Constipation & Diarrhea

T/F. The initial management of patients with symptomatic constipation involves ensuring adequate fluid and fiber intake.

• True

• False

Which of the following is not an alarm symptom of chronic constipation?

• Anemia

• Weight gain

• Family history of colon cancer

• Blood in stool

Which type of laxative works by drawing water into the intestines to soften stool?

• Bisacodyl

• PEG

• Senna

• Linzess

A 55 YOF presents to your clinic complaining of constipation for the past 4 months. She reports bowel movements twice per week; denies weight loss, blood in stool or abdominal pain. Increasing fiber has not helped much. What is the best recommendation for her at this time?

• PEG

• Refer for colonscopy

• Senna

• Amitiza

A 62 YOM presents with constipation that has worsened over the past 3 months. He reports occasional blood in the stool and unintentional 15-pound weight loss. He has no prior history of constipation and no significant medical history. What is the best recommendation at this time?

• PEG

• Senna

• Refer for colonoscopy

• Increase fluids and fiber

Which of the following would be the best treatment recommendation for mild acute diarrhea in an otherwise healthy adult?

• Loperamide

• Oral rehydration solution

• Rifaximin

• Lactobacillus

The following medications may lead to medication-induced diarrhea except for:

• Iron

• Colchicine

• Orlistat

• Magnesium

A 40 YOF presents with intermittent diarrhea for the past 6 months. She reports occasional loose stools associated with abdominal pain that improve after a bowel movement. She denies weight loss, blood in the stool, and lab results are normal. What is the best recommendation at this time?

• Loperamide as needed

• Refer for colonoscopy

• Vancomycin

• PEG

A 38 YOF presents with chronic diarrhea lasting > 6 months. She reports urgency, bloating, and alternating between diarrhea and constipation. She states her symptoms are relieved by bowel movements. Denies weight loss or blood in stool. What is the best recommendation for her at this time?

• Start Rifaximin

• Try a low FODMAP diet

• Start daily lactobacillus

• Refer for colonoscopy

T/F. Probiotics are always recommended for all patients with diarrhea, regardless of the cause.

• True

• False