Constipation: Addressing The Condition

     Having hard stools or difficulty passing stool can lead to chronic constipation if left untreated. However, it is manageable if you understand the symptoms and easy prevention methods for daily life. Beyond just treating chronic constipation, it is important to know how to eat and live to stay free from this condition. Ramkhamhaeng Hospital is here to discuss with readers how to cope if they experience such symptoms.

Understanding Constipation

     Constipation is characterized by having fewer bowel movements than normal or being unable to pass stool for an extended time. While the frequency and behavior of bowel movements vary among individuals, in medical terms, it generally refers to having fewer than three bowel movements per week.

The Symptoms

Common signs of constipation include:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week or fewer than what is normal for you.
• Stools that are hard and pebble-like.
• A feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement.
• Difficulty passing stool, requiring straining or manual assistance, possibly accompanied by pain.
• Bloating, abdominal pain, or cramping.

Causes of Constipation

There are many potential causes of constipation, which can be broadly categorized into two types:

• Primary Constipation Usually related to changes in bowel physiology
• Secondary Constipation Caused by various factors, including:
• Medications Certain blood pressure medications and pain relievers
• Supplements Such as calcium or iron
• Endocrine Disorders Such as hypothyroidism
• Gastrointestinal Diseases Such as colorectal cancer

Treatments for Constipation

     Once a diagnosis of constipation is confirmed, specialists will treat it based on the underlying cause through various methods, including:

1.  Behavioral Modifications

• Respond to the urge to have a bowel movement immediately
• Do not wait for the urge to subside
• Sit comfortably while having a bowel movement
• Eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Exercise regularly and drink sufficient water.

2. Medications

• Laxatives, which come in various forms, such as:

  • Stimulant Laxatives**: Stimulate bowel muscle contractions.
  • Osmotic Laxatives**: Increase water content in the stool.
• Suppositories or enemas
• Newer medications, such as prokinetic agents or secretagogues, may be prescribed. It is essential to follow a doctor’s advice and not self-medicate.

3. Surgery

     Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases where the bowel’s slow movement does not improve with medication and there are confirmed abnormalities in the bowel’s muscle and nerve functions. Such decisions should be made by specialized healthcare professionals.

Preventing Constipation

Daily lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of constipation, such as:

• Eating a high-fiber diet
• Drinking enough water
• Regular exercise
• Managing stress
• Avoiding excessive use of laxatives

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Good bowel habits, such as establishing a regular toilet routine, not ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement, and not sitting on the toilet for too long, can also effectively prevent constipation.