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Practice updates

Self Help - Bowel Problems

Diarrhoea

Acute diarrhoea is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection and affects almost everyone from time to time.  A common cause in both children and adults is gastroenteritis, an infection of the bowel lining; this is usually viral and tends to go away on its own in about 3-5 days. You will usually not need to see a doctor unless you have underlying health problems such as kidney problems or heart problems or diabetes.

Bouts of diarrhoea in adults may also be brought on by anxiety or drinking too much coffee or alcohol. Diarrhoea may also be a side effect of a medication.

If you have persistent diarrhoea for more than 2 weeks, please contact a doctor or advanced nurse practitioner.

Constipation

Mild constipation can often be treated with dietary measures (increased green vegetables and fruits etc.) but if this is not working then it is worth visiting the pharmacy initially for some laxatives such as lactulose. This can be done without the need to consult a doctor or triage nurse.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome has had recent advances and there are apps that can help with specialised diets. One of the most useful of these is the FODMAP diet which can be accessed via an app - for example the Android FODMAP App and iOS FODMAP App. This can also often be managed using buscopan which is available over the counter via a pharmacy.

Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids or piles are enlarged veins around the back passage that can sometimes cause fresh red bleeding on wiping. They tend to be caused by increased pressure in the veins which is often caused by mild constipation further around the bowel. If you have a change to your bowel motions such as persistently looser motions then you need to see a doctor. Haemorrhoids can be treated over the counter by increasing your fluid intake, using mild over the counter laxatives such as lactulose or fybogel, and trying some haemorrhoid cream or suppositories. If this doesn't work it is still worth seeing a doctor as there are other things we can offer.