How are constipations formed?
Constipation occurs when bowel movements are difficult or less frequent. The normal time range between bowel movements varies widely from person to person. Some people may have three bowel movements a day, while others may have only two bowel movements a week. More than three days without a bowel movement is considered relatively long. After three days, passing stool becomes harder, and the difficulty in passing stool increases.
What causes constipation?
The most common cause of constipation is the lack of sufficient fiber in the diet or deviation from the routine diet. Chronic constipation may be caused by a low-fiber diet, dehydration, certain medications (such as antidepressants and narcotics), stress, or ignoring the need to empty the bowels.
Rarely, various medical conditions may cause or worsen constipation. One of the most common medical conditions that may cause constipation is endocrine disorders, such as an underactive thyroid gland or diabetes. Colorectal motility disorders, affecting the large intestine, are another medical condition that may cause constipation.
Common factors contributing to constipation:
1. Low-fiber diet
2. Inadequate water intake
3. Lack of physical activity
4. Traveling or changes in routine
5. Consuming large amounts of milk or cheese
6. Stress
7. Holding back bowel movements
8. Acid-blocking medications containing calcium or aluminum
9. Other medications, especially strong pain relievers like narcotics, antidepressants, and iron supplements
10. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
11. Pregnancy
How to evaluate constipation?
Most people do not need extensive tests to evaluate constipation. Only a minority of those suffering from the problem have a more serious medical condition such as an underactive thyroid, diabetes, or colorectal motility disorder. If you experience constipation for more than a week, you should consult a doctor to determine the source of the problem and receive appropriate treatment. For patients with colorectal motility disorder, early diagnosis and treatment can be life-saving.
Standard evaluation for constipation includes, among other things, based on the patient's age:
1. Blood tests
2. Colonoscopy - a procedure in which a specialized instrument is inserted through the colon to examine it.
Most people with severe constipation without a clear medical cause suffer from one of the following problems:
1. Colonic inertia - a condition in which the large intestine contracts with difficulty and retains stool.
2. Obstructive defecation - a condition in which the large intestine contracts properly, but the patient cannot evacuate stool from the colon. This can be confirmed through special tests that measure pressure and muscle function in the colon and anal sphincters (anorectal manometry).
How to prevent constipation?
1. Diet: Pay attention to a well-balanced diet rich in fiber. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole wheat bread or cereals. Fiber and water help the large intestine pass stool. The bulk of fiber in fruits is found in their skins. Fruits with edible seeds, such as wild strawberries, are the richest in fiber. Oats are an excellent source of fiber and can be added to other foods, such as soup or yogurt.
2. Hydration: Drink 1.5-2 liters of water and additional fluids daily (milk may cause constipation and gas in certain individuals). Fluids containing caffeine, such as coffee or soft drinks, with their drying effect, should be avoided until bowel function returns to normal.
3. Healthy lifestyle: Regular physical activity.
4. Habits: Avoid delaying and empty your bowels when you feel the need.
How to treat constipation?
1. Drink an additional 2-4 glasses of water daily.
2. Drink warm fluids, especially in the morning.
3. Add fruits and vegetables to your diet.
4. Eat dried plums or oats.
5. Use a very mild laxative or stool softener, such as PERICOLACE or MILK OF MAGNESIA. Avoid using laxatives for more than a week without consulting a healthcare professional as excessive use of laxatives may worsen symptoms.
When should I consult my healthcare provider?
1. Constipation is a new problem for you.
2. Presence of blood in the stool.
3. Unintended weight loss.
4. Severe pain during bowel movements.
5. Persistent constipation for more than three weeks.
Important Note: The information provided in this internet site is not intended to create a physician-patient relationship. The information does not constitute medical advice and cannot substitute for consulting with a physician or healthcare provider of any kind. The user of this information does so at his or her own risk.