What are the common causes of severe constipation. How can you identify the symptoms of constipation. What are the most effective remedies for relieving constipation. When should you seek medical attention for constipation. How long does constipation typically last. What complications can arise from untreated constipation. Which lifestyle changes can help prevent constipation.

Understanding Constipation: Definition and Prevalence

Constipation is a common digestive issue characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools. It affects people of all ages and can significantly impact quality of life. While the normal frequency of bowel movements varies from person to person, going more than three days without a bowel movement is generally considered constipation.

How prevalent is constipation? Studies suggest that up to 20% of adults experience chronic constipation at some point in their lives. The condition is more common in women, older adults, and those with certain medical conditions or taking specific medications.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Constipation

Identifying constipation early can help you take appropriate measures to alleviate discomfort. Common symptoms include:

• Passing fewer than three stools per week
• Straining during bowel movements
• Hard or lumpy stools
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation
• Abdominal bloating or discomfort
• Need for manual maneuvers to facilitate bowel movements

Can constipation cause other physical symptoms? In some cases, severe constipation may lead to additional symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, or even back pain due to the pressure of impacted stool on surrounding organs.

Common Causes of Constipation: Lifestyle and Medical Factors

Understanding the underlying causes of constipation is crucial for effective management. Constipation can result from various factors, including:

Lifestyle-related causes:

• Inadequate fiber intake
• Dehydration
• Lack of physical activity
• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• Stress and anxiety

Medical causes:

• Certain medications (e.g., opioids, antidepressants, iron supplements)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis)
• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., hypothyroidism)
• Structural issues in the digestive tract

Is dietary change alone sufficient to address constipation? While dietary modifications can significantly improve symptoms for many individuals, some cases of constipation may require additional interventions or medical treatment, especially if caused by underlying health conditions.

Effective Remedies and Treatments for Constipation Relief

Fortunately, several strategies can help alleviate constipation and promote regular bowel movements:

1. Increase fiber intake

Consuming adequate fiber is essential for maintaining healthy bowel function. Aim for 25-30 grams of fiber daily from sources such as:

• Fruits (e.g., apples, pears, berries)
• Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, spinach)
• Whole grains (e.g., oats, brown rice, quinoa)
• Legumes (e.g., lentils, beans, chickpeas)

2. Stay hydrated

Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining soft, easy-to-pass stools. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, and increase intake during hot weather or physical activity.

3. Exercise regularly

Physical activity stimulates intestinal muscles and promotes bowel movements. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

4. Establish a regular toilet routine

Set aside time each day for bowel movements, preferably after meals when the gastrocolic reflex is strongest.

5. Consider over-the-counter laxatives

Various types of laxatives are available, including:

• Bulk-forming agents (e.g., psyllium husk)
• Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
• Osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol)
• Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl)

How quickly do laxatives typically work? The onset of action varies depending on the type of laxative. Stimulant laxatives may produce results within 6-12 hours, while bulk-forming agents may take a few days to become fully effective.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Constipation

While occasional constipation is common, certain situations warrant medical evaluation:

• Constipation lasting more than three weeks
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Alternating constipation and diarrhea
• Persistent changes in bowel habits

Should you be concerned about constipation in children? Constipation in children can sometimes indicate underlying medical issues. Consult a pediatrician if a child experiences persistent constipation, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

Potential Complications of Untreated Constipation

Chronic constipation can lead to various complications if left untreated:

• Hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures
• Fecal impaction
• Rectal prolapse
• Urinary retention or incontinence

Can constipation cause long-term damage to the colon? While occasional constipation is unlikely to cause permanent harm, chronic constipation may lead to weakening of the colon muscles or changes in the nerves controlling bowel movements, potentially exacerbating the problem over time.

Diagnostic Approaches for Chronic Constipation

When evaluating chronic constipation, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic tools:

1. Medical history and physical examination

A thorough review of symptoms, lifestyle factors, and medical history, along with a physical exam, can often provide valuable insights into the underlying cause of constipation.

2. Blood tests

Blood work may be performed to check for hormonal imbalances, electrolyte abnormalities, or other systemic issues contributing to constipation.

3. Imaging studies

X-rays, CT scans, or MRI may be used to assess the structure and function of the digestive tract and identify any obstructions or abnormalities.

4. Colonoscopy

This procedure allows direct visualization of the colon and can detect conditions such as polyps, tumors, or inflammatory bowel disease.

