Re: Constipation

["Kathrynne Holden, MS, RD" <fivestar@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dear Eva,
It would help if he were more specific -- does he mean he doesn't have a
bowel movement as often as he used to? Or that it is always difficult to
pass?

If he's increased fluid to 2 liters/day (at least one-half of it water)
and is getting 40 grams of fiber and is able to have a bowel movement
every 2-3 days, that could be acceptable, even if it's not as often as
once was normal for him.

If he's getting that much fluid and fiber and the stool is still hard,
dry, and requires straining to pass, he needs to 1) consider adding
another glass or two of water daily; 2) add a serving of prunes or prune
juice two or three times a week; 3) avoid bananas, black tea, and white
rice; 4) if these still don't work, ask his physician about a stool
softener or acceptable laxative. If these don't work, he should ask his
physician about the possibility of pelvic floor dysfunction.

It's preferable to control constipation without the use of laxatives and
stool softeners as long as possible, as all medications bring the
possibility of adverse side effects. However, intractable constipation
can lead to bowel impactions and other concerns, and must be dealt with.
The neurologist will be familiar with constipation/PD and can provide
appropriate help.

My very best regards,
Kathrynne

> Parkinsons NZ Information Centre wrote:
>
> I have a query from a client with constipation problems. He says he
> has done all the right things, ie lots of fibre and water and
> exercise, but still can't go properly. He's still quite active, so
> maybe some exercise tips, or anything else other have found useful?
>
> Thanks
> Eva Petro
> Information Officer, Parkinsons NZ



--
Kathrynne Holden, MS, RD
Author: "Eat well, stay well with Parkinson's disease"
"Constipation and Parkinson's" --  audiocassette & guidebook
"Guidelines for Medical Nutrition Therapy for Parkinson's disease"
     & Risk Assessment Tools
"Risk for malnutrition and bone fracture in Parkinson's disease,"
     J Nutr Elderly. V18:3;1999.