Infrequent, hard, painful stools affect a significant proportion of Lagos adults. Most are dietary and lifestyle-related — but some constipation is a symptom of a serious underlying condition (hypothyroidism, colorectal cancer, medication side effects). At Mascot Healthcare, Akoka, we investigate appropriately. From ₦5,000.
The most common cause in Lagos. A diet dominated by white rice, white bread, and processed food with low vegetable intake causes slow gut transit.
Dietary advice + fibre supplementOpioid pain medications, iron tablets, calcium channel blockers, and antihistamines all cause constipation. Review your medications.
Medication review + laxativeLow thyroid hormone slows gut motility — causing constipation, weight gain, fatigue, and cold intolerance. A TSH blood test diagnoses this.
Thyroid function testNew constipation in an adult over 40, especially with blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or alternating constipation and diarrhoea — requires investigation.
Urgent: GP assessment + colonoscopy referralEvery patient who walks into Mascot Healthcare, Akoka receives a proper clinical assessment — not a guess and a prescription. We use evidence-based guidelines, up-to-date knowledge of Lagos-specific disease patterns, and appropriate investigations to ensure correct diagnosis and targeted treatment.
By appointment at Mascot Healthcare, Akoka. From ₦5,000.