Understanding Constipation: What Is It And How Do You Treat It?
A condition where the individual has difficulty passing stool. This can lead to hard stool or infrequent bowel movements. Constipation is a common condition that affects approximately 42 million Americans . Constipation accounts for over 2.5 million annual doctor visits.
What exactly is constipation?
When food is not moving quickly through the digestive system, constipation can occur. This Causes hard and dry stool that can make it difficult for you to pass. Constipation can cause abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. Constipation symptoms include infrequent bowel movements, straining to have one, dry and hard stool, and feeling that you can't completely empty your bowels.
Constipation severity can differ from one person to another. It may be mild, occasional or severe. While constipation may be a single symptom for some people, others might experience other symptoms like abdominal pain, gas, or bloating.
Constipation: Common Causes
Constipation can be caused by many factors, such as dietary changes and medications.
Constipation can be caused by diet changes, especially if there is not enough fiber. Fiber adds bulk to stool, which makes them easier to pass. Constipation can be caused by not drinking enough fluids. Fluids soften stool and help prevent constipation. Constipation can be caused by eating processed food and high-fat foods.
Constipation can be caused by Certain Medications , such as antidepressants and narcotics. Constipation can also be caused by inactivity. Regular exercise encourages regular bowel movements.
Constipation can also be caused by certain medical conditions. This includes irritable bowel syndrome ( Ibs ), thyroid issues, diabetes and pregnancies. Constipation can also occur in people with neurological conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson's disease.
There are several common Treatment s for constipation
Constipation can be treated by lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake and fluid intake. Increased fiber can soften stool and fluid intake may make it easier for stool to pass. Regular exercise encourages regular stool movements.
Another option is to use an over-the-counter medication for constipation. The laxatives soften the stool and make it easier for them to pass through the digestive tract. Laxatives are best used for a brief period of time as they can cause dependence or worsen constipation.
In some instances, prescription medications might be required to treat constipation. They work by increasing the water absorption and stimulating the muscles of the intestine to aid in food movement.
Expert Opinions about Constipation
Lifestyle changes, according to experts, are the most effective way to control constipation. Professor of Medicine at the University of Michigan Dr. William Chey says that lifestyle changes are the best way to manage constipation. He suggests increasing your fiber intake and increasing fluid intake. Also, exercising frequently is a good idea. However, laxatives and other medication may also be helpful.
In a study , the Journal Gastroenterology & Hepatology concluded that probiotics and fiber are effective at treating constipation. Study results showed that people who combined fiber with probiotics experienced significantly less constipation episodes than those who only took fiber. Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, help promote healthy gut.
There are natural remedies and tips to prevent constipation
You can prevent constipation with natural tips and remedies. Consuming fiber-rich food such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables can make it easier to pass stool. Constipation can be prevented by increasing fluid intake, particularly water. Regular bowel movements can be encouraged by regular exercise.
Probiotics may also be helpful in reducing constipation risk by maintaining gut health. Drinking prune juice and taking magnesium supplements are other natural ways to treat constipation.
Conclusion
It is common to experience constipation, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms. There are many lifestyle and treatment options that can be used to alleviate constipation. Constipation can be prevented or treated by increasing fiber intake and fluid intake. Regular exercise and probiotics are also good options. There are many over-the-counter as well as prescription medication options to treat constipation. The best way to manage constipation is lifestyle changes and talking to your doctor to determine the most effective treatment.