Chapter 2: Counselling
Your recommendations should include what you consider to be the best, complete health solution for the patient’s condition.
Explain the complete health solution for their condition, informing the patient why you are recommending each product and lifestyle option - let the patient decide if they want the whole, best health solution or just a part of it.
-
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet: Drink enough water to stay hydrated, and consider incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your diet to support tear production.
Manage Eyelid Hygiene and Avoid Eye Irritants: Clean your eyelids regularly if needed, avoid rubbing your eyes, and use hypoallergenic eye products to minimize irritation.
Fibre supplements
Help to retain water in the bowel and provides bulk, which means that the stool is softer and the quantity is greater, so it is easier to pass.Medicines administered into the rectum.
Suppositories and enemas are the fastest acting laxatives and should only be used in severe constipation where the patient is in significant pain and needs something to act quickly.
-
Sufficient water
Insufficient water intake can lead to hard, dry stools – this is a common cause of constipation.Regular exercise
Physical activity helps the gut muscles push out the stool.Healthy eating
A diet low in fibre is a common cause of ongoing constipation. Fibre is important in the diet as it retains water in the bowel to keep the stool softer and bulky which makes it easier to pass. -
Doctor
Referral to a doctor is required if there is the possibility of an underlying health condition that requires diagnosis.Dietician
Referral to a dietician may be useful if the patient is not eating a balanced healthy diet with lots of fibre.