5. Anorectal manometry

This test evaluates the strength and coordination of the muscles involved in bowel movements.

How often should routine colonoscopies be performed? For individuals at average risk for colorectal cancer, colonoscopy screening is typically recommended starting at age 45, with follow-up screenings every 10 years if results are normal.

Lifestyle Modifications for Preventing Constipation

Adopting healthy habits can significantly reduce the risk of constipation:

• Maintain a balanced, high-fiber diet
• Stay adequately hydrated throughout the day
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices
• Avoid holding in bowel movements when the urge arises
• Limit consumption of constipating foods (e.g., processed foods, dairy products)

Can probiotics help prevent constipation? Some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains may improve bowel function and reduce constipation, although more research is needed to establish definitive recommendations.

Special Considerations for Constipation in Specific Populations

Pregnancy-related constipation

Constipation is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus. Safe management strategies include:

• Increasing fiber and fluid intake
• Engaging in prenatal-safe exercises
• Using pregnancy-approved stool softeners under medical supervision

Constipation in older adults

Aging can increase the risk of constipation due to factors such as:

• Decreased mobility
• Medication side effects
• Weakened pelvic floor muscles

Management may involve a combination of dietary changes, exercise, and careful medication review.

Childhood constipation

Constipation in children often requires a multifaceted approach:

• Establishing regular toilet habits
• Ensuring adequate fiber and fluid intake
• Addressing any underlying emotional or behavioral factors
• Using pediatrician-approved laxatives when necessary

How can parents encourage healthy bowel habits in children? Creating a positive, stress-free environment around toileting, offering praise for successful bowel movements, and maintaining open communication about digestive health can help children develop healthy habits.

The Role of Gut Microbiota in Constipation

Emerging research suggests that the composition of gut bacteria may play a role in constipation:

• Imbalances in gut microbiota (dysbiosis) may contribute to constipation
• Certain bacterial strains may influence intestinal motility and stool consistency
• Prebiotic and probiotic interventions show promise in managing constipation

Can dietary changes alone significantly alter gut microbiota? While diet is a key factor in shaping gut microbiota, the relationship is complex. Sustained dietary changes, along with other lifestyle factors, can influence microbial composition over time.

Alternative and Complementary Approaches to Constipation Management

Some individuals find relief from constipation through alternative therapies:

1. Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese medicine techniques may help stimulate intestinal motility and relieve constipation symptoms.

2. Herbal remedies

Certain herbs, such as senna or cascara, have natural laxative properties. However, these should be used cautiously and under professional guidance.

3. Abdominal massage

Gentle massage techniques may help stimulate bowel movements and relieve discomfort.

4. Biofeedback therapy

This technique can help individuals learn to relax pelvic floor muscles and improve coordination during bowel movements.

Are alternative therapies as effective as conventional treatments for constipation? The efficacy of alternative therapies can vary widely among individuals. While some people report significant benefits, scientific evidence supporting these approaches is often limited compared to conventional treatments.

The Impact of Medications on Bowel Function

Many medications can contribute to or exacerbate constipation:

• Opioid pain medications
• Antidepressants
• Antacids containing aluminum or calcium
• Iron supplements
• Antihypertensive drugs
• Antihistamines

If medication-induced constipation is suspected, consult with a healthcare provider about potential alternatives or management strategies.

Can changing the timing of medication administration help reduce constipation? In some cases, adjusting the timing of medication doses or taking them with meals may help minimize constipation-related side effects. However, always consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to prescribed medication regimens.

The Psychological Aspects of Chronic Constipation

Chronic constipation can have significant psychological impacts:

• Increased stress and anxiety
• Reduced quality of life
• Social isolation due to discomfort or embarrassment
• Depression in severe or long-standing cases

Addressing the psychological aspects of constipation through counseling or support groups may be beneficial for some individuals.

How does stress contribute to constipation? Stress can affect gut motility, alter eating habits, and lead to muscle tension, all of which can contribute to constipation. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or cognitive-behavioral therapy may help improve bowel function.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Constipation Management

Ongoing research is exploring new approaches to understanding and treating constipation:

• Targeted microbiome interventions
• Novel pharmacological agents
• Neuromodulation techniques
• Personalized treatment strategies based on genetic and microbial profiles

These advancements may lead to more effective and tailored treatments for individuals with chronic constipation.

