What are the unexpected causes of constipation. How do medications like antidepressants and painkillers contribute to bowel issues. Can medical conditions such as hypothyroidism lead to chronic constipation. What role does pregnancy play in digestive health. How can high blood pressure medications affect bowel movements.

Understanding Constipation: More Than Just Diet and Lifestyle

Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects people of all ages. While occasional constipation is often attributed to diet, travel, or lack of physical activity, chronic constipation can have surprising underlying causes. This article explores 13 unexpected factors that may contribute to persistent bowel problems, ranging from medical conditions to medications.

The Thyroid-Gut Connection: How Hormonal Imbalances Affect Digestion

Thyroid disorders can have a significant impact on digestive health, often leading to constipation. But how exactly does this gland influence our bowel movements?

Hypothyroidism and Constipation

Hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, is a common cause of chronic constipation. The thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including the digestive system. When thyroid hormone levels are low, it can slow down the movement of food through the intestines, resulting in constipation.

• Decreased gut motility
• Reduced intestinal secretions
• Weakened muscle contractions in the digestive tract

If you’re experiencing persistent constipation, it’s worth discussing thyroid function with your healthcare provider. A simple blood test can detect thyroid abnormalities, and proper treatment can often alleviate constipation symptoms.

Hyperparathyroidism: An Often Overlooked Cause

While less common than hypothyroidism, hyperparathyroidism can also contribute to constipation. This condition occurs when the parathyroid glands, located near the thyroid, produce excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone. The increased calcium levels resulting from hyperparathyroidism can lead to various digestive issues, including constipation.

Medication-Induced Constipation: The Hidden Side Effects

Many people are unaware that the medications they take for various health conditions can be a significant contributor to constipation. Let’s explore some common culprits:

Prescription Painkillers and Opioids

Opioid-induced constipation is a well-known side effect of these powerful pain medications. How do opioids cause constipation? These drugs slow down the natural contractions of the intestines, making it difficult for waste to move through the digestive system. Additionally, opioids can decrease the secretion of fluids in the intestines, leading to harder, drier stools.

For patients recovering from surgery or managing chronic pain, this side effect can significantly impact their quality of life. Healthcare providers are actively researching alternative pain management strategies and medications that may reduce the risk of constipation.

Antidepressants and Bowel Function

Certain classes of antidepressants, particularly tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), are known to cause constipation. These medications interfere with the transmission of nerve signals that stimulate bowel movements. While newer antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are less likely to cause constipation, it can still occur in some individuals.

If you’re experiencing constipation while taking antidepressants, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting your medication or adding a gentle laxative to your regimen.

Antacids: A Double-Edged Sword

Ironically, the very medications used to treat heartburn and indigestion can sometimes lead to constipation. Antacids containing aluminum are particularly notorious for this side effect. The aluminum can bind to phosphate in the digestive tract, forming compounds that are difficult to pass, resulting in harder stools and constipation.

If you frequently use antacids and experience constipation, consider switching to a different type of antacid or exploring alternative treatments for your acid reflux symptoms. It’s also worth noting that frequent antacid use may indicate an underlying condition like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Cardiovascular Health and Constipation: The Surprising Link

Did you know that medications used to treat high blood pressure can sometimes lead to constipation? This unexpected connection highlights the complex interplay between different bodily systems.

Diuretics and Their Impact on Bowel Function

Diuretics, often prescribed to manage high blood pressure, work by increasing urine output to reduce fluid volume in the body. However, this can have unintended consequences on digestive health. How do diuretics contribute to constipation?

1. Dehydration: By increasing urine production, diuretics can lead to overall body dehydration.
2. Electrolyte imbalance: Diuretics affect the balance of salts and minerals in the body.
3. Reduced intestinal water content: The body may absorb more water from the intestines to compensate for fluid loss.

These factors combined can result in harder, drier stools that are difficult to pass. It’s important to note that simply drinking more water may not solve the problem, as the excess fluid will likely be excreted through urine. If you’re experiencing constipation while taking diuretics, consult your healthcare provider about potential medication adjustments or the addition of a gentle laxative.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Constipation: A Counterintuitive Connection

When most people think of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), they often associate it with diarrhea. However, in some cases, particularly with Crohn’s disease affecting the small intestine, constipation can be a significant issue. How does IBD lead to constipation in these instances?

