Constipation treatment

A MinuteClinic provider will review what medicines and supplements you are taking. They may also order diagnostic tests such as an x-ray to discover the cause of your constipation. They will recommend a treatment plan, which could include recommendations for dietary and lifestyle changes or prescribing medication for constipation relief, if necessary. For those with more severe constipation symptoms, they may refer you to a specialist.

Constipation symptoms can range from feeling uncomfortable to extremely painful and finding the right treatment is key. If you are struggling with constipation, schedule a MinuteClinic visit to get the treatment you need.

1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

During digestion, your colon absorbs water as food passes through it and becomes stool. Muscle contractions in the colon push the stool toward the rectum. When the contractions are too slow, the stool moves slowly through the colon and too much water is absorbed, resulting in dry, hard stool that is hard or painful to pass.

Common causes of constipation include:

• Pregnancy
• Old age
• Medication
• Lack of exercise
• Not enough liquids
• Not enough fiber
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Travel
• Stress
• Holding in bowel movements
• Intestinal problems

Constipation can cause significant discomfort. Fortunately, a MinuteClinic® provider can help create a treatment plan for you so that you can get your constipation under control. For most mild to moderate cases, there are many steps that you can take at home, such as:

• Exercise more.
• Drink three to four more glasses of water each day (in addition to the recommended 64 ounces) and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Eat food for constipation, such as prunes, bran cereal, or high-fiber foods fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid high-fat foods.
• Squat or raise your feet while attempting a bowel movement.
• Incorporate over-the-counter fiber supplements or laxatives into your diet.

If you think you might be constipated or the frequency of your bowel movements has deviated significantly from its usual pattern, visit MinuteClinic for a diagnosis and treatment.

You may want to schedule a MinuteClinic visit if you are experiencing the following symptoms:

• Are not improving with treatment
• Are regularly constipated or have uncomfortable bowel movement
• Blood in your stool