Bowel Problems, Conditions & Symptoms

Bowel Category

The first and most important point to remember is that everyone with a bowel problem can be helped and many can be completely cured.

If you have been diagnosed with bowel (faecal) incontinence, IBS, Colitis, Crohns, constipation or other bowel problems you can search the down menus below to find out more information about your specific condition or problem. If you have not been diagnosed by a health professional, the following questions about your symptoms should help you find the information you are looking for.

• Do you find it difficult to have a bowel movement or have a bowel movement less than 3 times a week and have to strain
• Excessively or do not feel completely empty? You may be constipated.
• Do you pass watery or very loose stools more than 3 times in a day? You may have diarrhoea.
• Do you have abdominal pain (in the lower left part of the abdomen) and a change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhoea or alternating between both), with a mild fever and nausea and vomiting? These are symptoms of diverticular disease.
• If you have diarrhoea, weight loss and abdominal pain, these could be signs of Crohn’s Disease.
• Do you have bloody diarrhoea or diarrhoea containing mucus and the constant urge to go to the toilet even though nothing comes out, with or without abdominal pain? These are symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis.
• Do you leak faeces without being aware of it? This could be bowel or faecal incontinence.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you must see your GP as soon as possible:

• bleeding from your back passage
• blood in your stools (faeces), which can make them look bright red, dark red, or black
• a change in normal bowel habits lasting three weeks or more
• unexplained weight loss and tiredness
• an unexplained pain or lump in your tummy

Once you have a clearer idea of what your problem may be or if you have been diagnosed you can visit our treatment section to see what your options are for managing your symptoms or condition. Information dealing with the more practical and emotional side of coping with bowel problems can be found by visiting the support section.

How to approach your GP about your bowel problems

It is never too late to get help with your bowel problems. If you would like some advice on how to approach your GP regarding your bowel problem you may find our Advice Sheet helpful. It also includes information on tests that your GP may recommend you have done. To download, please click on this link Bowel Advice Sheet.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is the name health professionals give to a series of symptoms relating to a disturbance of the large bowel that cannot be explained by any other disease. So what are the Symptoms of IBS? What are the…

Rectal prolapse is when part of your rectum or the lining of your rectum, protrudes through your anus. Find out common causes, symptoms, and details of test and diagnosis.

What is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is an inflammation of one or more diverticulum, which are pockets that form in the smooth wall of the intestine. The reason that diverticulitis develops has not been entirely confirmed, but it is…

Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS is a chronic relapsing and often lifelong disorder involving a collection of symptoms, which vary from person to person. This is a guide to what to look out for and how you can better manage IBS.

Coeliac Disease is a common chronic autoimmune condition that affects around one in every 100 people. The condition is a reaction of the immune system to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. You are more likely to…

Hirschsprung’s Disease is a rare congenital disorder that affects the large bowel (colon), which causes severe constipation and/ or bowel obstruction. This disease affects one in 5,000 babies born. In Hirschsprung’s Disease, the ganglion…

What Is A Bowel Obstruction?
A bowel obstruction can be a serious condition, which can occur in the large or small bowel. A small bowel obstruction commonly occurs where loops of intestine can easily get blocked or twisted. A…

Short Bowel Syndrome is a rare and complex disease which usually develops after a significant portion of small bowel and /or colon is removed surgically. This condition can also occasionally happen as a result of a portion of the bowel…

Diarrhoea can cause frequent and urgent desires to go to the toilet. Learn about what causes this diarrhoea, the symptoms and how to treat it effectively.

Bowel cancer is also called colorectal cancer and includes large bowel cancer (colon cancer) and cancer of the back passage (rectal cancer or cancer of the rectum).

Constipation | Johns Hopkins Medicine

What is constipation?

Constipation is a condition in which a person has uncomfortable or infrequent bowel movements. Generally, a person is considered to be constipated when bowel movements result in passage of small amounts of hard, dry stool, usually fewer than three times a week. However, normal stool elimination may consist of having a bowel movement three times a day or three times a week; it depends on the person.

About 4 million people in the United States have frequent constipation. Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal complaint, resulting in 2.5 million doctor visits annually.

What causes constipation?

Hard, dry stools are the result of the colon absorbing too much water. Normally, as food moves through the colon (also known as the large intestine) the colon absorbs water while forming stool (waste products). Muscle contractions then push the stool toward the rectum, and, by the time the stool reaches the rectum, most of the water has been absorbed, making the stool solid.

