23rd August 2023

A 60-year-old woman with a background of hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia and hypothyroidism presents with constipation for the past few weeks

A 60-year-old woman with a background of hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia and hypothyroidism presents with constipation for the past few weeks. She has been having bowel movements only twice weekly and reports straining during defecation. Her symptoms persist despite trying over-the-counter laxatives and increasing her fluid and fibre intake.

What is the most appropriate next step in management?