1. Constipation

Increasing dietary fibre and fluid intake, as well as taking regular exercise can help to ease constipation. OTC laxatives can also be recommended. These work in different ways, depending on their active ingredients. Some are stimulants (e.g. senna), some are bulk-forming (e.g. ispaghula husk), some are osmotic (e.g. lactulose) and others are stool softeners (e.g. docusate sodium). Glycerol suppositories for rectal use can also be used as a short-term treatment. OTC examples include Dulcolax, Fybogel and Senokot.

2. Diarrhoea

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids or using oral rehydration salts (e.g. Dioralyte) is important for customers affected by diarrhoea. For those who want something to slow down their bowel movements, loperamide is an anti-diarrhoeal treatment, but it cannot be sold over the counter for children under the age of 12. OTC examples include Imodium.

3. Haemorrhoids

Treatment options include creams and ointments, which are intended for external piles, and suppositories, for internal piles. These contain ingredients such as: astringents (e.g. bismuth salts) to help soothe and reduce swelling; antiseptics (e.g. balsam peru) to protect against infection; emollients to protect the skin, and local anaesthetics (e.g. lidocaine) to reduce itching and pain. Hydrocortisone is an anti-inflammatory agent and should only be used for five to seven days. If symptoms persist following treatment, refer the customer to the pharmacist. OTC examples include Anusol. 

Some customers find ointments, which are greasier than creams, alleviate dry skin. Customers may also find that moist toilet wipes are more comfortable to use than toilet paper if the area is sore.

Did you know?

The digestive system has its own nervous system, called the enteric nervous system.