• Intestinal narrowing: Inflammation and scarring can create strictures in the bowel.
• Altered gut motility: Inflammation can disrupt normal intestinal contractions.
• Pain and discomfort: Patients may avoid bowel movements due to pain.

Managing constipation in IBD patients often requires a multifaceted approach, including medication adjustments, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgical intervention. It’s crucial for individuals with IBD to work closely with their gastroenterologist to address any persistent constipation symptoms.

Pregnancy and Digestive Health: Navigating Constipation During Nine Months

Pregnancy brings about numerous changes in a woman’s body, and the digestive system is no exception. Constipation is a common complaint among pregnant women, but what causes this uncomfortable symptom?

Hormonal Changes and Their Impact on Digestion

During early pregnancy, hormonal shifts, particularly the increase in progesterone, can slow down intestinal motility. This hormone relaxes smooth muscles throughout the body, including those in the digestive tract, leading to slower transit of food and waste.

Physical Changes and Bowel Function

As the pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus puts pressure on the intestines, potentially contributing to constipation. Additionally, the body’s increased demand for fluids and the tendency to absorb more water from the intestines can result in harder stools.

Managing pregnancy-related constipation requires a delicate balance. It’s essential to avoid straining during bowel movements, as this can lead to hemorrhoids, another common pregnancy complaint. Pregnant women should always consult their obstetrician before using any laxatives or constipation remedies.

Diabetes and Digestive Health: The Lesser-Known Complications

While diabetes is primarily known for its effects on blood sugar levels, it can also have significant impacts on digestive health, including constipation. But how exactly does diabetes contribute to bowel problems?

Neuropathy and Gut Function

One of the long-term complications of diabetes is neuropathy, or nerve damage. This can affect the nerves controlling the digestive system, leading to slower gut motility and constipation. Diabetic neuropathy can impact various parts of the digestive tract, from the esophagus to the colon, potentially causing a range of gastrointestinal issues.

Dehydration and Blood Sugar Control

High blood sugar levels can lead to increased urination as the body attempts to flush out excess glucose. This can result in dehydration, which in turn can contribute to constipation. Managing blood sugar levels effectively is crucial not only for overall health but also for maintaining proper digestive function.

Medications and Dietary Factors

Some medications used to treat diabetes, such as metformin, can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including constipation in some individuals. Additionally, dietary changes often recommended for diabetes management, such as increased fiber intake, can sometimes lead to temporary constipation if not implemented gradually.

For individuals with diabetes experiencing chronic constipation, it’s essential to work closely with healthcare providers to address both blood sugar control and digestive health. This may involve adjusting medications, fine-tuning diet and fluid intake, and incorporating appropriate physical activity.

The Paradox of Laxatives: When Relief Becomes the Problem

While laxatives are designed to provide relief from constipation, their long-term or improper use can paradoxically lead to chronic constipation. This phenomenon highlights the importance of understanding how different types of laxatives work and their potential long-term effects on digestive health.

Stimulant Laxatives and Tolerance

Stimulant laxatives, such as castor oil or senna, work by irritating the lining of the intestines to promote bowel movements. However, prolonged use can lead to a dependency, where the bowel becomes less responsive to normal stimuli. How does this tolerance develop?

• Decreased natural bowel contractions
• Altered electrolyte balance in the colon
• Potential damage to nerve endings in the intestines

Over time, individuals may find they need increasing doses of stimulant laxatives to achieve the same effect, potentially exacerbating the cycle of dependency and constipation.

Safer Alternatives for Long-Term Use

For those requiring long-term constipation management, osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia or polyethylene glycol (Miralax) may be safer options. These work by drawing water into the intestines, softening stool and promoting easier passage without directly stimulating the bowel.

It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting any long-term laxative regimen. They can help identify the underlying cause of chronic constipation and recommend the most appropriate treatment strategy.

Recognizing When Constipation Requires Medical Attention

While occasional constipation is common and often resolves on its own, certain symptoms or patterns may indicate a need for medical evaluation. How can you distinguish between normal variations in bowel habits and potentially serious issues?

