Healthcare professionals urged to educate patients on constipation management

04-May-2011 4 May 2011 - Experts are encouraging healthcare professionals to play a key role in educating consumers about the safety profile of laxatives as new consumer research shows there are still misconceptions about the use of laxatives to treat constipation.

Evidence shows treatment with bisacodyl (a key ingredient in some stimulant laxatives) is effective in constipation management1 but the latest Dulcolax Survey shows half the population are still concerned about the use of laxatives2.

To dispel the myths and misconceptions about constipation and its treatment, The Gut Foundation has launched a new consumer guide - “How do I manage constipation?”

The Gut Foundation President and Gastroenterologist Professor Terry Bolin says almost one in six people over the age of 30 have suffered from constipation at some stage in their life3 and there are widespread myths among healthcare professionals and consumers regarding its treatment.

“Constipation is a very manageable condition and it’s vital that heath care professionals help to educate patients about the best ways to manage constipation to minimise the impact it can have on a patient’s health and lifestyle.  We are hoping this new resource will help improve its management,” said Professor Bolin.

One key area of interest for the new resource is the role of laxatives in the treatment of constipation.

“Fibre is an important preventative measure but for people who need additional assistance in dealing with the problem, sensible use of stimulant laxatives in the recommended dose is unlikely to cause harm and can greatly improve quality of life.  We need to correct these negative misconceptions about laxatives because for many people they will play a key role,” said Professor Bolin.

“Laxatives are greatly misunderstood by healthcare professionals and patients and many of these misunderstandings prevent better constipation management”.

Consultant Dietitian Geraldine Georgiou says diet and lifestyle choices, such as increasing fibre and water intake, can play an active role in preventing constipation however it will not necessarily alleviate the symptoms of constipation.  

“It should not be assumed that a diet poor in fibre will cause constipation.  Some people may benefit from a fibre rich diet while others with more severe constipation an increased fibre intake may actually make symptoms worse,” said Ms Georgiou.

“A resource for healthcare professionals to share with consumers that is able to help clear up these common misconceptions and provide helpful advice on dealing with constipation and bloating will be very useful,” said Ms Georgiou.

Constipation can have an impact on people’s normal everyday activities with one in five people who suffer from constipation saying that it stops them from exercising and engaging in social activities such as catching up with friends and going on dates2.

Furthermore, one in three sufferers is too embarrassed to discuss constipation with their friends and families.

To access “How do I manage constipation and bloating?”  visit the Gut Foundation website http://www.gutfoundation.com.au/ or call 02 9382 2749.

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