Issues with the lower GI tract

Many issues can affect the gastrointestinal tract and pharmacy teams should be ready to deal with questions on a range of symptoms from constipation and diarrhoea to haemorrhoids, as well as being able to advise customers on suitable treatment options and lifestyle advice to help prevent and manage them.

Learning objectives

• Understand how the lower GI tract functions 
• Recognise and distinguish between common bowel issues 
• Be able to provide advice on treatment and management to ease symptoms
• Know when to refer to the pharmacist.