When the colon’s muscle contractions are slow or sluggish, the stool moves through the colon too slowly, resulting in too much water being absorbed. Some of the most common causes of constipation include the following:

• Medications

• Lack of exercise

• Not enough liquids

• Not enough fiber in the diet

• Irritable bowel syndrome

• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement

• Changes in habits or lifestyle, such as travel, pregnancy, and old age

• Problems with intestinal function

• Abuse of laxatives

What are the symptoms of constipation?

The following are the most common symptoms of constipation. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• Difficult and painful bowel movements

• Bowel movements fewer than three times a week

• Feeling bloated or uncomfortable

• Feeling sluggish

• Abdominal pain

The symptoms of constipation may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis. 

How is constipation diagnosed?

The tests performed by a doctor will depend on the duration and severity of the constipation, since most persons experience constipation at one time or another. The doctor will also take into account the patient’s age, and whether there is blood in the stool, recent changes in bowel habits, or weight loss.

Diagnosing constipation may include:

• Medical history. The doctor will ask for a description of the constipation, including duration of symptoms, frequency of bowel movements, and other information to help determine the cause of the constipation.

• Physical examination. A physical examination may also include a digital rectal examination (DRE), in which the doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to evaluate the tone of the muscle that closes off the anus. This examination also helps detect tenderness, obstruction,  blood, amount and caliber of stool, and if enlargement of the rectum is present.

Other diagnostic tests may include:

• Abdominal X-ray

• Lower GI (gastrointestinal) series (also called barium enema). A lower GI series is a procedure that examines the rectum, the large intestine, and the lower part of the small intestine. A fluid called barium (a metallic, chemical, chalky, liquid used to coat the inside of organs so that they will show up on an X-ray) is given into the rectum as an enema. An X-ray of the abdomen shows strictures (narrowed areas), obstructions (blockages), and other problems.

• Colonoscopy. Colonoscopy is a procedure that allows the doctor to view the entire length of the large intestine, and can often help identify abnormal growths, inflamed tissue, ulcers, and bleeding. It involves inserting a colonoscope, a long, flexible, lighted tube, in through the rectum up into the colon. The colonoscope allows the doctor to see the lining of the colon, remove tissue for further examination, and possibly treat some problems that are discovered.

• Sigmoidoscopy. A sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows the doctor to examine the inside of a portion of the large intestine, and is helpful in identifying the causes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, abnormal growths, and bleeding. A short, flexible, lighted tube, called a sigmoidoscope, is inserted into the intestine through the rectum. The scope blows air into the intestine to inflate it and make viewing the inside easier.

• Colorectal transit study. This test shows how well food moves through the colon. The patient swallows capsules containing small markers which are visible on X-ray. The patient follows a high-fiber diet during the course of the test, and the movement of the markers through the colon is monitored with abdominal X-rays taken several times three to seven days after the capsule is swallowed.

• Anorectal function tests. These tests diagnose constipation caused by an abnormal functioning of the anus or rectum.

Treatment for constipation

Specific treatment for constipation will be determined by your doctor based on:

• Your age, overall health, and medical history

• Extent of the condition

• Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies

• Expectations for the course of this condition

• Your opinion or preference

Most often, constipation can be treated through dietary and lifestyle changes, which relieve symptoms and help prevent the condition. Treatment may include:

• Diet modifications. A diet with 20 to 35 grams of fiber daily helps in the formation of soft, bulky stool. While adding foods such as beans, whole grains, bran cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables is helpful in adding fiber to the diet. Limiting foods such as ice cream, cheeses, meats, and processed foods, which contain little or no fiber can also be helpful.

• Laxatives. Laxatives may be prescribed after diet and lifestyle changes have failed to be effective.

• Eliminating or changing medication

• Biofeedback. Biofeedback is used to treat chronic constipation caused by anorectal dysfunction. This treatment retrains the muscles that control release of bowel movements.

Lifestyle changes, such as increased water and juice intake, regular exercise, and allowing enough time for daily bowel movements can be helpful.

What are good fiber sources?

What are complications of constipation?

Constipation can cause complications, such as hemorrhoids, which occur by straining to have a bowel movement, or anal fissures (tears in the skin around the anus) which occur when hard stool stretches the sphincter muscle. This can result in rectal bleeding.

