This site is intended for Healthcare Professionals only
Managing symptoms of constipation
Introduction & module overview
Definition of constipation
IBS and constipation; when to refer
Common, less serious causes
Dietary & lifestyle advice
Use of laxatives: different types
Safety concerns with stimulant laxatives
MHRA restrictions on access to stimulant laxatives
Making a planned CPD entry – some pointers
Now test your knowledge
IBS and constipation; when to refer
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IBS and constipation; when to refer
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) usually involves episodes of abdominal pain and diarrhoea, sometimes alternating with constipation and a feeling of abdominal distension. In many, the discomfort is associated with, or relieved by, defaecation and some patients regularly take stimulant laxatives or lactulose to stimulate defaecation. This should be discouraged unless advised by a doctor.
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