What role might artificial intelligence play in constipation management? AI-driven analysis of patient data, including dietary habits, medication use, and gut microbiome composition, could potentially help identify personalized treatment strategies and predict treatment responses in the future.

What to Do for Severe Constipation

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Constipation Symptoms
• Constipation Causes
• Constipation Remedies
• How Long Does Constipation Last?
• When Should I Call My Doctor?

Being constipated means your bowel movements are tough or happen less often than normal. Almost everyone goes through it at some point.

Although it’s not usually serious, you’ll feel much better when your body is back on track.

The normal length of time between bowel movements varies widely from person to person. Some people have them three times a day. Others have them just a few times a week.

Going longer than 3 or more days without one, though, is usually too long. After 3 days, your stool gets harder and more difficult to pass.

You may have:

• Few bowel movements
• Trouble having a bowel movement (straining to go)
• Hard or small stools
• A feeling that everything didn’t come out
• Belly bloating

You also may feel like you need help to empty your bowels, such as pressing on your belly or using a finger to remove stool from your bottom.

Some causes of constipation include:

• Changes to what you eat or your activities
• Not enough water or fiber in your diet
• Eating a lot of dairy products
• Not being active
• Resisting the urge to poop
• Stress
• Overuse of laxatives
• Some medications (especially strong pain drugs such as narcotics, antidepressants, and iron pills)
• Antacid medicines that have calcium or aluminum
• Eating disorders
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Pregnancy
• Problems with the nerves and muscles in your digestive system
• Colon cancer
• Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
• An underactive thyroid (called hypothyroidism)
• Excess calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia) due to overactive parathyroid glands, medications, cancer (lung, breast, multiple myeloma), or other causes

Take these steps:

• Drink two to four extra glasses of water a day, unless your doctor told you to limit fluids for another reason.
• Try warm liquids, especially in the morning.
• Add fruits and vegetables to your diet.
• Eat prunes and bran cereal.
• Exercise most days of the week. When you move your body, the muscles in your intestines are more active, too.
• Don’t ignore the urge to poop.

You can try taking a laxative, too. There are several types of laxatives, and you can buy many of them over the counter. Each of them works in a different way to ease constipation. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which kind might work for you and how long you should take it.

When constipation lingers for 3 weeks or more, get a checkup just to make sure a medical condition isn’t causing the problem. Also see your doctor if:

• You’ve never been constipated before now.
• You have stomach pain.
• You notice blood in your stools.
• You’re losing weight without trying.

Don’t let constipation go unchecked for too long. When untreated, constipation can lead to unpleasant complications such as hemorrhoids and rectal prolapse, a condition in which part of the intestine pushes out through the anus from too much straining.

Call your doctor right away if you have sudden constipation with belly pain or cramping and you aren’t able to poop or pass gas at all.

Also, make the call if:

• Constipation is a new problem for you and lifestyle changes haven’t helped.
• You have blood in your stool.
• You’re losing weight even though you’re not trying to.
• You have severe pain with bowel movements.
• Your constipation has lasted more than 2 weeks.
• The size, shape, and consistency of your stool has changed dramatically.

Your doctor may recommend some tests to find the cause of your constipation:

• Blood tests to check on hormone levels
• Tests that check the muscles in your anus
• Tests that show how waste moves through and out of your colon
• Colonoscopy to look for blockages in your colon

Top Picks

6 constipation remedies that work (plus 3 that don’t)

Feeling blocked up, cramping or bloating? We’ve all been there before. Constipation is when your bowel movements become difficult to pass or happen less frequently than usual.

Dealing with constipation is difficult, but there are ways to combat it.

“Avoid any quick fixes for your constipation,” says gastroenterologist Derrick Eichele, MD. “It’s best to use tried-and-true remedies like exercise, water or laxatives if needed to have normal, healthy stools.”

If you’ve tried these remedies and are still experiencing constipation, see your primary care provider. They can refer you to a gastroenterologist if needed. Sometimes a medical cause is the culprit, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or certain medications.

Constantly constipated?
Call 800.922.0000 to make an appointment with a primary care provider.

1. Water does a body good

Drinking enough water helps your gastrointestinal (GI) tract create the right consistency of stool. 

“Water is necessary for all your organs,” says Dr. Eichele. “So your colon will pull out water from your food to deliver to your heart, brain and lungs.” If you aren’t drinking enough liquid water, your colon will hold on to the limited resource. And then – constipation. 

