What are the common symptoms of constipation. How long can constipation typically last. When should you seek medical attention for constipation. What are the most effective home remedies for relieving constipation. How does fiber intake affect digestive health and constipation.

Understanding Constipation: A Common Digestive Issue

Constipation is a prevalent digestive problem characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools. While it’s generally not a serious condition, it can cause significant discomfort and affect one’s quality of life. To better understand this issue, let’s explore its symptoms, causes, and potential remedies.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Constipation

Identifying constipation is the first step towards addressing it. Are you experiencing any of these common symptoms?

• Infrequent bowel movements (less than three times a week)
• Straining during bowel movements
• Hard or lumpy stools
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation
• Abdominal bloating or discomfort
• Need for manual assistance to facilitate bowel movements

If you’re experiencing several of these symptoms, you may be dealing with constipation. It’s important to note that normal bowel movement frequency can vary from person to person, ranging from three times a day to a few times a week.

Common Causes of Constipation

Constipation can result from various factors, including lifestyle choices and medical conditions. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and treatment.

Lifestyle and Dietary Factors

• Insufficient fiber intake
• Inadequate hydration
• Lack of physical activity
• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• Excessive consumption of dairy products
• Stress and anxiety

Medical Causes

• Certain medications (e.g., strong pain drugs, antidepressants, iron supplements)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Pregnancy
• Neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis)
• Hypothyroidism
• Colon cancer (in rare cases)

Can certain medications cause constipation? Yes, some medications, particularly strong pain drugs (narcotics), antidepressants, and iron supplements, can lead to constipation as a side effect. If you suspect your medication is causing constipation, consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your regimen.

Effective Home Remedies for Constipation Relief

Fortunately, many cases of constipation can be alleviated with simple lifestyle changes and home remedies. Here are some effective strategies to try:

1. Increase fiber intake: Consume more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
3. Exercise regularly: Physical activity stimulates bowel movements.
4. Don’t ignore the urge to go: Respond promptly to your body’s signals.
5. Try warm liquids: Especially in the morning to stimulate bowel movements.
6. Consider natural laxatives: Prunes and bran cereal can be helpful.

How much fiber should you consume daily to prevent constipation? The recommended daily intake of fiber is 25-30 grams for most adults. Gradually increase your fiber intake to avoid digestive discomfort and drink plenty of water to help the fiber work effectively.

The Role of Fiber in Digestive Health

Fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining digestive health and preventing constipation. There are two main types of fiber: soluble and insoluble.

Soluble Fiber

Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract. It helps soften stools and can lower cholesterol levels. Good sources of soluble fiber include:

• Oats
• Barley
• Nuts
• Seeds
• Beans
• Lentils
• Some fruits and vegetables

Insoluble Fiber

Insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in water and adds bulk to the stool, helping it pass more quickly through the digestive system. Good sources of insoluble fiber include:

• Wheat bran
• Whole grains
• Nuts
• Beans
• Cauliflower
• Green beans
• Potatoes

How does fiber help prevent constipation? Fiber adds bulk to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. It also helps move waste through the intestines more quickly, reducing the likelihood of constipation.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Constipation

While occasional constipation is common, persistent or severe cases may require medical attention. Consult your healthcare provider if:

• Constipation lasts for more than three weeks
• You experience severe abdominal pain
• You notice blood in your stool
• You’re losing weight unintentionally
• You’ve never experienced constipation before
• Lifestyle changes haven’t improved your symptoms

Is sudden constipation with severe abdominal pain a cause for concern? Yes, sudden constipation accompanied by severe abdominal pain and an inability to pass gas or stool could indicate a serious condition such as bowel obstruction. In such cases, seek immediate medical attention.

Diagnostic Tests for Chronic Constipation

If you’re experiencing chronic constipation, your doctor may recommend certain tests to determine the underlying cause:

• Blood tests to check hormone levels
• Anorectal manometry to assess muscle function in the anus and rectum
• Colonic transit studies to evaluate how waste moves through your colon
• Colonoscopy to check for blockages or other abnormalities in the colon

These tests can help identify any underlying medical conditions contributing to your constipation and guide appropriate treatment.

The Impact of Constipation on Overall Health

While constipation is often viewed as a minor inconvenience, chronic cases can have significant impacts on overall health and quality of life. Understanding these potential consequences can motivate individuals to take proactive steps in managing their digestive health.