Red Flags for Serious Constipation

Dr. Benjamin Krevsky, a gastroenterologist at Temple University, emphasizes that certain characteristics of constipation warrant prompt medical attention:

• Sudden onset of constipation without apparent cause
• Changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few days
• Constipation accompanied by rectal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss alongside constipation
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping

These symptoms could potentially indicate more serious conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, or even colon cancer. Early detection and treatment of these conditions are crucial for optimal outcomes.

The Importance of Regular Screenings

For individuals over 50 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer, regular screenings are essential. These can help detect any abnormalities or potential issues before they become more serious problems. Colonoscopies and other screening methods not only look for cancer but can also identify other causes of chronic constipation, such as structural abnormalities in the colon.

Remember, while many causes of constipation are benign and manageable, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to persistent digestive issues. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Chronic Constipation

While medical interventions are sometimes necessary, many cases of chronic constipation can be managed or improved through lifestyle modifications and holistic approaches. What strategies can help promote regular, healthy bowel movements?

Dietary Modifications for Digestive Health

A diet rich in fiber is often the first line of defense against constipation. However, it’s important to increase fiber intake gradually to avoid discomfort or bloating. Some effective dietary strategies include:

• Incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Staying well-hydrated with water and non-caffeinated beverages
• Limiting processed foods and those high in fat or sugar
• Considering probiotic-rich foods to support gut health

The Role of Physical Activity

Regular exercise can significantly improve digestive health and reduce the risk of constipation. Physical activity stimulates intestinal contractions and can help move waste through the colon more efficiently. Even moderate activities like brisk walking or yoga can have beneficial effects on bowel function.

Stress Management and Digestive Health

The gut-brain connection is well-established, and stress can have a significant impact on digestive function. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or regular relaxation practices can help promote overall digestive health and regularity.

Natural Remedies and Supplements

Some individuals find relief from constipation through natural remedies or supplements. These may include:

• Psyllium husk or other soluble fiber supplements
• Magnesium citrate
• Certain herbal teas like senna or dandelion root

However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

By adopting a holistic approach that addresses diet, physical activity, stress management, and overall lifestyle, many individuals can effectively manage chronic constipation and improve their digestive health. Remember that what works for one person may not work for another, so it may take some trial and error to find the right combination of strategies for your individual needs.

13 Surprising Causes of Constipation

Everyone is affected by constipation now and then — your diet, travel, and a lack of activity can all trigger a brief bout.

But you might be surprised by the conditions and other factors that can be responsible for longer term or chronic constipation. The list is wide-ranging, from pregnancy constipation to a side effect of antidepressants.

Some of these causes of constipation can be handled at home with an over-the-counter product or changes in your medicine cabinet, but serious constipation warrants a prompt doctor’s visit.

“Constipation that’s new, different, associated with bleeding or weight loss, and lasts a couple of days may be a sign of colon cancer,” says gastroenterologist Benjamin Krevsky, MD, associate chief of the section of gastroenterology at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pa.

But since there are several more common causes of constipation that aren’t as serious, don’t worry too much. Your doctor can help you determine what’s really behind your constipation.

Sneaky Causes of Constipation

Here’s an overview of some of the conditions that may be to blame for your discomfort:

