Constipation

Constipation is a common digestive problem where a person experiences infrequent or difficult bowel movements. It often involves passing hard, dry stools, and can cause discomfort/pain, bloating, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation.

Understanding & Managing

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Behavioral Remedies for constipation

Establishing a Routine e.g. having a consistent time each day to try for a bowel movement can train your body to develop a regular schedule. Promptly Responding to the natural Urge for a bowel can prevent hardening of stool which usually worsens constipation. Improving Toilet Posture e.g. placing a small stool under the feet to adopt a squatting position while sitting on the toilet aligns the intestines more naturally, making it easier to pass stool. . Relaxation & Stress Management .Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, meditation or listening to music can reduce stress & promote digestive health. Regular exercise stimulates the natural contractions of intestinal muscles, promoting regular bowel movements.

Medical Remedies for constipation

Laxatives e.g. Metamucil, MiraLAX, Milk of Magnesia, bisacodyl etc can be used for uncomplicated constipation for short periods of time. Enemas & suppositories e.g. mineral oils, glycerin, or bisacodyl used under medical guidance can soften stool & stimulate bowel movements. ·Prescription medicine may be needed depending on your specific circumstances, cause of the constipation & other concurrent medical conditions. ·Biofeedback Therapy for constipation due to pelvic floor muscle dysfunction can relax & coordinate the dysfunctional muscles through feedback devices

Natural /Home remedies for constipation

Increasing Fiber Intake Fibre rich foods include leafy greens, kale, Broccoli, spinach, carrots, Whole Grains (Oats, brown rice, whole wheat, quinoa) Fruits (Mangoes, bananas, avocados, Apples, pears, berries, prunes), legumes (Beans, lentils, and chickpeas) Taking Nutrient Rich Supplements such as chia seeds, flax seeds, aloe vera, psyllium, Staying Hydrated. Taking at least 2 liters of water daily softens stools, making them easier to pass. ·Warm Beverages in the Morning e.g. Warm water with lemon, or herbal teas ·Probiotic-Rich Foods such as Yogurt with live cultures, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, Kombucha and other fermented foods. Drinking Herbal Teas like Peppermint, Ginger, Chamomile, Dandelion, Senna Avoid Foods like excessive Dairy Products, Excessive Caffeine or Alcohol, Processed Foods and Refined Carbs

When should you seek medical attention for constipation?

Constipation lasting more than three weeks ·Severe pain during bowel movements ·Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools ·Unintended weight loss or fatigue ·Symptoms of blockage (e.g., vomiting, abdominal distension or inability to pass gas) Your doctor will evaluate the history of your illness and do a physical examination. Additionally, your doctor may perform some blood or stool tests, imaging, or endoscopic procedures to identify underlying causes and recommend appropriate treatment

What are the key symptoms of constipation?

Infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three per week) Difficulty passing stools (straining or feeling blocked) Hard, dry, or lumpy stools Feeling of incomplete emptying after a bowel movement Abdominal discomfort or bloating

What are the causes/risk factors for constipation?

Low-fiber diet: makes stool harder and more difficult to pass. Dehydration due to low water intake can lead to dry stools that are hard to pass. Lack of physical activity/sedentary lifestyle can slow down digestion. Medications: such as painkillers, antidepressants, and antacids with calcium or aluminum,. Stress & anxiety can slow down the movement of stool through the intestines. Ignoring the urge or delaying bowel movements can lead to constipation. Underlying health conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Redundant Sigmoid colon, Bowel Cancer, hypothyroidism, diabetes, neurological disorders etc