Physical Health Implications

Untreated chronic constipation can lead to several physical health issues:

• Hemorrhoids: Straining during bowel movements can cause swollen veins in the rectum.
• Anal fissures: Passing hard stools can cause small tears in the anus.
• Fecal impaction: Hardened stool can become stuck in the intestines.
• Rectal prolapse: Chronic straining can cause part of the intestine to protrude from the anus.
• Urinary incontinence: Constipation can put pressure on the bladder, leading to urinary issues.

Can chronic constipation lead to more serious digestive problems? Yes, prolonged constipation can potentially lead to complications such as diverticulitis (inflammation of small pouches in the colon) or, in rare cases, contribute to the development of colorectal cancer. Regular screenings and prompt management of constipation are crucial for maintaining digestive health.

Mental Health and Quality of Life

The impact of constipation extends beyond physical discomfort. It can significantly affect mental health and overall quality of life:

• Increased stress and anxiety
• Reduced social interactions due to discomfort
• Decreased productivity at work or school
• Disrupted sleep patterns
• Negative body image and self-esteem issues

Addressing constipation promptly can help alleviate these mental health concerns and improve overall well-being.

Lifestyle Modifications for Long-Term Constipation Prevention

While occasional constipation is common, adopting certain lifestyle habits can significantly reduce its occurrence and promote overall digestive health.

Dietary Changes

A balanced diet rich in fiber is crucial for preventing constipation. Consider incorporating these dietary habits:

• Gradually increase fiber intake to 25-30 grams per day
• Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your diet
• Limit processed foods, which are often low in fiber
• Moderate dairy consumption, as excessive dairy can contribute to constipation in some individuals
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day

How can you increase your fiber intake without causing digestive discomfort? Start by gradually increasing your fiber intake over several weeks. This allows your digestive system to adjust. Always pair increased fiber consumption with adequate hydration to prevent bloating or discomfort.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise is beneficial for overall health and can help prevent constipation:

• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week
• Include activities like walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling
• Consider yoga or Pilates, which can help stimulate digestive function

Stress Management

Chronic stress can disrupt digestive function and contribute to constipation. Implement stress-reduction techniques such as:

• Regular meditation or mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night for most adults)
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy
• Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional when needed

Bathroom Habits

Developing healthy bathroom habits can also help prevent constipation:

• Respond promptly to the urge to have a bowel movement
• Establish a regular bathroom routine, such as trying to go at the same time each day
• Allow sufficient time for bowel movements without rushing
• Use proper posture on the toilet (consider using a footstool to elevate your feet slightly)

Is it beneficial to schedule a specific time for daily bowel movements? While everyone’s body is different, trying to have a bowel movement at the same time each day can help regulate your digestive system. Many people find that attempting to go shortly after waking or after meals can be effective, as these are times when the colon is naturally more active.

The Connection Between Gut Health and Overall Wellness

Recent research has highlighted the intricate relationship between gut health and overall wellness, extending far beyond digestive function. Understanding this connection can provide motivation for maintaining good digestive health and preventing issues like constipation.

The Gut Microbiome

The gut microbiome, comprised of trillions of microorganisms living in our digestive tract, plays a crucial role in various aspects of health:

• Immune system function
• Nutrient absorption
• Mood regulation
• Inflammation control
• Weight management

A healthy, diverse gut microbiome is associated with better overall health and a reduced risk of various diseases.

The Gut-Brain Axis

The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. This connection influences:

• Mental health (including anxiety and depression)
• Cognitive function
• Stress response
• Pain perception

How does maintaining good digestive health contribute to mental well-being? A healthy gut can positively influence neurotransmitter production and function, potentially reducing the risk of mood disorders and improving overall mental health. Conversely, digestive issues like chronic constipation can contribute to increased stress and anxiety.

Gut Health and Chronic Diseases

Emerging research suggests that gut health may play a role in the development or progression of various chronic diseases:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Cardiovascular disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Certain cancers
• Neurodegenerative diseases

While more research is needed, maintaining good digestive health through proper diet, regular exercise, and stress management may contribute to reducing the risk of these conditions.

Innovative Approaches to Constipation Management

As our understanding of digestive health evolves, new approaches to managing constipation are emerging. These innovative strategies complement traditional methods and may offer relief for those with chronic or treatment-resistant constipation.