For soft stools (which are easiest to pass), drink up. “For best results, drink 48 to 64 ounces of water each day – just not all at once,” says Dr. Eichele. Drink an eight-ounce glass of water multiple times throughout the day for best results.

2. Exercise gets things moving

“Exercise will definitely help with constipation,” says Dr. Eichele. “In some cultures, people go for a walk after a meal. That activity stimulates the digestion process.”

A 10- or 15-minute walk after a meal means your colon will get moving, too – which is a healthy, normal response.

If you’ve heard of “runner’s gut,” the same principle applies. “Long-distance runners can sometimes struggle with needing to go, due to an overactive colon,” says Dr. Eichele.

3.

Fiber combats both constipation and diarrhea

“Vegetables are great because they contain a lot of fiber, which helps regulate your digestion,” says Dr. Eichele. “The nice thing about fiber is it improves both diarrhea and constipation. It helps hold water in for constipation, and for folks with diarrhea it adds bulk to the stool to help form it.”

• Insoluble fiber holds on to water, making stools softer and easier to pass. Sources of insoluble fiber include brown rice, whole grains, green beans, broccoli and cabbage
• Soluble fiber adds bulk to poop, preventing diarrhea. Sources of soluble fiber include apples, berries, beans, nuts, seeds and oats

If you’re not used to eating fiber, a gradual increase will help your body adjust. You might experience cramping, flatulence and bloating from eating too much fiber all at once. “Add fiber little by little to your diet over the course of several days. You’ll feel much better in the long run,” advises Dr. Eichele.Exercise, hydration and fiber are proven ways to relieve constipation, says gastroenterologist Derrick Eichele, MD.

4. Caffeine wakes up your colon

Coffee, soda and caffeinated tea can also wake up a slow-moving gut.

“Caffeine can stimulate the colon to move a little bit,” explains Dr. Eichele. “That’s why some folks feel like their morning coffee gets them going.”

5. Gentle laxatives can also help

If exercise and hydration aren’t improving things, you can also look for a gentle laxative. “Trying an over-the-counter laxative is generally OK,” says Dr. Eichele. “An osmotic laxative like MiraLAX might be a good first step. Osmotic laxatives help your colon hang on to water.”

“Some people prefer fiber supplementation, like Metamucil or psyllium,” says Dr. Eichele. “These are usually pretty mild, gentle laxatives. But if the laxatives aren’t helping, it’s a good idea to see your doctor.”

6. Sugar-free gum might give you diarrhea

Can certain sugar-free gum relieve constipation? Well, yes, but you might also experience diarrhea.  

Gums that contain sorbitol, a type of sweetener, can cause diarrhea. Some people are more sensitive to sorbitol than others.

“Polyols include sweeteners like sorbitol, xylitol and mannitol. Some of these foods can cause diarrhea, gas or flatulence,” says Dr. Eichele. “If you use sorbitol to fight constipation, that may swing things in the opposite direction. Before you were constipated, now you have diarrhea.”

“You might fix the constipation with sugar-free gum, but you haven’t solved the problem that caused it in the first place,” advises Dr. Eichele. “Overdoing it on any type of laxative will cause diarrhea.”

Exercise, hydration and fiber intake are gentler ways to relieve constipation.

Some TikToks promote certain tricks to relieve constipation. Unfortunately, they’re just that – tricks. While there’s no harm in trying these, don’t be surprised if these three tactics don’t work.

1. Rubbing fists together

An acupuncturist claims that rubbing your fists together for several minutes will help you have a bowel movement. There’s no rigorous scientific evidence to support this claim. A tried-and-true technique like light exercise is a better bet.

2. Crouching on a chair

Sitting a certain way for seven seconds is not proven to help constipation. However, changing your body posture while on the toilet can make things easier. Place your feet on a stool to place your knees higher than your hips.

3. Drinking a hot beverage

With a few caveats, this tip makes sense. If the hot beverage contains caffeine (see #4 above), this can help. Plus, if you drink enough hot drinks like tea, you’ll increase your water intake – which is a good thing for softer stools. But there’s nothing about the temperature of the drink which eases constipation, so keep that in mind.

What to do with constipation? | Microlax

Both chronic and acute constipation must be treated to alleviate their own condition and avoid the formation of complications.

Competent use of laxatives

Regardless of the causes, the treatment of constipation with stool retention for 3 days or more requires prior bowel cleansing.