• Hypothyroidism. “The thyroid is a general regulator and affects organs all over the body,” explains Dr. Krevsky. This includes the bowel. Your family doctor might miss this, but a gastroenterologist who sees this effect several times a year will probably test you for hyperthyroidism and can treat it to relieve your chronic constipation.
• Hyperparathyroidism. Less common than hypothyroidism, an overactive parathyroid — a gland close to the thyroid — can also be a cause of constipation. Simple testing and treatment will also bring relief.
• Prescription painkillers. Opioids — not over-the-counter pain relievers — can cause constipation. For people recovering from surgery or managing chronic pain, this side effect can be an obstacle to quality of life (or possibly, hospital discharge). Solutions include taking different pain medications or adding a laxative. Krevsky explains that research in this area is progressing and within the next several years doctors might have new medications to treat pain without causing constipation.
• Laxatives. Ironically, the laxative you are taking could ultimately lead to chronic constipation. Your body builds up a tolerance to medications that act as stimulant laxatives, such as castor oil. Technically, says Krevsky, they aren’t causing constipation so much as failing to ease it. A better bet for laxatives that won’t lead to tolerance is milk of magnesia or polyethylene glycol (Miralax).
• Antidepressants. Constipation was one of the unpleasant side effects of an older class of antidepressants called tricyclics. “That’s because they interfere with the transmission of nerves that stimulate the bowel to move,” says Krevsky. Constipation is a much less common but still possible side effect of the more modern SSRI antidepressants. Talk to your doctor about whether you should take a different antidepressant or add a laxative.
• Antacids. So you have heartburn and now, to add to your misery, constipation sets in. Antacids that contain aluminum are the likely culprit, says Krevsky. Read the ingredient list and make a switch if necessary. Try an over-the-counter acid controller medication, or better yet, talk to your doctor. If you take antacids often enough to get chronic constipation, you should probably be tested for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• High blood pressure medications. Chronic constipation is a side effect of an older class of high blood pressure medications called diuretics, which act on the salt in your body to control fluid levels. “You get dehydrated and your body steals moisture from the stool,” says Krevsky. You cannot compensate by drinking more water than you need — you’ll just lose it through urination. The solution is to talk to your doctor about a switch in blood pressure medication or adding a laxative.
• Irritable bowel disease (IBD). Though diarrhea is more associated with IBD, some people with Crohn’s disease that affects the small bowel will get chronic constipation. In this case, you need more aggressive therapy for the IBD or surgery, says Krevsky.
• Pregnancy. Pregnancy constipation is a common problem. Early in pregnancy, constipation may be caused by changing hormones or your diet; in later months, the pressure that the baby is putting on your organs becomes the culprit. Don’t strain, warns Krevsky, because this can cause hemorrhoids, which will just make you more uncomfortable. And don’t take a laxative without talking to your ob-gyn first.
• Diabetes. People who have diabetes face a number of potential health problems, including chronic constipation. “This is in large part due to the nerve inflammation that goes along with being a diabetic,” Krevsky says. Solutions include getting better control of diabetes to prevent more damage and talking to your doctor about medication to fight constipation.
• Heavy metal poisoning. Many family doctors don’t think about lead poisoning as a cause of constipation, but a work-up occasionally reveals significant exposure to lead, which can come from chipping old paint and other sources of exposure at home. Nerve damage is one of the outcomes of heavy metal poisoning, and this can affect the normal function of the bowels.
• Supplements. Calcium supplements and iron supplements both can cause constipation. If you suspect either one, get a recommendation from your doctor for a better way to supplement if you are truly deficient.
• Diseases of the colon. Any painful colon problem, such as an anal fissure or hemorrhoids, can cause chronic constipation because people avoid bowel movements and “detrain their bowel to work properly,” Krevsky explains. Treating the underlying cause can end this type of constipation.

Finally, Krevsky suggests, it’s possible that you don’t actually have constipation at all. He explains that while many people have a bowel movement regularly, such as once or twice a day, there are others who only do so two or three times a week — and they are just fine. Call this a hazard of pharmaceutical and food product advertising, but Krevsky says he occasionally has patients who are convinced they are constipated because they have seen ads promoting daily regularity. But as long as you’re being regular, you’re probably fine, as long as this doesn’t change and you don’t feel any discomfort.

If you are constipated and worried about the cause, check in with your doctor. Ending your chronic constipation could be as simple as choosing a better over-the-counter laxative or getting better control over a chronic health problem.

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How to Treat Constipation Caused by Your Medications

 You can treat this type of constipation with laxatives that you can buy at a drug store or supermarket. You do not need a prescription for these laxatives.

Laxatives work in two ways:

• Stimulant laxatives help stool move along your bowel or
• Osmotic laxatives help liquid stay in your bowel so stool does not become dry and hard.

Just as you need to eat every day, you must take laxatives every day for them to work.  

Sennosides

The first laxative you should try is the stimulant type called
sennosides. It is mild and works for most people. You can buy sennosides in pills or in liquid. 

PEG

If you have a history of frequent bowel cramps (also known as “Irritable Bowel Syndrome”), you may want to try an osmotic laxative first, such as
PEG. 

