CONDITION
Constipation
Constipation
Constipation happens when you have hard stools or go to the bathroom less often than normal. It is defined as passing motion less than 3 times a week. It’s common and usually doesn’t cause any serious problems, but it can be painful and uncomfortable. In some cases, constipation may be due to an underlying condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or an intestinal blockage caused by colon cancer.
Causes of Constipation
Some common constipation symptoms to look out for include:
Medications
Lack of exercise
Not enough liquids in the diet
Not enough fiber in the diet
Irritable bowel syndrome
Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
Changes in habits or lifestyle, such as travel, pregnancy, and old age
Problems with intestinal function
Over usage of laxatives
- Get a test to check as soon as possible.
- Do not self medicate .
Symptoms of Constipation
Watch for these Symptoms
Some common constipation symptoms to look out for include:
- Passing fewer than three bowel movements a week.
- Having overly hard stools.
- Fecal impaction in the rectum
- Straining to pass a bowel movement.
- A feeling of blockage in your rectum that is hindering a bowel movement.
- A feeling of incomplete emptying of stool from your rectum.
When to see a doctor
Many people can get temporary constipation in their lifetime that goes away. We recommend that you see us or any constipation clinic if you have a persistent change in bowel habit (more than 3 weeks) of experience any warning signs. Any persistent change (more than 3 weeks) in bowel movement:
- Increased frequency
- Decreased frequency
- Increased stool size
- Decreased stool size
- Increased difficulty in evacuating stool
Warning signs:
- Blood in stools
- Loss of weight
- Loss of appetite
- Severe abdominal pain
Treatment for Constipation
How to relieve constipation
There are several ways to relieve constipation. You can drink more water, eat more fiber and exercise. You can also try a laxative or stool softener that you get from your doctor or pharmacist.
- Laxatives: These are medications that work to reduce the amount of water in your stool, making it easier to pass. Stool softeners: These are drugs that decrease the ability of the colon muscles to contract, which ultimately makes it easier for you to have a bowel movement.
- Enemas: This is when water is inserted into the rectum through an enema bottle or bag through a tube attached to an applicator.
- Suppositories: This involves inserting a solid medicated tablet into your rectum by way of an insertion device called suppository inserter (suppository catheters).
Foods that may help relieve constipation
If you’re constipated, foods that contain lots of fiber can help. Try:
- Pumpkin seeds
- Flaxseed
- Peanuts
- Oats and other whole grains, like wheat and barley
- Lentils (dried, green or red)
Constipation Prevention
To get relief from constipation, start by making lifestyle changes, like drinking more water and eating more fiber. If those changes don’t work, try a laxative or stool softener.
Conclusion
Many people can get temporary constipation in their lifetime that goes away. We recommend that you see us or any constipation clinic if you have a persistent change in bowel habit (more than 3 weeks) of experience any warning signs.
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