The most commonly used for this purpose are:

• laxatives;
• candles with glycerin;
• cleansing enemas.

What to do with severe constipation? Taking laxatives by mouth (oral) helps very slowly and unpredictably. Moreover, unpleasant side effects may occur, such as increased gas formation, rumbling and cramping abdominal pain. But some oral remedies are well suited for the complex treatment of chronic conditions and the prevention of constipation.

The best option for cleansing the intestines in case of acute, including prolonged and severe, stool retention is MICROLAX®, produced in the form of microclysters. Compared to oral laxatives, it can take 5-15 minutes to work ¹ . Among other advantages of MICROLAX®, one can note a high safety profile when following the instructions for the medical use of the drug (it has no age restrictions and special contraindications) and a convenient form of release – microclysters in individual one-time packaging. With the help of MICROLAX®, it is very easy to get rid of constipation at home – setting microclysters does not require special skills. It is enough just to insert the tip into the rectum, after squeezing out a drop of MICROLAX® to lubricate the tip (for a child under the age of 3 years, insert the tip only halfway up to the mark on it or use MICROLAX® for children) and completely squeeze out the contents of the tube, then remove the tip while still lightly squeezing the tube.

¹ Approximate time of onset of action according to the instructions for use.

Severe constipation is a frequent occurrence in hospital patients, especially after surgery, in pregnant women during their stay in the maternity hospital. Problems with the chair can also be noted on the road (long train trips, business trips). In such situations, MICROLAX® can also help you – it can be used in the postoperative period and during pregnancy, and thanks to its convenient format it is very simple.

may suit you

Microlax

^® No. 4

Fast-acting mild laxative

More about the preparation

MICROLAX® – has no restrictions on the duration of use and is suitable for the treatment of chronic constipation. In this case, a complex therapy of treatment should be selected by a doctor.

Compliance with diet and drinking regimen

The use of laxatives alone is not enough to normalize the stool. Nutrition is of great importance. Activation of intestinal peristalsis, softening of feces and the growth of beneficial microflora are promoted by dietary fibers: pectin, lactulose and coarse vegetable fiber. They are found in large quantities in fresh vegetables, fruits, berries, grain shells (coarse flour, bran, muesli).

Inclusion in the diet of fermented milk products with low fat content and fresh, additionally enriched with representatives of the normal intestinal microflora (lacto-, bifidobacteria) helps to get rid of constipation.

To normalize the stool, it is necessary to increase the fluid intake, and in the form of water – bottled or boiled.

Increasing physical activity

Regular exercise – gymnastics, swimming, running – contribute to the timely cleansing of the intestines.

Solving psychological problems

Psychological problems, stress are common causes of constipation. For a young child, the stress will be a change of scenery, including admission to kindergarten or school. Children are often embarrassed to go to a public toilet and systematically delay the stool. As a result, the stool becomes thicker, the rectal ampulla expands, which leads to painful bowel movements, which makes the child increasingly afraid to go to the toilet and a vicious circle is formed. If this condition is not treated in children, it can lead to the development of serious complications in the future, such as calomasia, megacolon, rectocele, etc.

In constipation in adults, nervous overstrain and chronic stress also play an important role, so for chronic problems with stools, the help of a psychologist and training in relaxation techniques will be useful.

Normalization of the day regimen

The normal daily regimen is not only sufficient sleep and rest. This also includes achieving regular, daily (and preferably at the same time) bowel movements. The use of MICROLAX® at the initial stages of treatment helps to form the rhythm of bowel movements – the use of microclysters in the morning contributes to the development and strengthening of the habit of going to the toilet at this time of the day.

Treating the underlying disease

If the underlying cause of constipation is a medical condition, the first step in treating the stool problem is to treat it. In case of organic pathology (tumor, diverticula, congenital anomalies of the intestine), surgical intervention may be required.

Constipation or irregular stools for several days: how to distinguish?

An important role in the well-being of every person is played by the intestines. If trips to the toilet are irregular, accompanied by difficulties and do not bring relief, the usual rhythm of life may be disturbed. The mood deteriorates, internal discomfort and a feeling of heaviness cause discomfort.

Many people begin to take actions on their own to get rid of the problem, resorting to such means as herbal tea, enema, etc. For some, these means allow them to completely cope with the problem, for some they bring only temporary relief, and for others they do not at all don’t help. And then you need to look for another solution. However, before looking for a solution to the problem, it is necessary to distinguish between two fairly close concepts – irregular stools and constipation.

