Constipation affects various people and can be very painful. It is defined as difficulty having a poop fewer than three times a week. There are many possible causes of constipation. They may include diet, medications, and lifestyle factors. Nevertheless, you can look for effective constipation treatment if symptoms trouble you. The symptoms of such a condition can vary from person to person. However, the frequent among them may include-
- Difficulty passing stool
- Straining to pass stool
- Feelings like you have to go, but not being able to
- Hard or dry stools
- Pain when having a bowel movement
- Feeling bloated or gassy
What leads to defecation problems?
When people are constipated, they feel difficulties with bowel movements or lack of them. Most people experience it at least once. However, this is not a usual health problem, and you should address this condition thoroughly. Your doctor may help find well-working constipation treatment. However, possible causes for this condition are-
Dietary factors
For most people, constipation is caused by what they eat and drink. Some foods can cause constipation. On the other hand, others promote the laxative effect. The main dietary causes of bowel movements problems include-
- Lack of enough fibre in the diet
- Lack of liquids and fluids
- Dehydration
- Vitamin deficiency
- Excessive use of food additives or medications
Lifestyle habits
In addition, many people with a sedentary lifestyle or those who are physically inactive also tend to become constipated. It is mainly because their body does not demand movement, which stimulates the intestines, thus encouraging bowel movement. Besides lack of physical activity, the bad habit of withholding stool can cause constipation. It impedes the muscles of the intestinal tract from working the way, they should.
Intestinal Health
Many people with intestinal health problems, such as Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, pelvic floor dysfunction, and even anal fissures, may experience defecation problems. These health conditions can lead to narrowing or blockage of the intestine. Moreover, they lead to a slowed transit time of stool through the intestines, which changes the composition of the poop, making it harder to pass. Constipation treatment may rely upon your existing condition in such cases.
Medications and Supplements
Irregular and stiff bowel movements are a common side effect of many medications. They include painkillers, iron supplements, antacids containing calcium carbonate, and prescription medications for certain conditions. Such conditions may be Parkinson’s disease and depression. Additionally, some herbs and dietary supplements can also cause constipation.
Medical causes
The most common causes of constipation are related to the spine or nervous system. They include multiple sclerosis, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease. In such cases, a disorder of the central nervous system can cause paralysis of digestion. In addition, different forms of medications for the treatment of advanced cancer may cause bowel obstruction in some patients. They particularly include those with tumours in their intestinal tract. Moreover, a family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may be the basis for constipation. Such cases need medical attention.
What medications can help treat bowel obstruction?
Medications can be a very effective non-invasive constipation treatment. A variety of different medications exist those impact bowels. These medications help relieve the symptoms or slow down bowel movements. Some types are indicated for short-term use (generally less than two weeks). On the other hand, others are prescribed long-term. Your doctor may suggest one of these medications try out. It is not an all-inclusive list. However, most of the common ones that pertain to constipation are mentioned here. You can talk over them with your doctor or pharmacist.
What symptoms of bowel stiffness do these medications treat?
You must understand what symptoms the medication help treat. Moreover, it is significant to know cautions for taking the medication. Discuss all of these matters with your physician before taking a new medication. In many cases, your doctor may give you a prescription to try out for one week. If it works well, you can continue on that treatment regimen.
How can you prevent the defecation problem?
You can prevent or avoid hard stools by-
Drinking water
The body needs water to function. Moreover, water is also essential for the food and waste to go through your digestive system. If you do not drink enough water, your stools (poop) will get very dry and hard to pass through your bottom. This condition leads to bowel obstruction. Therefore, you should drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to help with constipation treatment.
Eating more fruit and vegetables
The fibre in fruit, vegetables, and whole-grain foods can soften your poop. Do not eat too much fat or sugar because they make your stools hard.
Do not have fizzy drinks
Drinking fizzy drinks can increase the pressure in your stomach and lead to constipation. Therefore, avoid them to prevent such a condition.
Getting into a normal pattern
It is best if you go to the toilet at the same time each day. It helps your body get used to having a bowel movement at that time.
Exercising regularly
Exercise helps to move food and waste through your digestive system.