Steps to treat constipation that is caused by your medication:

Each person has a different bowel pattern. What is “normal” for you will be different than what is “normal” for another person. However, having a bowel movement should not be uncomfortable. You should not have to push too hard and your stool should be soft, but formed.

It is important to tailor your laxative doses based on your bowel pattern and goal. A treatment that is tailored for you is called a protocol. 

Look at the diagram below. 

Click
here to enlarge diagram. 

Each step up the protocol has a higher dose so you can work up to the level you need to maintain a comfortable bowel pattern. If you move up the protocol as shown, you will not risk over-treatment, which could cause diarrhea.

You should start EITHER the sennosides protocol OR the PEG protocol. Do not start both at the same time

Most people find the sennosides protocol to be the easiest to take. Sennosides cost less than PEG but PEG works just as well. 

Whichever protocol you choose, start at step 1. Wait 24 hours. If you have a bowel movement within 24 hours that is soft and comfortable to pass, stay at step 1.

If you do not have a comfortable bowel movement within 24 hours, go to the next step in the protocol.

Only go to the next step if you are still feeling constipated after 24hrs. 

Keep moving up a step every 24 hours until you feel your bowel pattern is good for you.

If you have diarrhea, stop taking laxatives until you have a normal bowel movement. Restart the protocol at a lower step than you were on when the diarrhea happened.
Do not take pills for diarrhea.

If you have very bad stomach cramps, stop taking sennosides and call your health care team.

Call your health care team if you:

• Feel the protocol is not working for you. You may need an osmotic laxative call lactulose syrup. This is sometimes necessary when you have reached the highest step on your protocol and you are still constipated.

• Are not sure how much laxative to take or when you should move to the next step of the protocol.
• Are still constipated after getting to the top step of the protocol. You may need a combination of laxatives or a change in medication or pain management. 
• Start having watery stools after a period of being constipated. There may be hard stool stuck in your rectum. If this happens, do not take pills for diarrhea.

Medicines can cause constipation

Constipation is a bowel disorder. Its characteristic features are a reduction in the number of bowel movements (2 times a week), increased hardness of feces, a feeling of incomplete emptying of the intestine after a bowel movement.

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There are two types of constipation: sluggish bowel and defecation disorder. While sluggish bowel is characterized by slow intestinal transit of stool, when bowel movements are impaired, incomplete bowel emptying occurs.

Constipation usually has many causes. Often these are the features of human nutrition, and sometimes we will take medications. Many medications directly affect bowel function and can interfere with digestion.

Cardiovascular drugs

The active substances of various drugs can affect bowel function. So, many patients who regularly take cardiovascular drugs suffer from constipation. These drugs include beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors, which lower blood pressure.

Diuretics cause sluggish bowel movements

People with heart failure and high blood pressure are often prescribed diuretics (diuretics). These drugs remove excess fluid from the body, thereby reducing the load on the heart. However, along with the liquid, minerals, such as potassium, are also excreted from the body. This can cause the stool to become harder and difficult to pass.

Painkillers can cause constipation

Pain therapy often consists of opioid analgesics such as morphine and codeine. One of the most common side effects of opioids is constipation. Opioids suppress the activity of nerve cells in the gastrointestinal tract and slow down intestinal motility. In this case, constipation can be avoided by adjusting the dose of drugs or by parallel administration of drugs that improve digestion.

Antidepressants reduce intestinal activity

Many antidepressants have a calming and relaxing effect. As a result, the intestines often become sluggish and digestion slows down. There is constipation.

Iron supplements interfere with bowel function

Iron supplements have to be taken because of low hemoglobin. These medications often cause digestive problems. Stomach pain, diarrhea, and constipation are possible side effects because iron can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines.

Massage can stimulate the intestines

For constipation, a light abdominal massage is often recommended. Experts say that it helps to improve peristalsis by stimulating nerve connections in the intestines. Massage should be done for 10-15 minutes before going to the toilet, making circular and stroking movements. Abdominal breathing will be equally effective: deep breaths increase pressure on the intestines, making bowel movements easier.