Irregular chair

Everything can start with an irregular stool. To understand what an irregular stool is, let’s go backwards and define what a regular stool is. It is considered normal when bowel emptying occurs at least once a day ⁶ . According to modern physiology, only 8% of healthy people stool less than once a day. Thus, 92% of practically healthy people have a stool at least once a day ⁶ .

The amount of liquid consumed and the type of food affect the frequency of stools. The use of refined, refined, processed foods provides the digestive system with only easy-to-digest substances and little fiber. As a result, stools may become less frequent than usual.

Separately, it is necessary to highlight such a problem as irregular stools during pregnancy. More rare trips to the toilet may be associated with physiological changes in the body. Hormones that promote a relaxed state of the uterine muscles and maintain pregnancy can cause a decrease in the tone of the intestinal muscles ⁷ . In late pregnancy, mechanical compression of the bowel may occur ⁷ . Irregular bowel movements may persist after childbirth. Since the work of the whole organism of a woman is aimed at bearing and giving birth to a healthy child, other functions of the body may suffer for this purpose.

Constipation

Being mindful of your health often helps to avoid turning irregular stools into constipation. There is a very thin line between constipation and irregular stools. Many focus only on the frequency of stools, losing sight of other important symptoms. If nothing is done, constipation may develop.

Constipation is characterized by the following symptoms ⁵ :

• prolonged and fruitless straining,
• lumpy or hard stools,
• sensation of incomplete bowel emptying,
• stool frequency less than three times a week,
• soreness when going to the toilet.

Particular attention should be paid to those who have several symptoms at once. If constipation continues to bother you for the last three months, and the first symptoms appeared at least 6 months ago, it can be said that the problem has become chronic ⁵ .

The leading symptoms of the problem are not stool frequency, but unproductive urges, incomplete emptying and excessive effort, as well as increased time for this process. In this case, the frequency of the stool can remain normal. For this reason, many may underestimate their condition and not start treatment on time. Just look at the statistics. Constipation affects up to 40% of the population in developed countries ⁷ . During pregnancy and the postpartum period, up to 50% of women experience this problem ⁷ .

Treatment and prevention

It is important to prevent the transition of irregular stools into a state of constipation, but to take control of the situation in time and help the intestines to restore normal functioning. Don’t wait for the problem to get worse. We need to act.

The main goal is to restore the normal rate of bowel movement and regular stool.

The result can be achieved by changing lifestyle and eating habits. In your daily diet, you need to include foods rich in fiber. It is also important to monitor the water balance and consume at least 1.5 – 2.5 liters of fluid per day. It is recommended to eat more vegetables, fruits, berries, food bran, dried apricots, prunes and apples ^4.5 .

However, in practice it has been observed that the diet may not give a lasting effect ⁵ . It is not perceived as a new way of life, but as a temporary limitation for the removal of symptoms, which later leads to their return and the transition of the problem to a more serious, chronic one.

Normalization of the stool is facilitated by increased motor activity, strengthening of the muscles of the pelvic floor and abdominals. It is also important to create comfortable psychological conditions for going to the toilet ⁵ . Calm, measured morning hours are the most optimal for the formation of stable urges in accordance with biological rhythms. However, sometimes the above measures are not enough to deal with the problem. Then laxatives come to the rescue.

Preparations for normalizing stools and treating constipation

Laxatives can be divided into several groups according to their action ⁵ :

• Irritant laxatives – tablets, suppositories, drops. They irritate the intestinal receptors and cause increased peristalsis.
• Increasing the volume of intestinal contents – ballast substances (bran, flax seed).
• Contributing to the softening of the contents – liquid paraffin, vaseline oil.
• Osmotic agents increase fluid content in the intestinal lumen (lactulose, lactitol, macrogol/polyethylene glycol).

All of the above groups of drugs have strengths and weaknesses (You can read more about the types of laxatives, their advantages and disadvantages in the article “How to choose the right laxative?”). However, to solve the problem, an integrated approach to treatment will give the best result. The combination of physical activity, proper diet, drinking enough water and the use of laxatives allows you to restore regular bowel movements and return the joy of life ⁵ . To normalize the stool and treat constipation, osmotic agents, in particular, the laxative Duphalac ^®1,4,5 , will be the best choice.