Can constipation cause right side pain. Common Causes of Side Pain: Identifying and Treating Abdominal Discomfort

13.10.202215.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the common causes of side pain. How can you differentiate between harmless and serious abdominal discomfort. What symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention for side pain.

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Understanding Side Pain: Symptoms and Potential Causes

Side pain, also known as flank pain or abdominal discomfort, is a common complaint that can stem from various underlying conditions. While some causes may be benign, others can indicate serious health issues requiring immediate medical attention.

Dr. Matthew Souder, a general surgeon at Geisinger, emphasizes the importance of paying attention to specific factors when experiencing side pain:

Does the pain intensify when standing or sitting?
Is it affected by breathing in or out?
Is the pain constant or does it come and go?
Are there accompanying symptoms like fever or severe discomfort?

By carefully observing these aspects, patients can provide valuable information to healthcare providers for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Appendicitis: A Common Cause of Right-Side Abdominal Pain

Appendicitis, the inflammation of the appendix, is a frequent cause of right-side abdominal pain. Understanding its symptoms can help differentiate it from other conditions and ensure prompt medical intervention.

Key Characteristics of Appendicitis Pain

Appendicitis pain typically:

Begins as a dull ache around the navel, shifting to the lower right abdomen
Starts suddenly, often waking people up at night
Intensifies significantly within a few hours
Precedes other symptoms like fever, nausea, and vomiting
Is associated with loss of appetite
Worsens with movement, deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing
Intensifies during jarring motions, such as driving over speed bumps

Diagnosing Appendicitis

How do doctors diagnose appendicitis? A physical examination is crucial in identifying this condition. During the exam, a healthcare provider may look for:

Rebound tenderness in the lower right abdomen
Guarding of the lower right abdomen when touched
Pain when applying resistance to the right knee while the patient lies on their back
Discomfort when moving the bent right knee left and right while lying down

Distinguishing Appendicitis from Other Conditions

While appendicitis is a common cause of right-side abdominal pain, it’s crucial to consider other potential conditions that may present similar symptoms.

Constipation and Right-Side Pain

Can constipation cause right-side pain? Yes, severe constipation can indeed lead to discomfort on the right side of the abdomen. The large intestine, which includes the ascending colon on the right side, can become impacted with stool, causing pain and discomfort.

How can you differentiate between constipation-related pain and appendicitis? Unlike appendicitis, constipation-related pain:

Often develops gradually
May be accompanied by bloating and difficulty passing stools
Can be relieved by bowel movements or passing gas
Typically doesn’t worsen significantly over a short period

Other Potential Causes of Right-Side Pain

What other conditions might cause right-side abdominal pain? Several other health issues can manifest as discomfort in this area:

Gallbladder problems (e.g., gallstones or cholecystitis)
Kidney stones or infections
Ovarian cysts or other gynecological issues in women
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
Hernias

When to Seek Medical Attention for Side Pain

Understanding when to seek medical help for side pain is crucial for preventing potential complications and ensuring timely treatment.

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

Which symptoms indicate a need for urgent medical care? Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe, persistent abdominal pain
Pain accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting
Abdominal pain with bloody stools or persistent diarrhea
Signs of dehydration (e.g., excessive thirst, dark urine, dizziness)
Pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep
Unexplained weight loss associated with abdominal discomfort

Diagnostic Approaches for Side Pain

How do healthcare providers diagnose the cause of side pain? The diagnostic process typically involves a combination of methods:

Physical Examination

A thorough physical exam allows doctors to assess the location, intensity, and nature of the pain. They may also check for signs of inflammation, tenderness, or abnormal masses.

Medical History

Providing a detailed medical history helps healthcare providers identify potential risk factors, previous conditions, or recent changes that might contribute to the pain.

Diagnostic Tests

Depending on the suspected cause, various diagnostic tests may be ordered:

Blood tests to check for infection or inflammation markers
Urine analysis to rule out urinary tract infections or kidney problems
Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans to visualize internal structures
Endoscopic procedures for a closer look at the digestive tract

Treatment Options for Side Pain

The treatment for side pain varies depending on the underlying cause. What are some common approaches to managing side pain?