Sometimes, straining also causes rectal prolapse, where a small amount of intestinal lining pushes out from the anal opening. Constipation may also cause fecal impaction, which occurs mostly in children and older adults. The hard stool packs the intestine and rectum so tightly that the normal pushing action of the colon is not enough to expel the stool.

features of the problem and ways to solve it

Contents

• 1 Incomplete bowel movement: how to get rid of the trouble and improve the quality of life?
  • 1.1 Incomplete bowel movement: the problem and its solution
  • 1.2 Causes of incomplete bowel movement
  • 1.3 Main symptoms of incomplete bowel movement
  • 1.4 Consequences and possible complications
  • 1.5 How to diagnose the problem of incomplete bowel bowel movements
  • 1.6 How to maintain a normal bowel movement?
  • 1.7 Diet and diet for incomplete bowel movements
    • 1. 7.1 What is incomplete bowel movement?
    • 1.7.2 Which diet helps to solve the problem of incomplete bowel movements?
    • 1.7.3 What is the diet for incomplete bowel movements?
  • 1.8 Folk remedies for incomplete bowel movements
    • 1.8.1 1. Variety of fruits and vegetables
    • 1.8.2 2. Kefir and yogurt
    • 1.8.3 3. Olive oil
    • 1.8.4 4. Coriander
    • 1.8.5 5. Aloe vera juice

  9 0005 1.9 Modern treatments for incomplete bowel movements

  • 1.9.1 Using probiotics
  • 1.9.2 Using drugs to increase intestinal motor skills
  • 1.9.3 Surgical intervention
  • 1.10 Forecast for patients with incomplete exposure of the intestines
  • 1.10008
  • 1.12 Q&A:
    • • 1.12.0.1 What is incomplete bowel movement?
      • 1.12.0.2 What are the main causes of incomplete bowel movements?
      • 1.12.0.3 What are the symptoms of incomplete bowel movements?
      • 1. 12.0.4 How can incomplete bowel movements be treated?
      • 1.12.0.5 Can incomplete bowel movements be prevented?
      • 1.12.0.6 When should you see a doctor if you suspect incomplete bowel movements?

Incomplete bowel movements can lead to many problems, including indigestion, constipation and discomfort. Find out how to deal with this nuisance and keep your gut healthy.

The intestine is an organ that plays an important role in the process of removing waste from the body. However, some people have trouble emptying it, which can lead to discomfort and even disease.

Incomplete emptying of the bowels is a condition in which not all of the contents of the intestines are excreted with a mimic act, as a result of which the person has a feeling of incomplete emptying and discomfort in the rectum.

This problem can be caused by various reasons such as poor diet, reduced physical activity, stress, etc. Although incomplete bowel movements may be tolerable for some people, in fact, this condition requires attention and solution.

In this article, we look at the causes of incomplete bowel movements, methods of diagnosis and treatment, as well as provide a number of recommendations for proper bowel care and prevention of this problem.

Incomplete bowel movement: the problem and its solution

Incomplete bowel movement is a condition where all waste is not removed from the body during bowel movements. This is a serious condition that can lead to many complications.

Another successful solution to the problem is a wellness massage of the abdominal cavity. For a long time, it has already been used to treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including incomplete emptying of the intestine. Massage improves the digestion of food and contributes to its more complete removal.

• Increased consumption of water and foods containing vegetable fibers;
• Remedial abdominal massage;

If the problem persists for about a month, you should contact a specialized specialist who will diagnose and prescribe the appropriate therapy. Proper treatment and a rational approach to treatment can help eliminate the problem, avoid its recurrence and significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.

Causes of incomplete bowel movement

One of the main causes of incomplete bowel movements is improper diet. Eating a large amount of fatty, fried, starchy foods, as well as a lack of water and fiber in the diet, can lead to congestion in the intestines and metabolic disorders.

Another cause of may be a sedentary lifestyle or lack of physical activity. Hypodynamia slows down the work of the intestine and contributes to the violation of its functions.

It is not uncommon for incomplete bowel movements to be caused by stress. Emotional overstrain leads to indigestion and impaired motor skills.

Some diseases such as chronic constipation, hemorrhoids, bowel disease, etc., can also cause incomplete bowel movements.

Finally, one of the reasons for incomplete bowel movements may be taking certain medications. Some medications can cause constipation and bowel problems.

Main symptoms of incomplete bowel movement

Feeling of incomplete bowel movement is one of the main signs of this disease. A person may feel that there is some feces left in the intestines after going to the toilet. This causes discomfort and inconvenience, and can also lead to intestinal irritation and constipation.

Increased gas production is another typical symptom of incomplete bowel movement. Due to the presence of fecal residues in the intestines, fermentation of food masses occurs, which in turn leads to the formation of gases and bloating. This can lead to abdominal pain and increased symptoms of incomplete emptying.

Frequent visits to the toilet may be a sign of incomplete bowel movements. The person will feel the need to go to the toilet again a short time after the previous emptying, but will be able to excrete a small amount of feces. This can be repeated several times, leading to discomfort and poor quality of life.

