Constipation in seniors- Symptoms, Causes and prevention

Constipation, often considered a minor inconvenience, is more than just a passing discomfort, especially for seniors. It's not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom that can point to underlying health concerns. While it's generally not a severe issue, it can significantly affect the quality of life for older individuals.

Symptoms of Constipation in seniors:

Dry, Hard, and Lumpy Stools

Constipation is often characterized by difficult-to-pass, dry, and lumpy stools.

Pain and Strain

Seniors may experience pain and difficulty during bowel movements, which can be distressing.

Feeling Blocked

 It's common for seniors to feel like there's a blockage in the rectum, hindering bowel movements.

Infrequent Bowel Movements

 Having fewer than three bowel movements a week is a common sign of constipation among seniors.

Other symptoms may include bloating, abdominal discomfort, and a general feeling of unease.

Common Causes of Constipation in Seniors:

Low-Fiber Diet

 A diet low in fiber can contribute to constipation, a common dietary issue among older individuals.

Sedentary Lifestyle

 Lack of physical activity can slow down bowel movements and lead to constipation.

Dehydration

 Seniors are prone to dehydration, which can affect bowel function.

Stress:

Psychological factors, such as stress, can impact bowel regularity.

Lethargy

 Feeling lethargic or unmotivated to engage in physical activities, including bowel movements, can contribute to constipation.

Medication

 Many medications commonly prescribed to seniors, such as opioids, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and certain antidepressants, can cause constipation as a side effect.

Underlying Health Condition

Chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, Parkinson's disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can affect bowel function and lead to constipation.

Neurological Conditions

 Conditions that affect the nerves controlling bowel movements, such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries, can result in constipation.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes, particularly in women after menopause, can contribute to constipation.

How Often Should Seniors Have Bowel Movements?

• Seniors' bowel habits can vary widely due to differences in metabolism and dietary preferences.

• Typically, normal bowel movements range from as few as three times a week to as many as three times a day. If your senior loved one's bowel habits suddenly change, especially if accompanied by pain or other symptoms of constipation, it's essential to consult a doctor.

Prevention and Treatment:

While occasional constipation is common and can often be resolved with lifestyle changes like consuming fiber-rich foods and increasing physical activity persistent constipation lasting more than a week or accompanied by severe pain and bleeding in stools requires immediate medical attention. These symptoms may indicate underlying health issues that need prompt evaluation and treatment. Elder care service providers in Kolkata offer doctor's assistance services and home-based pathology services for seniors, ensuring their well-being.

In conclusion, constipation is a common concern among seniors, but it's essential to address it with diligence and care. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular communication with healthcare providers can help seniors lead happy and healthy lives.