Conservative Management

For mild cases or when the cause is benign, conservative treatments may include:

Rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain
Over-the-counter pain relievers
Heat or cold therapy
Dietary changes to address digestive issues
Gentle exercises or stretches as recommended by a healthcare provider

Medical Interventions

For more serious conditions, medical treatments may be necessary:

Antibiotics for infections
Prescription medications for specific conditions (e.g., antispasmodics for IBS)
Surgical procedures (e.g., appendectomy for appendicitis, cholecystectomy for gallbladder issues)
Drainage of abscesses or fluid collections

Preventing Side Pain and Maintaining Abdominal Health

While not all causes of side pain are preventable, certain lifestyle choices can promote overall abdominal health and reduce the risk of developing painful conditions.

Dietary Considerations

How can your diet impact abdominal health? A balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can support digestive health and prevent constipation. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Regular Exercise

Physical activity promotes overall health and can help maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related abdominal issues. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can exacerbate digestive issues and contribute to abdominal discomfort. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to promote relaxation and overall well-being.

Regular Check-ups

Routine medical check-ups can help identify potential health issues before they become severe. Don’t hesitate to discuss any persistent or recurring abdominal discomfort with your healthcare provider.

Understanding Chronic Abdominal Pain

While acute side pain often has an identifiable cause, some individuals experience chronic abdominal pain that persists for months or even years. What are some potential causes of chronic abdominal pain?

Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or functional dyspepsia can cause recurrent abdominal pain without clear structural abnormalities.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can lead to persistent abdominal pain and other digestive symptoms.

Abdominal Adhesions

Scar tissue from previous surgeries or inflammation can form adhesions that cause chronic pain.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Long-term inflammation of the pancreas can result in persistent abdominal pain and digestive issues.

Managing chronic abdominal pain often requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining medical treatments with lifestyle modifications and pain management strategies. Working closely with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan is essential for improving quality of life.

The Role of Imaging in Diagnosing Side Pain

Advanced imaging techniques play a crucial role in identifying the underlying causes of side pain. How do different imaging modalities contribute to the diagnostic process?

Ultrasonography

Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to create real-time images of internal organs. It’s particularly useful for examining the gallbladder, kidneys, and reproductive organs. Ultrasound is non-invasive, radiation-free, and can often be performed quickly in emergency settings.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scans

CT scans provide detailed cross-sectional images of the abdomen and pelvis. They are excellent for diagnosing conditions such as appendicitis, kidney stones, and abdominal abscesses. CT scans can also help identify tumors or other structural abnormalities.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of soft tissues. It’s particularly useful for evaluating the liver, pancreas, and reproductive organs. MRI doesn’t use radiation, making it a good option for patients who need repeated imaging studies.

X-rays

While less detailed than other imaging modalities, X-rays can still provide valuable information about the abdominal region. They’re often used as an initial screening tool and can help identify issues such as intestinal obstructions or perforations.

The choice of imaging technique depends on various factors, including the suspected condition, the patient’s age and medical history, and the urgency of the situation. Healthcare providers will consider these factors when determining the most appropriate imaging studies for each patient.

Special Considerations for Side Pain in Specific Populations

Side pain can manifest differently or have unique implications in certain populations. How does abdominal pain present in specific groups, and what special considerations should be taken into account?

Children and Adolescents

Abdominal pain in children can be challenging to diagnose due to their limited ability to describe symptoms accurately. Common causes of side pain in children include:

Appendicitis (often with atypical presentation)
Constipation
Urinary tract infections
Intussusception (in young children)
Functional abdominal pain disorders

Healthcare providers must consider the child’s age, developmental stage, and overall health when evaluating abdominal pain.

Pregnant Women

Abdominal pain during pregnancy can be concerning and requires careful evaluation. Potential causes include:

Round ligament pain (common and benign)
Ectopic pregnancy (requires immediate medical attention)
Preeclampsia
Placental abruption
Appendicitis or other acute abdominal conditions

Pregnant women experiencing persistent or severe abdominal pain should seek medical attention promptly to rule out serious complications.

Elderly Patients

Older adults may present with atypical symptoms of abdominal conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Special considerations for the elderly include:

Increased risk of serious conditions like mesenteric ischemia
Higher likelihood of complications from common conditions like appendicitis
Potential medication side effects causing abdominal discomfort
Chronic conditions that may mask acute symptoms

A thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history and careful physical examination, is crucial when assessing abdominal pain in elderly patients.

