The first step in dealing with bowel disorders is to identify the problem and seek advice. Whilst it is usually possible to control any difficulties with diet, fluid intake and exercise, your doctor or Parkinson’s Disease nurse specialist will be able to advise further, and may, for example, prescribe laxatives in severe cases of constipation.
The following healthcare professionals can also advise on aspects of bowel care:
Very often constipation can be controlled through diet, fluid intake and exercise but if this does not work, then laxatives may be helpful in managing the problem. But they should be used with caution and only under the direction of a doctor, because some may cause permanent damage to the bowel.
There are several types available including fibre-based laxatives and ‘osmotic’ laxatives which draw water into the bowel and retain it there to soften and bulk up stools, so making them easier to pass. One such example is Movicol®, a solution which delivers water to the large intestine, increasing the bulk of the stool. This triggers the muscles of the bowel to contract and produce a bowel movement. The water in Movicol® solution is not absorbed into the body so it can also soften and lubricate the stools to promote comfortable bowel movements.
It is crucial that, at first, your doctor checks regularly that the dose of any laxative is right for you. Once this is achieved, you will probably be able to maintain the right balance on a day-to-day basis, taking account of what you do and how you feel from one day to another.
According to private healthcare provider, BUPA, each year in the UK around £50 million is spent on laxatives
Foods, compounds, or medication taken to induce bowel movements, most often taken to treat constipation.
A condition where it becomes difficult to empty faeces from the bowel or where the stool is small, hard, and difficult or painful to pass.
See section Bowel Problems including Constipation.
A dietician advises on a healthy diet and specific dietary needs. They can offer advice on how diet can ease some symptoms, such as constipation. They may also liaise with a speech and language therapist regarding swallowing and eating difficulties.
Health profession that treats people of all ages who have physical problems that occur as a result of injury, illness or ageing. Methods they use include exercise, heat treatments, manipulation and hydrotherapy.
See section on Physiotherapy.
Health profession who help people of all ages who have problems with communication, swallowing, drooling, eating and drinking.
Health profession that helps people of all ages who are disabled, ill or aged to remain independent and lead fulfilling lives at home, in work and through leisure pursuits. The methods they use include specific activities and equipment.
See section on Occupational Therapy.
