Treatment for changes in bowel habit depends on the cause and the severity of the condition, and often needs to be tailored to the individual’s needs. It may be treated with any combination of dietary and lifestyle modifications, medications such as laxatives, antidiarrhoeal medications or steroids for patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Treatments may also include bio-feedback exercises for patients with functional bowel disorders or even surgery. Surgery is necessary for patients who are diagnosed with existing medical conditions such as colorectal cancer, rectal prolapse or in recalcitrant slow transit constipation.
