Dying for a pooJune Rogers MBESpecialist Nurse

Bladder and Bowel UKwww.bbuk.co.uk

Helpline: 0161 607 8219

This talk is about constipation

• Lots of people have a problem with constipation

• Constipation can make you feel very ill

• If not treated people may have to go to hospital

Some people have died because of constipation

• Two people with learning disabilities died in hospital in Surrey as a result of untreated constipation in 2018.

• Constipation is not a problem that can be ignored

Elvis Presley died of chronic constipation

What is constipation?

• Constipation is when it is difficult to do a poo

• Less than 3 poos a week could indicate constipation

• However the consistency of the poo is important as well

What causes Constipation?

• Not drinking or eating enough fruit and vegetables

• Lack of exercise

• Side effect of some medications

• Not going to the toilet regularly

Correct way to sit on the toilet

Why are people with a learning difficulty more at risk?

• Constipation not treated appropriately in childhood

• Overtime the bowel becomes overstretched (acquired mega colon/rectum)

• Poor muscle tone• Difficulties in communication• Lack of understanding and awareness• Reluctance to use the toilet

Prevention is better than cure!

• Identify those at risk• Encourage fruit and

vegetables• Ensure at least 6 drinks per

day• Encourage exercise• Encourage toileting after

meals• Anyone felt to be at risk of

constipation should have an individual care plan

If you think someone is constipated• You need to speak to someone about it

• They will need to see the doctor

• The doctor will prescribe some medication

• It is important to keep taking the medication until the doctor tells you to stop

More Information

Sources of information

• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/constipation-and-people-with-learning-disabilities/constipation-making-reasonable-adjustments

• https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/constipation-resources-families-carers-stage-31-web.pdf

• https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/constipation-resources-hcp-31-web.pdf

• https://www.bbuk.org.uk/adults/adults-resources/

Thank you Any questions?