Understanding Constipation: Get Relief and Keep Things Moving!

 

                                                                                      credits: gastroconsa
What is Constipation?

Constipation, also known medically as obstipation, is a common digestive issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It's characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools. While bowel movement frequency varies, having fewer than three per week is generally considered constipation. It can strike anyone, but older adults and women are more prone to it.

Signs and Symptoms:

Constipation can be uncomfortable and disruptive. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

  • Infrequent bowel movements: Less than three per week
  • Hard, lumpy stools
  • Straining during bowel movements
  • A feeling of incomplete evacuation
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Bloating

Causes of Constipation:

Several factors can contribute to constipation. Here are some of the most common culprits:

  • Diet: Low fibre intake, dehydration, and a diet heavy in processed foods can slow things down.
  • Inactivity: Lack of exercise can lead to sluggish digestion.
  • Medications: Certain pain relievers, antacids, and antidepressants can have constipation as a side effect.
  • Medical Conditions: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diabetes, thyroid issues, and neurological problems can sometimes cause constipation.
  • Lifestyle: Changes in routine, travel, pregnancy, and ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can all play a role.
  • Ageing: Our metabolism naturally slows down as we age, which can affect bowel regularity.


Solutions for Relief:

Fortunately, there are several ways to find relief from constipation:

  • Dietary Changes: Increase your fibre intake with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity helps stimulate your digestive system and keeps things moving.
  • Fibre Supplements and Laxatives: Over-the-counter options like fibre supplements and stool softeners can provide relief. However, consult your doctor before using them regularly.
  • Prescription Medications: In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe medications like lubiprostone or linaclotide.
  • Biofeedback Therapy: This therapy helps retrain the muscles involved in bowel movements.
  • Surgery: This is a rare option for severe chronic constipation cases that haven't responded to other treatments.

Preventing Constipation:

By adopting healthy habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of constipation and maintain a healthy digestive system:

  • Eat a High-Fiber Diet: Aim for 25-30 grams of fibre daily from various sources.
  • Drink Plenty of Water: Aim for at least eight glasses a day.
  • Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity, like 30 minutes of exercise most days.
  • Develop a Routine: Try to have bowel movements at a similar time each day.
  • Listen to Your Body: Don't ignore the urge to go.
  • Manage Stress: Stress can affect digestion. Techniques like yoga or meditation can help.

Sources:


Location: Australia

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Understanding Food Poisoning: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Image
Overview: Food poisoning, also known as foodborne illness , is a common yet serious condition caused by consuming contaminated food or beverages. It's an ailment that affects millions of people worldwide, leading to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe health complications. This blog aims to provide comprehensive information about food poisoning, including its causes, symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures. What is Food Poisoning? Food poisoning occurs when you consume food or drinks contaminated with infectious organisms or their toxins. These contaminants can include bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemical substances. The most common pathogens associated with food poisoning are: Salmonella Escherichia coli (E. coli) Listeria Norovirus Campylobacter Symptoms of Food Poisoning Symptoms of food poisoning can appear within hours of consuming contaminated food or may take days to manifest. Common symptoms include: Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Abdominal pain and cramps
Read more

Understanding Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, Relief, and Prevention

Image
                                                               credits: matrix pharma Overview Diarrhoeal disease is the third leading cause of death in children under 5 years old and is responsible for killing around 443,832 children every year. Diarrhoea can last several days and can leave the body without the water and salts that are necessary for survival. In the past, for most people, severe dehydration and fluid loss were the main causes of diarrhoea-associated deaths. Now, other causes such as septic bacterial infections are likely to account for an increasing proportion of all diarrhoea-associated deaths. Children who are malnourished or have impaired immunity, as well as people living with HIV, are most at risk of life-threatening diarrhoea. Diarrhoea is defined as the passage of 3 or more loose or liquid stools per day (or more frequent passage than is normal for the individual). Frequent passing of formed stools is not diarrhoea, nor is the passing of loose, pasty sto
Read more