Probiotics and Prebiotics

Probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (food for these bacteria) can help promote a healthy gut microbiome:

• Probiotic supplements or fermented foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut)
• Prebiotic-rich foods (garlic, onions, bananas, asparagus)

Can probiotics effectively treat chronic constipation? While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains may help alleviate constipation by improving gut motility and stool consistency. However, results can vary, and it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Biofeedback Therapy

Biofeedback therapy can help individuals with chronic constipation related to pelvic floor dysfunction:

• Teaches proper muscle coordination for bowel movements
• Helps retrain the muscles involved in defecation
• Can be particularly helpful for those with outlet obstruction type constipation

Intestinal Gas Management

Excessive intestinal gas can contribute to bloating and discomfort associated with constipation. Strategies for managing gas include:

• Identifying and limiting gas-producing foods
• Eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly
• Avoiding carbonated beverages
• Using over-the-counter digestive enzymes when needed

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

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Fiber for Heart, Cholesterol, and Digestive Health

Written by R. Morgan Griffin

• Why do people take fiber?
• How much fiber should you take?
• Can you get fiber naturally from foods?
• What are the risks of taking fiber?

Fiber is the general name for certain carbohydrates — usually parts of vegetables, plants, and grains — that the body can’t fully digest. While fiber isn’t broken down and absorbed like nutrients, it still plays a key role in good health.

There are two main types of fiber. They are soluble fiber (which dissolves in water) and insoluble fiber (which does not). Combined, they’re called total fiber.

A number of studies have found that a high intake of total fiber, from foods and supplements, lowers the risk of heart disease. High-fiber diets have also been associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.

Insoluble fiber adds bulk to stools. It helps treat constipation and diverticular disease and may benefit people with some types of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Recent research has shown that increased fiber is also linked to increased survival in people with colon cancer.

Soluble fiber seems to lower cholesterol levels. It binds with cholesterol in the intestines and prevents it from being absorbed. Soluble fiber may also be useful in treating diabetes and insulin resistance (prediabetes). It can slow the absorption of carbohydrates, helping to improve blood sugar levels.

Since fiber is filling and has very few calories, high-fiber foods may also help with weight loss.

Fiber that comes from whole foods is called dietary fiber. Fiber that’s sold in supplements, or added to fortified foods, is called functional fiber. The Institute of Medicine has set an adequate intake (AI) for total fiber, which includes all sources. Getting this amount of fiber should be enough to stay healthy. Doctors may recommend higher doses of fiber.

Even in high amounts, fiber appears to be safe. Experts have not discovered an amount of fiber that’s harmful.

Most people in the U.S. take in much less fiber than they should. The best way to get it is from food, like a variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Some good sources of soluble fiber include:

• Oatmeal and oat bran
• Apples, citrus fruits, and strawberries
• Beans, peas, and lentils
• Barley
• Rice bran

And some sources of insoluble fiber are:

• Cereal brans
• Whole grains, like barley
• Whole-wheat breads, wheat cereals, and wheat bran
• Vegetables like carrots, cabbage, beets, and cauliflower

Some foods, like nuts, contain both soluble and insoluble fiber.

• Side effects. Fiber does not have serious side effects. At high levels, it can cause bloating, cramping, gas, and perhaps worsening constipation. Drinking more water — 2 liters a day — may help.
• Interactions. If you take any regular medications, talk to a doctor before you start using a fiber supplement. It may block the absorption of some drugs.
• Risks. Rarely, fiber supplements have caused intestinal blockages. If you have any chronic disease, talk to a doctor before you start using a fiber supplement. The sugar and salt in some supplements, particularly powders, might be risky for people with diabetes or high blood pressure. People with diabetes may want to choose a sugar-free powder or another form of fiber. Blond psyllium is the most common type of fiber supplement on the market.

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Intestinal constipation: causes, treatment, diet

Every person faced the problem of constipation at least once in his life. If difficulties with bowel movements are observed regularly, then the pathology has acquired a chronic form. In chronic constipation, bowel movements occur less than 3 times a week. At the same time, the chair itself is rare and hard. A constipated person spends more time on the toilet than usual. In the process of defecation, the straining time increases.

Causes of constipation

Intestinal constipation can occur for various reasons.

The first cluster of causes is associated with congenital or acquired pathologies of the large intestine:

• anal fissures
• polyps
• internal and external hemorrhoids
• tumors
• megarectum
• megadolichosigma
• atresia

The second type of causes of constipation include concomitant diseases of the digestive, endocrine and genitourinary systems.

There are also a number of causes of unknown origin, due to which the motility of the rectum and colon is impaired.

Functional constipation can be caused by malnutrition. Eating low in dietary fiber, as well as taking certain medications (diuretics, antidepressants, iron supplements, antacids, anticholinergics) interfere with bowel movements.

A few more causes of chronic constipation:

• wrong way of life
• “knocked down” day and night mode
• lack of physical activity
• low fluid intake (body dehydration)
• “inert” colon syndrome (slow movement of feces)

Special mention should be made of constipation during pregnancy – due to the internal pressure of the fetus, there may be a delay in bowel movements.

