▶ About 25% of the population experiences it – Proper food and hydration are essential

Constipation affects approximately 5-20% of the population, making it a common issue. Its frequency increases with age, and it is especially prevalent among the elderly.

Constipation is defined as the need to exert excessive force during bowel movements, or when stools become excessively hard and dry, causing a sensation of incomplete evacuation after defecation or when bowel movements occur less than three times a week. More than 90% of constipation cases are caused by dysfunctions in colon motility or rectal and anal functions. Secondary constipation may result from systemic diseases or medication use.

In the elderly, constipation is often due to reduced physical activity and conditions like diabetes, leading to slow transit constipation. Slow transit constipation occurs when the movement of the intestines slows down. Insufficient food and water intake can also contribute to constipation.

What can be done to prevent constipation in the elderly? Professor Choi Jeong-min from the Gastroenterology Center at the Sanggye Paik Hospital advises, “When the urge to defecate arises after meals, it is important not to delay and go to the bathroom immediately. It is also important to develop a habit of sitting on the toilet at regular times. Avoid sitting on the toilet for more than 10 minutes at a time, and for less active elderly individuals, taking a 20-minute walk nearby can help improve their lifestyle.”

Proper food and hydration intake are also crucial. In particular, dietary fiber intake is essential. Dietary fiber does not break down in the body and has the ability to retain water. The key to fiber intake is not the type of fiber but the overall amount consumed. To increase fiber intake, eating foods such as psyllium husk, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can be beneficial for relieving constipation.

If constipation becomes severe and disrupts daily life, visiting a doctor for medication is another option. The typical treatment involves bulk-forming laxatives, and if these are ineffective, osmotic laxatives may be used. If these medications still do not provide relief, stimulant laxatives can be cautiously considered. A polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution, which was originally used for colonoscopy preparation, is now commercially available as a safe and highly effective remedy.

Professor Choi emphasizes, “Drugs that stimulate bowel movement, such as prucalopride, can also be added, and if the existing medications are not effective, using two or more drugs together or adding new ones can lead to better outcomes.”

Source: - KoreaTimes (미주한국일보)

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