Immunocompromised Individuals

Patients with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with HIV/AIDS, may be at higher risk for certain abdominal conditions. These individuals may also present with atypical symptoms or rapidly progressing infections, necessitating prompt and thorough evaluation of any abdominal complaints.

Understanding these population-specific considerations helps healthcare providers tailor their diagnostic approach and treatment plans to ensure the best possible outcomes for all patients experiencing side pain.

Is It Appendicitis or Something Else?

Is It Appendicitis Pain or Something Else?

Most often, the pain you feel when you have appendicitis begins as a dull ache around your belly button that shifts to your lower right abdomen, where your appendix is located.

Additionally, appendicitis pain:

Begins suddenly — it often wakes people up at night.
Becomes significantly sharper in a matter of a few hours.
Starts before other co-occurring symptoms, such as fever, nausea, and vomiting
Is associated with loss of interest in eating.
Worsens when you move around, breathe deeply, cough, or sneeze.
Spikes when you drive over a speed bump or experience other jarring motions. (3)

To diagnose appendicitis, your doctor will perform a physical exam, which will investigate your abdominal symptoms more specifically.

If you have appendicitis, you will likely: (4)

Hurt when someone applies and then quickly releases pressure in your lower right abdomen, a symptom called “rebound tenderness. ”
Experience rebound tenderness in your lower right abdomen when someone applies and quickly releases pressure on the lower left side of your abdomen.
Unconsciously guard your lower right abdomen when someone tries to touch it.
Feel pain when someone applies resistance to your right knee as you try to lift that leg up while lying down on your back.
Ache in your abdomen when you move your bent right knee to the left and right while lying down on your back.

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Ouch! What’s That Pain in My Side?

Maybe it started off small. Maybe it suddenly came out of nowhere. Whatever it is, you’re having pain in your side. But where did it come from? And should you be worried?

“Pain in your side or in your abdomen is a common complaint, and it’s a common reason for people to visit the emergency room,” explains Matthew Souder, MD, a general surgeon at Geisinger.

But the cause of your pain can range from harmless to serious, and it’s not always easy to pin down. Here are a few things to look out for.

Common causes of side pain

To help narrow down what’s behind the pain, Dr. Souder suggests paying attention to a few specific factors.

“If you’re having pain in your side, keep track of it and see what aggravates it,” says Dr. Souder. “Does it hurt more when you stand or sit? When you breathe in or breathe out? Does it always hurt the same amount or is it off and on?”

Having severe pain, fever, swelling and tenderness of the abdomen, bloody stools, yellowing of the skin or persistent nausea and vomiting are nothing to brush off, though. See a doctor immediately for any of these symptoms.

Some common causes include:

Gas and constipation

The most common reason for the pain in your side is what you ate or drank. Gas or constipation is usually the biggest false alarm when it comes to abdominal pain. Each can cause fairly strong pain, but they usually aren’t harmful.

Gas and constipation pains can happen throughout your abdomen, and they can usually be identified by their inconsistency: it may come and go, and it will change depending on how you’re sitting or standing. The pain should subside within an hour or shortly after a bowel movement.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common condition that affects the large intestine by causing spasms. You can feel this pain throughout your belly area, but most people notice it in their lower abdomen.

“Cases of IBS can range anywhere from mild to severe, and it often runs in families,” notes Dr. Souder. “Factors like food, stress and hormones can trigger IBS, causing symptoms like cramps, pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. ”

If you have IBS symptoms, talk to your doctor. They can diagnose whether you do have IBS and prescribe medication if necessary.

Stones

Stones aren’t just something you find outside — they may show up in your kidneys or your gallbladder, too.

Kidney stones are deposits of salt and minerals that can form and harden in your kidneys. Gallstones are deposits made from cholesterol and bile. Gallstone pain is usually felt on the right side, while kidney stones can be felt on either side.

“Kidney stones and gallstones can cause excruciating pain,” says Dr. Sounder. “You may pass kidney stones naturally, but in more severe cases, they may require surgery. Talk to your doctor if you have severe, radiating pain that lasts for more than a day.”

Appendicitis

Pain (especially on your right side) paired with fever, vomiting and loss of appetite could indicate appendicitis, which requires emergency medical attention.

