What to do about constipation in the elderly
Nov 14, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, constipation in the elderly may be caused by factors such as lack of physical activity, changes in bowel habits, medication side effects, anxiety, and hypothyroidism. Older adults should maintain a balanced diet, increase intake of fiber-rich foods and fluids, engage in moderate exercise, and develop regular bowel habits to help prevent constipation.
In general, constipation in the elderly may be caused by factors such as lack of physical activity, changes in bowel habits, medication side effects, anxiety disorders, hypothyroidism, and others. When the above conditions occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a正规 hospital and receive treatment under a doctor's guidance through general management, medications, or other methods. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Lack of physical activity
As elderly individuals experience reduced mobility and decreased physical activity, intestinal motility may weaken, potentially leading to constipation. It is important in daily life to encourage older adults to engage in moderate exercise, such as walking or tai chi, to promote intestinal movement.
2. Changes in bowel habits
Changes in living environment or irregular sleep schedules may disrupt normal bowel habits and lead to irregular defecation, contributing to constipation in the elderly. It is advisable to establish consistent bowel routines, choose appropriate times for defecation, and avoid ignoring the urge to pass stool.
3. Medication side effects
Long-term use of certain medications—such as antidepressants, anticholinergics, and calcium channel blockers—may suppress intestinal motility and cause constipation in older adults. Other symptoms such as abdominal pain or rectal bleeding may also occur. Under medical supervision, patients may take medications such as lactulose oral solution, mosapride citrate tablets, or itopride hydrochloride tablets for treatment.
4. Anxiety disorder
Mental stress or environmental changes may trigger anxiety disorders. Psychological and emotional factors can affect autonomic nervous system function, thereby contributing to constipation in the elderly. Symptoms may include low mood and sleep disturbances. Under a doctor’s advice, patients may use medications such as sertraline tablets, fluoxetine capsules, or diazepam tablets to alleviate symptoms.
5. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism may result from genetic factors or emotional changes, leading to reduced thyroid hormone secretion, slower overall metabolism, and impaired intestinal motility and fluid secretion, which may induce constipation. Common accompanying symptoms include increased thirst and fatigue. Patients should follow medical instructions and use medications such as aloe capsules, levothyroxine sodium tablets, or Guizhi Fuling pills for treatment.
Elderly individuals should maintain a balanced diet rich in dietary fiber and adequate fluids, engage in moderate physical activity, and develop regular bowel habits to prevent constipation.
