Having difficult, and painful bowel movements can be challenging, and distressing. Being constipated means your bowel movements are tough and happen less frequently than normal. Almost everyone goes through it at some point. It is not usually serious and can be treated effectively if the cause is known.
The treatment for constipation San Antonio involves advanced medical innovations for early diagnosis and effective cure.
Constipation- What is it?
Constipation is a medical condition characterized by uncomfortable or infrequent bowel movements. You will be considered constipated if your bowel movements are painful resulting in the passage of small amounts of hard, dry stool, usually fewer than three times a week.
Contributors to constipation
Constipation can occur on its own or as a result of the underlying factors mentioned below:
Lifestyle factors
- Not eating enough fiber
- Dehydration (lack of water)
- Sedentary life (lack of exercise)
- Consuming large amounts of milk products
- Stress
- Excess alcohol intake
- Excess intake of sugary foods
- Changes in regular routine (like traveling)
- Delaying bowel movements
- Sudden dietary changes
Medications
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- High dose painkillers
- Opioids
- Antidepressants
- Antacids
- Allergy medications
Medical conditions
- Endocrine disorders
- Colorectal cancer
- Irritable bowel disease (IBD)
- Diverticular disease
- Pregnancy
- Intestinal obstruction
- Obstructed defecation syndrome
- Multiple organ diseases like Lupus
Manifestations of constipation
Constipation is characterized by the following symptoms:
- Fewer than 3 bowel movements a week
- Painful bowel movement
- Straining during bowel movement
- Small, hard, dry, pellet-like stools
- A feeling of bloating
- Stomachache or cramps
- A feeling of not emptying your bowels even after a movement
Curing constipation
Treatment for constipation depends on the underlying cause. Your doctor will physically examine you and may order certain diagnostic tests like blood tests, ultrasound scans, CT, MRI, biopsy, and certain bowel function tests.
Treatment includes:
Lifestyle modifications
- Dietary changes
- Regular exercise
- Boost water intake
- Consume supplemental fibers
- Avoid excess processed meat
- Use low-fat dairy products
- Use the washroom immediately when you feel the urge to pass stools
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine-containing beverages
- Consume high-fiber foods like fruits and vegetables
Medications
- Fiber supplements
- Laxatives
- Stool softeners
- Lubricants like mineral oil
Surgery
- To treat underlying causes like IBD, intestinal obstruction, anal prolapse, and anal fissures
Takeaway
Constipation is a common condition experienced by everyone at some point. This may be temporary, a long-term issue, or a sign of a more serious condition. Thus, it is important to discuss your concerns openly and honestly with your doctor. Chronic, persistent constipation should not be ignored and treated accordingly.