“One of the most serious reasons for abdominal pain is appendicitis,” adds Dr. Souder. “Appendicitis, or an infection of the appendix, can be a life-threatening condition. It’s considered a medical emergency, and surgery is required to remove the appendix.”

Urinary tract infection

If your side pain is accompanied by painful urination and needing to use the bathroom often, it might be a urinary tract infection (UTI). This bacterial infection is extremely common, especially in women, and it’s best to see a doctor for treatment.

Muscle or joint injuries

Strained muscles, arthritis or spinal injuries can all cause pain that spreads from your back to your side. If your pain is muscular, a combination of rest and light stretching exercises could help. If nothing seems to help, it’s time to talk to your doctor.

Shingles

Did you have chickenpox as a kid? If so, side pain might be the first sign of a shingles infection. Despite the common myth, shingles affects people of all ages, causing intense pain on one side of the body and a blistering rash.

Early detection can help reduce your pain and the length of the infection — let your primary care provider know as soon as you suspect shingles, even if a rash hasn’t formed yet.

When to see a doctor

Pinpointing the cause of your discomfort starts with paying attention to your body. Whether it’s something as simple as gas or more serious like appendicitis, sharing what you’ve noticed with your doctor can help them come up with the best treatment plan for you.

“If the pain is severe or interrupting your ability to go about your day, get medical attention,” says Dr. Souder. “Even if it isn’t anything dangerous, it’s still better to be sure.”

Next steps:

What are the signs of a hernia?
Reasons you might be gassy
Are you getting enough fiber?

Constipation pain – causes and treatment

Pain in constipation
Pain in constipation – causes and treatment | Phytomucil Norm
What to do with abdominal pain with constipation? What are the causes of pain with constipation in an adult, what prevention and treatment are needed – in the article. Phytomucil Norm – official site
Phytomucil Norm

Pain with constipation is one of the main symptoms, although they are not a criterion for determining the delay in defecation in general. Many patients associate the onset of pain with difficulty defecation.

Can the stomach hurt from constipation

Constipation (colostasis) is characterized by difficulty in defecation, low frequency of stools, insufficient bowel movements. Signs of constipation also include the absence of a bowel movement for two days or more, hard dry stools. Other signs may be observed – symptoms of general intoxication, excessive sweating, general poor health, headaches. Problems with bowel movements are often accompanied by pain in the abdomen, rectum and stomach. All this causes physical discomfort and may indicate the presence of serious diseases.

Why constipation hurts

As a result of impaired mobility, feces accumulate inside the intestines, which gradually provokes intoxication. The accumulated stool presses on the walls of the intestine, causing pain. In addition, with constipation, gas formation increases, the discharge of gases is disturbed. It also causes pain and discomfort. In some cases, pain can be felt not only in the lower abdomen, but also on the right, on the left, as well as in the region of the right hypochondrium and lower back.

Researchers note that the acute pain associated with constipation is more likely to result from spasms. So, Shulpekova draws attention to the fact that stool retention is accompanied by “pains of a spastic nature.” (Shulpekova Yu. O., 2007, p. 1165). Indeed, spasms of smooth muscles that occur in response to a mechanical stimulus in the form of dense feces and accumulated gases are felt by us as cramps, cramping pains. Localization of pain in this case can be completely different. It all depends on the specific section of the intestine that is affected at the moment, as well as when exposed to other factors earlier.

Causes of constipation pain

Defecation disorders occur for various reasons:

Improper diet and sedentary lifestyle. Due to the imbalance of the diet and insufficient physical activity, motor skills are disturbed, an imbalance of microflora occurs. As a result, constipation appears.
Abnormalities in the development of the colon – long colon and / or sigmoid colon.
Diverticular disease of the colon.
Diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. As a result of these diseases, physiological obstacles appear that impede the movement of feces.
Diseases of the nervous system, endocrine and gynecological pathologies – inhibit metabolic processes in the body.
Irritable bowel syndrome – discomfort during bowel movements, accompanied by a change in the consistency and / or frequency of the stool.
Taking certain medications.

Constipation is often associated with antidepressants, antibiotics and other medications. Also, problems with bowel movements often occur during pregnancy, after childbirth and in the postoperative period.

Signs of intestinal stasis indicating serious pathology include blood in the stool, severe abdominal distention (tympanitis), weight loss, and vomiting.

