Constipation:
Constipation takes place, when bowel motions become difficult or less frequent. In simple terms, a person has trouble in passing stools. Stools usually are solid, dry, painful, and difficult to excrete.
Frequency of bowel movements can vary from person to person. It can vary from three times a day to once or twice a week. You start facing the problem after three days. The feces become more difficult to pass.
With constipation, people live a stressful life. People assume they are suffering from constipation, if they experience irregular bowel movements even for a day. However, normal waste excretion can be thrice a day or thrice a week. Constipation occurs because of unhealthy eating habits.
Things to Know:
If you do not answer the nature's call, colon absorbs large amount of water because of which the stool becomes harder. The colon absorbs water if it passes through the gastro-intestinal tract gradually. Obstipation is the term used to define severe constipation, which obstructs passage of both stools as well as gas. Causes of constipation may be anatomical, hormonal, disorder, nutritional, or sickness.
Food containing fiber is very good for overcoming constipation. Vegetables, fresh fruits and whole grains are best form of fiber. Hormones have an impact on constipation. Variations of thyroid hormone in the body can cause constipation.
During menstruation and pregnancy, progesterone and estrogen levels increase, which results in constipation. A person suffering from Parkinson's disease, or having spinal cord malfunctions may also suffer from constipation.
Antidepressants, trauma, anxiety, tranquilizers, painkillers, antispasmodic drugs, low fiber nutrients, and iron supplements are amongst few things that cause constipation. Certain symptoms include difficulty in defecating, irritation, abdominal swelling, pain, loss of appetite, headache, nausea, sluggishness and laziness. Hence, treatment for constipation is to eat food with high fiber content. You may also drink plenty of water, or juice. In addition, you may also indulge yourself in regular exercises, and defecating and answering the nature's call when your body requires are some ways to avoid constipation.
If you are frequently suffering from this, it is advisable to consult a doctor. The doctor will examine and ask your medical history. Change in food habits, travelling, laxatives and way of living are some ways in which you can overcome constipation.
Other Constipation Treatment Options:
Bowel retraining - It is of great help to those, who have the habit of controlling the urge to excrete. Straining is not suggested, as it can lead to contraction of muscles, which needs to be otherwise relaxed for excretion.
Rectal suppositories - These render lubrication, as they are compiled of glycerin, fused with sodium.
Enemas - They are good, when oral laxatives fail to deliver positive results. Introduction of water into colon helps to stimulate defecation. Oil-containing enemas are suggested as softeners for hard and dry stools.
Biofeedback - It is advocated for those suffering from constant constipation. Biofeedback involves usage of antenna to monitor muscle movement for precise evaluation of body functions. If you are suffering from pelvic floor dysfunction, biofeedback is the suitable treatment.
Surgery - Colon is surgically removed for those with severe symptoms caused by colonic inertia. Constipation can be worrisome, if not given proper attention. You may face complications if straining persists, which can cause hemorrhoids and cracks in your anus. Persistent constipation can sometimes aggravate the problem of fecal impaction. An impaction can be hazardous and you have to get it done surgically.
Overview:
Frequent use of laxatives can result in lazy bowel syndrome, wherein your bowels lose the ability to function independently. In reality, laxatives are harmful to use, as they lead to low absorption of vitamins and other supplements, deteriorates your intestinal tract and further aggravate the problem of constipation.
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