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What you should know about constipation treatments
Constipation is a common digestive issue where a person has difficulty passing stools or does not pass stools as often as usual. It often involves hard, dry, or lumpy stools, which can be difficult or painful to pass. Constipation is typically defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week.
Constipation can be caused by a variety of factors including a low-fibre diet, inadequate fluid intake, lack of physical activity, changes in routine or diet, ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement, certain medications, and medical conditions such as IBS, diabetes, or hypothyroidism.
The main symptoms of constipation include infrequent bowel movements, straining during bowel movements, hard or lumpy stools, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, and abdominal pain or bloating. Some people may also experience nausea or loss of appetite.
Preventing constipation involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a diet rich in fibre (such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains), drinking plenty of water, staying physically active, and not ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement. Regular exercise and managing stress can also help keep your digestive system functioning well.
You should consult a doctor if you experience severe or persistent constipation, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, severe abdominal pain, or if constipation is accompanied by vomiting. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention.
Treatment for constipation typically starts with lifestyle changes, such as increasing dietary fibre, drinking more water, and exercising regularly. If these measures are not effective, over-the-counter laxatives can be used, including bulk-forming, osmotic, or stimulant laxatives. In more severe cases, a doctor may recommend prescription medications or other treatments.
Yes, several types of medications can cause constipation as a side effect. These include opioids, certain antidepressants, antacids containing calcium or aluminum, iron supplements, and some blood pressure medications. If you suspect your medication is causing constipation, consult your doctor for possible alternatives.
Yes, constipation is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that slow down the digestive system, as well as the pressure of the growing uterus on the intestines. Increasing fibre intake, drinking plenty of water, and staying active can help manage constipation during pregnancy. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any laxatives while pregnant.
Additional information
Constipation: Understanding, Managing, and Treating the Condition
Struggling to have a bowel movement, even when you feel the urge, can be very frustrating. As a rough guide, if you have fewer than three bowel movements per week, and your stools are hard, dry, or lumpy, you are likely experiencing constipation. This common problem affects people of all ages. Although changes in diet and lifestyle can often help restore normal bowel movements, sometimes you may need additional support. Let’s explore what constipation is, its causes, and how to manage and treat it effectively.
What is Constipation and What Causes It?
Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent, difficult, or painful. It can show up in several ways, such as:
- Passing hard, lumpy stools
- Having stools that are unusually large or small
- Straining during bowel movements
- Feeling that your bowel has not completely emptied
Constipation can vary in severity, ranging from temporary discomfort to a chronic issue that greatly impacts your quality of life. It often begins in the colon, where water is absorbed from food. When waste accumulates, it can become dry and hard, leading to constipation. Common causes include:
- Lack of dietary fiber: Insufficient fiber slows down digestion.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Inactivity can hinder digestive processes.
- Changes in routine or diet: Traveling or altering your diet can disrupt regular bowel movements.
- Medications: Some drugs, such as painkillers, antacids, and iron supplements, may cause constipation.
- Dehydration: Inadequate water intake leads to dry, hard stools.
- Ignoring the urge to go: Delaying bowel movements can result in constipation.
- Medical conditions: Disorders like IBS, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and Parkinson’s disease can contribute.
- Pregnancy and aging: Hormonal changes and weakened muscles can slow digestion.
Symptoms of Constipation
If you notice fewer bowel movements than usual, along with these symptoms, you might be constipated:
- Dry, hard, lumpy stools
- Stools that are too large or too small
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Bloating and nausea
- Loss of appetite
Diagnosing Constipation
Constipation is often self-diagnosed and managed with simple measures, but some signs indicate the need to see a GP immediately:
- Rectal bleeding
- Hemorrhoids caused by straining
- Faecal impaction (accumulated, hard, dry stools in the rectum)
Your GP will review your bowel habits, diet, and exercise routine, and may perform a physical exam or order tests to rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options for Constipation
Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Simple lifestyle changes may suffice:
- Increase fibre intake: Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep stools soft.
- Improve toilet posture: Use a small stool to elevate your feet for easier bowel movements.
If these adjustments are not enough, you may need a laxative. Types include:
- Stimulant laxatives: These trigger the muscles in the digestive tract to move stool, taking effect within 6-12 hours (e.g., Senna, Bisacodyl).
- Bulk-forming laxatives: These absorb water to bulk up stool, making it easier to pass (e.g., Ispaghula Husk, Sterculia). Remember to drink water.
- Osmotic laxatives: These draw fluid into the bowels to soften stools gently (e.g., Lactulose, Macrogol).
- Suppositories and enemas: Used for severe cases like faecal impaction, they work quickly to relieve symptoms.
Preventing Constipation
Preventing constipation is largely about a healthy lifestyle. Key strategies include:
- Eating enough fibre: Aim for at least 18 grams of fibre per day from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts.
- Staying active: Regular exercise, at least 150 minutes a week, helps keep your digestive system moving.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water and reduce caffeine, alcohol, and fizzy drinks.
- Responding to bodily signals: Don’t ignore the urge to go to the toilet; ensure you have enough time and privacy.
Understanding the causes and treatments of constipation empowers you to manage the condition and maintain digestive health. If symptoms persist despite your best efforts, consult a healthcare professional to explore further treatment options.
References and Further Reading
- For more detailed information, please refer to our related blogs and trusted external resources.
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