Therefore, as we see, the causes of pain in constipation may be hidden in the causes of defecation disorders themselves. In the absence of organic and other pathologies, discomfort may be associated with tissue compression, stretching of the intestinal walls and their resistance to pressure, and irritation of receptors. Sometimes pain is accompanied by false urges to defecate and urges that did not bring the desired result. In most cases, pain can occur in the interval between urges, and in their absence.

Possible complications of constipation

Frequent constipation may be accompanied by heaviness in the abdomen and pain before, during or after a bowel movement. Such problems can lead to unpleasant consequences. The most frequent complications: +

poisoning of the body;
exacerbation of hemorrhoids;
rectal fissures;
cancer risk.

General intoxication due to stagnant feces can cause a deterioration in well-being, a decrease in working capacity. Violation of the intestinal microbial balance in chronic constipation leads to an exacerbation of allergic diseases, skin rashes, and a decrease in the body’s resistance to infections.

People with chronic constipation are known to have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. Delayed bowel movements lead to impaired cholesterol metabolism and the development of atherosclerosis, and consequently, cardiovascular diseases.

Diseases of the anorectal region often accompany constipation. This is due to the fact that dense fecal masses injure the mucous membranes of the rectum, which causes anal fissures. An increase in intra-abdominal pressure can lead to the formation of hemorrhoids.

How pain manifests itself

Pain in constipation occurs due to the accumulation of stool in the large intestine. Dense feces stretch the intestinal walls, resulting in compression and disruption of other internal organs.

The discomfort associated with constipation varies. Pain can occur in the abdomen, sphincter area, lower back, groin. Soreness during the act of defecation often occurs due to the appearance of cracks in the anal area, the development of hemorrhoids, and inflammation of the rectum. Pain often appears during the urge to empty, as well as between them.

Sometimes the pain of constipation in adults comes on suddenly during a bowel movement. This is due to diseases of the digestive tract: pancreatitis, appendicitis, cholecystitis. Only a doctor can determine the true cause of constipation and pain. If bowel problems are permanent, it is best to undergo a complete medical examination.

Character pain

When constipation occurs, pain sensations differ in severity and localization. If the lower abdomen hurts, then most likely constipation is caused by dietary errors, insufficient water intake. As a rule, the pain is dull, stabbing, accompanied by colic and rumbling. In this case, discomfort disappears immediately after defecation.

Acute and aching pain with constipation that does not go away after a bowel movement may indicate pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. The localization of pain depends on the cause of its occurrence. For example, in acute gastritis, the epigastric region hurts, heartburn and nausea are observed. For intestinal obstruction, the nature of pain in the left side, as well as fever. Chronic pancreatitis is accompanied by girdle or severe pain in the left or right hypochondrium.

Pain syndrome is often accompanied by loss of appetite, headache, heartburn, bad breath. In addition, with constipation, there is often a feeling of fullness, a feeling of a plug in the rectum. Hard stool damages the walls of the rectum and sphincter, hence causing pain that can persist long after a bowel movement.

Adnexal inflammation and other gynecological problems can also cause constipation. Problems with the intestines often occur against the background of kidney disease. In this case, the pain will be localized in the lumbar region, as well as in the lower abdomen.

Cramping pains resulting from spasms of the smooth muscles of the intestines, appear due to the accumulation of gases and intestinal colic. This greatly complicates the defecation process. With intestinal colic, the pain is pronounced and has an increasing character. With colic, tension in the muscles of the anterior abdominal wall, bloating and spasms are observed. This condition can last from several hours to several days. Colic is usually followed by persistent constipation or diarrhea.

Symptoms such as flatulence, bloating and constipation are often associated with irritable bowel syndrome. IBS is manifested by pain and bloating, which are accompanied by a change in the consistency of the stool.

The severity of unpleasant symptoms depends on the cause of constipation. This state of affairs cannot be left to chance. The first thing to do when unpleasant symptoms appear is to visit a general practitioner or gastroenterologist. The doctor will conduct the necessary diagnostics, prescribe tests and examinations to identify factors that provoke problems with defecation.

How to deal with constipation pain

Pain can only be completely eliminated after the main cause of constipation has been eliminated. No need to try to drown out the pain with painkillers – analgesics only stop the symptoms. The pain syndrome will pass on its own after cleansing and restoring normal bowel function.