Treatment of constipation

People who have problems with bowel movements often ask themselves the question: what to do with constipation? The treatment of constipation, including chronic constipation, is aimed at eliminating the primary pathology that resulted in the problem, as well as changing lifestyle, diet, working conditions, etc.

For the treatment of constipation, a proctologist or gastroenterologist should be consulted. Frequent constipation can be a sign of serious diseases of the stomach and intestines, so we do not recommend self-medication: it would be wiser to make an appointment with a trusted specialist.

Qualified doctors of the Naedine Clinic will conduct a complete examination of the gastrointestinal tract, establish the root cause of the problem and choose the appropriate method of treatment.

Medications are widely used in the treatment of constipation. The type of medication, dose and duration of administration are calculated individually for each patient.

Diet for constipation

Doctor prescribes a special diet for constipation . It is necessary to eat foods rich in fiber daily, for example:

• wheat, oatmeal, pearl barley, buckwheat cereals
• vegetables (carrots, beets, marrows)
• wholemeal bread
• bran
• fruits and berries, including dried fruits (figs, prunes, dates, dried apricots, bananas, non-sour apples)
• vegetable and fruit juices
• fermented milk products (kefir, curdled milk, acidophilus)
• olive, sunflower, linseed, corn oil

Food should be taken 4 times a day. The amount of fluid consumed for constipation should be at least 1.5 liters per day.

The patient must “learn” to go to the toilet to empty his bowels in the morning. With the right treatment regimen, the patient will be able to walk “in a big way” every 1-2 days.

Sign up for a consultation with a proctologist at the Naedine Clinic by phone (8332) 32-7777 or through the online appointment form on our website!

Difficult defecation syndrome – Tartu Ülikooli Kliinikum

Difficult defecation syndrome

You suffer from constipation. Liberation
bowel does not occur regularly. Constipation is a common problem
which is more common in older women. Constipation has several different forms.
One of these forms is the syndrome of difficult defecation. Often constipation
is one of the symptoms of weakness of the pelvic muscles.

What are the symptoms of obstructed bowel syndrome?

Most common problems:

• laxatives or klistir.
• Patients should help themselves with bowel movements
  fingers.
• It takes a long time to empty the bowels
  strain in the toilet.
• Feeling incomplete when leaving the toilet
  intestines.
• The patient must visit the toilet several times to
  empty the bowels completely.
• During or after exertion, there is often pain and discomfort in the pelvic area.
• Sometimes the bowels can empty spontaneously.

Does dietary modification help?

Patients with constipation can often
help themselves if they increase the amount of fiber in their diet, they will drink
Enough fluids and start exercising. Usually,
it brings positive results. If the measures taken do not help,
then the cause of constipation may be obstructed defecation syndrome. The essence of the problem
a specialized doctor will explain to you after a thorough examination
patient and special studies.

What is obstructed defecation syndrome?

Obstructed defecation syndrome
may be due to various changes in the anatomy of the rectum, which in
in turn, they contribute to the fact that feces are heated in the rectum. Data
changes are more common in women who have given birth. Sometimes similar problems can
be in both men and nulliparous women.

Often causes of the syndrome
difficult defecation are:

• Protrusion of the wall of the rectum into the lumen of the rectum,
  which leads to the formation of a blockage in the path of feces (internal prolapse)
• Local expansion that occurs when stretched
  anterior wall of the rectum where feces accumulate (rectocele)

Surgical treatment

Patients with the syndrome
difficult bowel movements may require surgery. One of the possible
surgical methods is the operation of transanal resection of the rectum
stapler (STARR). During the STARR operation, a special stapler is used, which is inserted through
anus into the rectum and through which it is circularly removed
segment of the lower part of the rectum with simultaneous application of a restorative
rectum suture. This restores the normal structure of the rectum
and both rectocele and internal prolapse are eliminated.

Postoperative period

The STARR operation is performed under general anesthesia, and after the operation the patient
stays in the hospital for 1-3 days. Postoperative pain is usually mild
strong and stopped by light painkillers. Physical activity allowed
10 days after the operation. In 20-30% of patients in the postoperative period
there may be a need to go to the toilet often and “quickly”, they may also
problems with holding gas. Based on experience, it can be said that
these problems are resolved in 1-6 months.

Risks associated with surgery STARR

Like all surgical procedures, STARR surgery comes with some risks. Most of this risk is associated with bleeding and infection in the early postoperative period. In patients who had symptoms of incontinence prior to surgery, there is a possibility that the incontinence will worsen.

What are the results of the STARR operation?

The first results of the STARR operation are very promising.