Constipation can often be relieved with simple lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and maintaining a consistent bathroom routine. However, persistent or severe cases may require medical evaluation to identify underlying causes.
Constipation is a common digestive issue that occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult to pass. The frequency of bowel movements varies from person to person, ranging from three times a day to three times a week. However, the longer stool remains in the intestines, the harder and more challenging it becomes to pass. If you are experiencing persistent constipation, seeking expert advice can be beneficial. For personalised guidance, consider consulting the best gastroenterologist in Bangalore through Apollo 24|7. Read on to explore the symptoms, causes, and effective management strategies for constipation.
Symptoms of Constipation
Constipation symptoms can differ from person to person, but common signs include:
- Having fewer than three bowel movements per week.
- Difficulty and discomfort while passing stools.
- Hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass.
- Abdominal pain or discomfort.
- Straining with little or no success during bowel movements.
- A sensation of bloating.
Since these symptoms may also indicate other health conditions, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional such as the best gastroenterologist in Bangalore for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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Causes of Constipation
Constipation occurs when the colon absorbs excessive water from stool, making it dry, hard, and difficult to pass. Several factors contribute to this condition, including lifestyle habits, medications, and underlying medical conditions.
1. Lifestyle Factors Causing Constipation
Certain daily habits can increase the risk of constipation, such as:
- Inadequate water consumption leading to dehydration
- Low fiber intake
- Lack of physical activity
- Excessive consumption of dairy products like milk and cheese
- Changes in routine, including travel or irregular meal and sleep schedules
- Ignoring the urge to pass stools
- High stress levels
2. Medications
Some medications that may cause constipation include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen
- Strong pain relievers containing opioids like codeine and oxycodone
- Antidepressants, including SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants.
- Iron supplements
- Calcium or aluminum-based antacids
- Certain blood pressure medications, such as calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers
- Antihistamines used for allergies
- Seizure medications like phenytoin and gabapentin
- Anti-nausea drugs such as ondansetron
- Psychiatric drugs, including antipsychotics
If you suspect a medication is causing constipation, consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
3. Medical Conditions Causing Constipation
Several health conditions can also lead to constipation, including:
- Colorectal cancer
- Endocrine disorders like diabetes, hypothyroidism, and hypercalcemia
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Pelvic floor dysfunction affecting bowel movements
- Diverticulitis
- Conditions causing intestinal obstruction or slowed movement, such as neurological disorders (Parkinson’s disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis), intestinal pseudo-obstruction, and lazy bowel syndrome.
- Autoimmune diseases like lupus and scleroderma
- Structural abnormalities in the digestive tract
- Pregnancy-related hormonal changes
How is Constipation Treated?
Most cases of mild to moderate constipation can be managed at home with simple lifestyle adjustments. Start by evaluating your diet and hydration habits and making necessary changes.
- Reduce intake of fried foods, processed meats, and refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta. Opt for lean proteins such as poultry and low-fat dairy instead.
- Drink plenty of water—at least two to four extra glasses daily. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks that can dehydrate the body.
- Increase fiber intake by adding vegetables, whole grains, fruits, fiber-rich foods to your meals. Limit high-fat foods like eggs, red meat, and cheese.
- Eat fiber-rich options such as bran cereal, prunes, pineapples, berries, oranges, avocados, mangoes, and papayas.
- Keep a food journal to identify specific foods that may be causing constipation.
- Engage in regular physical activity to promote healthy digestion.
- Adjust your toilet posture—raising your feet, leaning back, or squatting can make bowel movements easier.
- Consider fibre supplements like psyllium husk or methylcellulose but start with small doses to avoid bloating.
- Use mild stool softeners or laxatives if needed, but avoid prolonged use without medical guidance. Overuse may worsen constipation.
- Avoid distractions like reading or using a phone while on the toilet.
- Respond to the urge to go immediately instead of delaying, as holding it in can make constipation worse over time.
- Certain medications and supplements may contribute to constipation. If you suspect this is the case, consult a healthcare professional. They may adjust the dosage or suggest an alternative treatment. Do not stop taking any prescribed medication without medical advice.
- Surgery is rarely required for constipation but may be considered if structural abnormalities in the colon are causing persistent issues. A doctor will determine whether surgical intervention is necessary based on the underlying cause.
Conclusion
Constipation is a common yet manageable condition that can be influenced by various lifestyle factors, medications, and underlying health issues. Making dietary changes, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and adopting healthy bowel habits can significantly improve symptoms. If constipation persists despite these efforts, seeking medical advice is essential to rule out any serious conditions. Consulting an expert can help identify the root cause and provide appropriate treatment. consulting an expert. For those wondering “who is the best gastroenterologist near me”, browse Apollo 24|7 to make appointments for online consultation with qualified experts.