Treatment for pain associated with constipation

In the fight against pain associated with constipation will help:

Nutrition aimed at increasing the amount of fiber consumed. Diet is the main treatment for functional constipation caused by decreased intestinal motility.
Lifestyle change. It involves increased physical activity, regular physical activity.
Withdrawal of constipating drugs.

It is important to understand that it is not worth canceling the medicines prescribed by the doctor on your own. For example, if you are taking iron supplements that cause you to have a bowel movement, changing your dosage or stopping it on your own could make your iron deficiency anemia worse. Consult your physician for advice on alternative medications or dosage adjustments. Particular care should be taken when taking hormonal drugs, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, narcotic analgesics.

The main condition for getting rid of pain in the abdomen with constipation is the normalization of the stool. Symptomatic treatment in the form of taking painkillers and antispasmodics will not give a long-term result. In addition, it is worth remembering that in some cases constipation is associated with a weakening of intestinal motility – a change in the tone of its muscles. In this case, anti-spasm agents may exacerbate the underlying problem.

Foods high in fiber will help normalize stools. These include bran, white cabbage (fresh and sauerkraut), celery and other vegetables. Whole grains, such as bulgur and buckwheat, as well as nuts are rich in dietary fiber.

At the same time, it is better to avoid products that have a fixing effect. These include foods high in tannin: chocolate, black tea, red wine, white rice, etc. You should avoid pastries, sweets, bread and confectionery with cream – they increase gas formation and also provoke fermentation in the intestines.

Eat small meals, but often. Fractional nutrition 5-6 times a day will ensure a uniform supply of nutrients to the body, help to avoid stretching the walls of the stomach and intestines.

Medication should not be aimed at eliminating pain, but at its cause. Pain usually goes away with a bowel movement, so it is important to find the right way to quickly get rid of the problem. Laxatives can help with this. They are of several types:

Osmotic, or saline, increase the volume of fluid in the intestines.
Stimulants – act irritatingly on intestinal receptors, stimulating peristalsis.
Volumetric – increase the volume of feces and change their consistency.
Auxiliary – mechanically help the promotion of feces in the intestines (for example, oils).

There are also local preparations that irritate the mucous membranes of the rectum and soften the passage of feces. The use of cleansing enemas may also be appropriate, but often it is not recommended to resort to them due to possible violations of the local microflora.

Prevention of constipation pain

For the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, you need to drink enough water – at least 1.5-2 liters per day. If constipation is associated with a reduced tone of the intestinal muscles and is accompanied by spasms, it is recommended to drink cold mineral water. One glass of water on an empty stomach and before each meal will improve the consistency of feces and facilitate their passage through the intestines.

Also, water is involved in the process of diffusion of gases – part of the gases is absorbed from the intestines into the blood, so the optimal drinking regimen is effective as a way to prevent flatulence, including those associated with constipation.

It is important to avoid overeating and sudden dietary changes. It is necessary to minimize stress, observe sleep patterns. The researchers argue that following a daily routine will help prevent constipation: you should get up and go to bed at about the same time, allocate enough time to go to the toilet in the morning, after breakfast. In no case is it recommended to restrain the urge to defecate, as this can lead to both constipation and a decrease in the sensitivity of the gut receptors to stretch.

Recommendations regarding the diet for existing constipation also apply to prevention: try to eat enough foods rich in fiber, make your diet from lean meats and fish, cereals, dairy products, fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, berries.

Regular preventive visits to the doctor will help to exclude diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or detect them at an early stage. This is especially important if you are at risk for the development of disorders – you have an endocrine disease, pathologies of the digestive system, are limited in physical activity, etc.

You can prevent severe pain from constipation by observing your body: determine the optimal frequency of bowel movements, ideally, bowel movements should be every morning. If you hold a stool for at least one day, try to take immediate action if possible: increase the amount of fluid you drink, choose foods with a laxative effect.

Other methods of dealing with constipation

In most cases, pain disappears after the intestines are cleared of accumulated feces. But this is not always the case. If the pain persists and causes severe discomfort, you should visit a doctor. Only a specialist can determine what provokes pain.

