This week we focus on the unspeakable: bowel movements. Constipation – problems emptying the bowel – and fecal incontinence - accidental emptying of the bowel- are both more common than you probably realize. This is because people don’t tend to talk about it.
So let’s talk about it today and review some options which might help.
Bowel problems can be treated. They tend not to go away on their own. Bowel problems are not an inevitable consequence of aging. Bowel problems are like any other medical condition and not something to be embarrassed by.
Constipation is a very common problem that affects us at all ages. Constipation is caused by many things including: not getting enough dietary fibre; not drinking enough water; and not being active. You can get constipated if you don’t take time to have a bowel movement or if your feet don’t touch the floor when you are seated on the toilet.
Constipation can be corrected by increasing your daily intake of clear fluids to 6 to 8 glasses and your dietary fibre to 28 grams. Fibre and fluids work together to make the bowel movements soft and easy to pass. Fibre counters are available on the internet so you can determine if you are getting enough fibre. Sources of fibre include bran, oatmeal, whole wheat products and green leafy vegetables. It takes planning to eat enough fibre over the day. And you have to be a good label reader too. For example, some bread products may claim to be ‘high in fibre’ but only have 1 gram per slice.
Fecal incontinence is also triggered by a number of factors. Causes can include injury in childbirth to muscles around the back passage, nerve damage from diseases such as diabetes, or even the medications a person is taking. It is important to investigate what those particular factors are for you and then to treat them.
For more information or to refer yourself for an assessment of your bowel concerns by a registered nurse, call the Continence Care Clinic in
Brantford at 1-877-490-2732. There is no charge. To learn more tips on incorporating fibre and fluids into your lifestyle, visit the website of the Canadian Nurse Continence Advisors at
www.cnca.ca
.