recommendations for Constipation:

Non-pharmacological:

  • Increase dietary fiber: Aim for 25-35 grams of fiber daily through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to soften stools.
  • Engage in regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
  • Establish a regular bathroom routine: Train your body to have bowel movements at a specific time each day.
  • Biofeedback: Techniques can help learn to relax muscles involved in elimination.

Pharmacological:

  • Bulk-forming laxatives: Increase stool bulk and promote softness (e.g., psyllium, methylcellulose).
  • Osmotic laxatives: Draw water into the stool to soften it (e.g., polyethylene glycol).
  • Stimulant laxatives: Stimulate muscle contractions in the colon to move stool (e.g., bisacodyl).
  • Stool softeners: Lubricate stool and make it easier to pass (e.g., docusate).

It’s important to note that medication should only be used under a doctor’s supervision.

R.H.’s Case and Constipation:

Several signs and symptoms in R.H.’s case suggest constipation:

  • Infrequent bowel movements: She reports going only once a week, compared to her usual daily or every-other-day routine.
  • Hard stools: She describes her stools as “extremely hard.”
  • Straining: She reports straining for 10 minutes to pass stool.
  • Recent change in bowel habits: The constipation is a recent development, indicating a new issue rather than her typical function.

While other factors could contribute to these symptoms, they strongly support the diagnosis of constipation. Further evaluation and management tailored to her specific needs and potential underlying causes are crucial.

Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.

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