Proper balanced nutrition is an excellent prevention of constipation. But this is not always enough to combat defecation disorders. To cope with constipation will help special means with a laxative effect. Among the safest preparations in terms of composition, Fitomucil Norm can be distinguished. It contains the pulp of the fruit of the house plum and the shell of the seeds of the psyllium. The drug provides regular and painless bowel movements, restores the normal frequency of stools. The remedy acts gently, does not cause bloating, sudden urge to defecate, does not provoke spasms and pain in the intestines. “Fitomucil Norm” helps to restore the microflora after constipation and is not addictive.

To improve the condition with severe constipation, you can use ready-made microclysters or glycerin suppositories. In some cases, it is advisable to use osmotic laxatives, drugs that soften the stool, as well as drugs to stimulate peristalsis. Any medications should be taken only in consultation with the doctor. The dosage is selected individually, taking into account the age and health of the patient.

Systematic exercise helps improve bowel function. For example, daily walking, swimming, cycling or gymnastics. There are exercises that improve intestinal motility, increase the tone of the abdominal muscles. In this case, the duration of training should be at least half an hour.

If you feel the urge to defecate, do not delay going to the toilet. Otherwise, compaction and stagnation of feces will occur, which will negatively affect the condition. If colostasis is accompanied by pain, general malaise, nausea and vomiting, rectal bleeding, or fever, you should immediately consult a doctor.

It is important to consult your doctor about constipation pain. There may be certain limitations, and only a specialist will tell you how to deal with the problem.

The article is for informational purposes only. The authors are not responsible for the quality of services provided by third parties and for possible complications.

References

Norton J. Greenberger, MD, Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Last full review/revision May 2018 by Norton J. Greenberger, MD.
Pimanov S. I., Silivonchik N. N. Functional gastrointestinal disorders: Rome IV Consensus: A Manual for Physicians. – Vitebsk: VSMU, 2016.
Andreev D. N., Dicheva D. T. Optimization of the treatment of patients with irritable bowel syndrome: focus on improving compliance // Medical Council. – 2019. – No. 3. — pp. 118–124.
Makarenko EV Irritable bowel syndrome: dietary recommendations and principles of treatment // Bulletin of VSMU. – 2017. – T. 16, No. 6.
Shulpekova Yu.O. Algorithm for the treatment of constipation of various origins // Regular issues of BC. – 2007. – No. 15. – page 1165.

Norton J. Greenberger, MD, Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Last full review/revision May 2018 by Norton J. Greenberger, MD.
Pimanov S. I., Silivonchik N. N. Functional gastrointestinal disorders: Rome IV Consensus: A Manual for Physicians. — Vitebsk: VSMU, 2016.
Andreev D. N., Dicheva D. T. Optimization of treatment of patients with irritable bowel syndrome: focus on improving compliance // Medical Council. – 2019. – No. 3. — pp. 118–124.
Makarenko EV Irritable bowel syndrome: dietary recommendations and principles of treatment // Bulletin of VSMU. – 2017. – T. 16, No. 6.
Shulpekova Yu.O. Algorithm for the treatment of constipation of various origins // Regular issues of BC. – 2007. – No. 15. – page 1165.

Why my right side hurts and what to do about it

Likbez

Health

May 24

Lifehacker figured out how dangerous it is and when to call an ambulance.

Any pain in the right side is a reason to visit a doctor: too many serious diseases can be associated with it. During an attack, you can guess the source of pain by the location of the organs. But you won’t find out the exact reason yourself: sometimes it hurts in one place, but gives it away in another.

Vera Serezina

Senior physician, medical expert of the personalized medicine laboratory “LabQuest”

Only a doctor can determine what caused the pain in the right side. There are the gallbladder, pancreas, ascending colon, liver. So you need to check in any case, even if you think that you don’t have anything serious.

When to call an ambulance

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden and severe pain. Do not wait for the appearance of other dangerous symptoms, in some cases it can end in death.

Also call an ambulance if the pain is not severe, but there are these signs:

fever;
there is blood in the stool;
pain worse;
you feel sick or vomit.

Why my right side hurts

1. Appendicitis

This is the name of inflammation of the appendix, a small process of the large intestine. The first sign of appendicitis is a dull pain near the navel or in the upper part of the abdomen, which descends along its right side surface and becomes acute.

Pain may be accompanied by loss of appetite and fever up to 37–39 °C, nausea and vomiting, bloating.