Lifestyle and dietary changes are usually recommended as initial treatment for constipation. This includes a gradual increase of daily fibre intake, drinking plenty of fluids and exercising.
High fibre foods include:
- Wholegrain breakfast cereals, whole-wheat pasta, wholegrain bread and oats, barley and rye
- Fruit such as berries, pears, melon and oranges
- Vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, potatoes and sweetcorn
- Peas, beans and pulses
Oral laxative medications such as bisacodyl (Dulcolax), senna (Senokot) and isphagula husk (Fybogel) are also available to provide relief from constipation. Laxatives are available from the pharmacy.
Constipation is usually self-limiting and the above points can ensure a return to normal bowel movements.