You may also be interested in:

• Why constipation occurs and how to deal with it?
• 9 easy ways to improve digestion
• The 13 Most Common Bowel Diseases: Symptoms and Treatments

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Treating constipation in adults and children

For most people, the normal frequency of bowel movements is between three times a day and three times a week. Some people may not have a bowel movement for a week or more and experience no discomfort. The frequency of bowel movements directly depends on the diet. The daily diet of the average person contains 12-15 g of fiber. And for the normal functioning of the intestines, you should consume at least 25-30 g of fiber and 1. 5-2 liters of fluid per day. Sufficient physical activity is also necessary to maintain normal bowel function.

To ensure you get enough fiber in your diet, include fiber-rich foods such as bran, whole grains, whole grain breads, and certain fruits and vegetables in your daily diet.

About 80% of people suffer from constipation at some point in their lives, and such short periods of constipation are quite normal. The diagnosis of “constipation” is made with a frequency of bowel movements less than three per week. The common belief that everyone should have a bowel movement every day has led to the overuse and dependence of many people on laxatives.

What causes constipation?

There are several reasons for the development of constipation, including insufficient intake of fiber and fluids, a sedentary lifestyle and a change in the usual environment. Travel, pregnancy, or dietary changes can lead to constipation. In some people, constipation may occur following repeated volitional refusal to defecate when the urge to defecate appears.

More serious causes of constipation may be neoplasms or areas of narrowing of the intestinal lumen. Therefore, with persistent, not amenable to self-correction, constipation, you should consult a coloproctologist. In rare cases, such serious diseases as scleroderma, lupus, disorders of the nervous and endocrine systems: thyroid disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, spinal cord injury can lead to the development of constipation.

Can medications cause constipation?

Yes, many medications, including pain relievers, antidepressants, tranquilizers and other psychiatric medications, blood pressure medications, diuretics, iron supplements, calcium supplements, and aluminum-containing antacids, can cause or worsen constipation.

Moreover, some people who do not experience constipation in normal life may become dependent on the laxatives they take to achieve daily bowel movements. For many of them, the constant use of laxatives brings significant harm.

When should I see a doctor about constipation?

Any long-term bowel dysfunction, such as increased or decreased frequency or volume of stools, or difficulty passing stools, should be treated by a specialist. If symptoms of constipation persist for more than three weeks, see a physician. If traces of blood appear in the stool, you should immediately contact a coloproctologist.

How can I determine the cause of constipation?

Constipation can be caused by a variety of causes and it is important to identify them in order to prescribe the correct and most effective treatment. The attending physician will definitely prescribe special studies to exclude the anatomical causes of constipation, such as tumors and areas of narrowing of the intestinal lumen.

A digital examination of the rectum is often used as the first examination method. This method is simple and can answer many questions about the causes of constipation. Examining the bowel with a flexible illuminated instrument or using a barium x-ray can help pinpoint the cause of constipation and rule out serious conditions such as polyps, tumors, or diverticular disease.

Other research methods help to determine the functional state of the intestine. For example, to conduct a marker study, the patient swallows capsules containing certain biological markers that are visible on x-ray examination performed a few days later. The results of the study show the presence or absence of violations of the muscular apparatus of the intestine. Other studies are aimed at assessing the condition of the anal canal and rectum. These include examining the reflexes of the anal sphincter muscles, which controls the defecation process, using a small plastic canister, as well as x-rays during defecation.

In most cases, neither anatomical nor functional disorders of the bowel can be detected and the causes of constipation are considered non-specific. Conducting an adequate study is a very important point, especially when the cause of constipation is: a decrease in the speed of food moving through the intestine, difficulty in evacuating feces, or other conditions.

Treatment of constipation

Most patients with constipation can be successfully treated by adding fiber-rich foods such as bran, whole grains, whole grain bread, vegetables and fruits, and sufficient fluids to the daily diet. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes. The use of foods containing non-digestible dietary fiber in the intestine, such as bran, has a positive effect not only on constipation, but also on digestion in general. With their regular use, the level of cholesterol in the blood decreases, the risk of developing polyps and colon cancer decreases, and the development of hemorrhoids is prevented.

Adequate fiber should be consumed for several weeks, possibly months, to achieve the full effect. However, its constant use does not form dependence, unlike stimulant laxatives. Other types of laxatives, enemas, and suppositories should only be used as directed by a physician and under the supervision of a coloproctologist.

For some patients, it may be helpful to set a daily time of day for bowel movements.