Constipation is a common experience for kidney disease patients. It is uncomfortable and makes you feel bloated. Prolonged constipation is a serious medical condition that can cause a blockage of stool or tear the lining in the bowel.
听“Constipation is an uncomfortable subject to talk about but it’s important. For dialysis patients, it can be deadly. Many phosphate-binding medications can cause severe constipation.听Plus,听most people on dialysis must limit听fluids and fresh fruits and vegetables. That makes constipation a real issue.”
鈥� Katy Wilkens, nutrition and fitness manager
What are the signs of constipation?
- Lack of daily bowel movements
- Hard stools more than 25 percent of the time
- Straining during bowel movements more than 25 percent of
the time
Be regular:听tips to keep you going
Eat more fiber. More fiber in your听diet will make your stools softer and听easier to pass. High-fiber foods to try听include whole grains, bran, and fruits听and vegetables. Check the amount of听potassium in your fruits and vegetables听鈥� some are high in fiber but also high听in potassium, which can build up to听dangerous levels between dialysis听treatments. Check with your dietitian if听you鈥檙e unsure. Increase fiber in your diet
slowly 鈥� too much too fast can cause听gas, bloating and cramping.
Exercise. Daily physical activity will听increase blood circulation and muscle听tone in your intestines, making it easier听to regulate your bowels. Take a walk,听stretch, do light housework.
Create a bowel routine. Take some听time each day to spend in the bathroom.听Respond to your urges to have a bowel听movement. Talk with your doctor about听laxatives or stool softeners that might听work for you.
If constipation is an issue for you, contact your health care team.
Tags: dialysis, nutrition, patient education, patient health, tips for patients