Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 1: New-onset constipation following stroke is a common yet often overlooked complication and is independently associated with poorer rehabilitation outcomes, according to a recent study.
The research, conducted on 600 patients with acute Stroke, found that 46.3 per cent developed constipation after the event. Among patients with no prior history of constipation, 38.8 per cent experienced new-onset symptoms during recovery.
Overall, 21 per cent of participants had a pre-existing history of constipation, while 278 patients were identified with post-stroke constipation during the study period.
The study highlighted several risk factors associated with new-onset constipation, including hemorrhagic and posterior circulation strokes, diabetes, use of certain medications such as osmotic diuretics and antacids, reliance on bedpans, sleep disturbances, depression, and higher neurological severity scores at admission.
Researchers noted that bowel dysfunction in stroke patients may not be solely due to immobility or medication use. Factors like sleep disruption and mental health conditions, including Depression, also play a significant role, indicating the need for comprehensive patient assessment during early rehabilitation.
Importantly, new-onset constipation was found to be independently linked to poorer discharge outcomes, particularly among patients with moderate stroke severity. The findings underscore the importance of early identification and management of constipation to improve recovery prospects.
Clinicians are advised to routinely screen stroke patients for constipation risk by evaluating medication use, toileting methods, neurological condition, sleep quality, mood, and metabolic health. Early intervention may help enhance rehabilitation outcomes and reduce preventable complications.
While the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it highlights post-stroke constipation as a significant and manageable factor in patient recovery.