1. Bloating

Gas in the intestines can cause an increase in the volume of the abdomen, which is called bloating. This symptom can vary from slight swelling to a significant increase in the volume of the abdomen, which disrupts the work of other organs in the abdominal cavity.

Effects and possible complications

Incomplete bowel movements can lead to a number of serious problems, including constipation, diverticulosis disease, anal fissures and hemorrhoids.

Diverticulosis disease can also be associated with incomplete bowel movements. This is a condition in which sections of the intestine begin to bulge, which can also lead to constipation and diarrhea. If the diverticulum ruptures, it can cause peritonitis, a dangerous inflammatory disease of the abdominal cavity.

Anal fissures are sharp pains that usually occur during defecation. They can be caused by tension in the anus due to incomplete emptying of the bowel.

Finally, hemorrhoids are the expansion and protrusion of blood vessels in the anus, possibly caused by incomplete emptying of the intestine. This can lead to bleeding and additional pain.

Methods for diagnosing the problem of incomplete bowel movement

One of the most common ways to diagnose the problem of incomplete bowel movement is computed tomography. This is a non-invasive method that allows you to visualize the intestines and determine how well it is cleaned. This method can also help in identifying other problems associated with the intestines.

An X-ray of the bowel is also used. This method can be helpful in identifying nodules and tumors in the intestines, which can lead to problems with bowel cleansing.

• Computed tomography – a non-invasive method for visualizing the intestine
• Endoscopy – allows you to look at the inside of the intestine
• X-ray – helps to identify nodes and tumors in the intestine

In some cases, a biopsy may be required to check tissue for the presence of diseases. However, this method is rarely used in the diagnosis of incomplete bowel movements, as it is more invasive and is associated with a risk of unpleasant consequences.

How to maintain normal bowel movements?

Incomplete bowel movements can lead to various health problems. To avoid this situation, you should follow a few rules:

• Drink enough water. Lack of fluids can lead to constipation and difficult bowel movements. Try to drink at least two liters a day.
• Increase the amount of plant foods in your diet. Vegetables and fruits contain fiber, which helps to improve the peristalsis of the celiac tract.
• Avoid fatty, spicy and salty foods. These foods may irritate the intestines and contribute to constipation.
• Exercise. Moderate physical activity helps improve intestinal motility.
• Watch your diet. Eating regularly helps improve bowel function and avoid problems with bowel movements.

Take care of your health and avoid problems with bowel movements. At the first symptoms, seek medical advice.

Diet and diet for incomplete bowel movements

What is incomplete bowel movement?

Incomplete bowel movement is a condition in which the bowel is not completely cleared during a bowel movement. This problem can have various causes, including a sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, improper diet, and other factors.

Which diet helps to solve the problem of incomplete bowel movements?

Diet is an important aspect in the treatment of incomplete bowel movements. It is important to eat food that contains enough fiber to promote more active peristaltic bowel movement. Fiber is found in vegetables, fruits, green vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds.

In addition, foods that promote constipation should be avoided, such as fatty and fried foods, canned foods, smoked meats, sweets and flour products. It is also important to control the amount of fluids consumed, as lack of water can cause constipation.

What is the diet for incomplete bowel movements?

The diet for incomplete bowel movements should be regular and varied. It is recommended to eat frequent and small portions of food to stimulate the intestines to peristalsis. It is important to eat at the same time every day.

In addition, it is recommended to include fermented milk products in the diet, which contain beneficial bacteria for intestinal health. You must also avoid overeating and chew your food thoroughly.

Folk remedies for incomplete bowel movements

1. A variety of fruits and vegetables

In order to improve bowel movement, a variety of fruits and vegetables containing high amounts of fiber should be consumed. People who suffer from problems with incomplete bowel movements should include foods such as apples, pears, plums, mangoes, as well as broccoli, carrots, eggplant, zucchini and cabbage in their diet.

2. Kefir and yogurt

Kefir and yogurt are good sources of beneficial bacteria that improve the gut microbiome. Eating these foods can help reduce gut inflammation, improve digestion, and increase stool mass levels.

3. Olive oil

Olive oil is an excellent source of healthy fats that support normal bowel function. It can help relieve constipation as well as increase stool mass. For maximum benefits, olive oil should be consumed raw or added to cooked meals.

4. Coriander

Coriander is a natural remedy for intestinal problems. It helps with improving digestion, relieves inflammation and reduces gas formation. For best results, add it to meals, use it as a tea, or take special supplements.

5. Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera juice is an excellent remedy for gentle and natural bowel cleansing. It encourages bowel movements, reduces inflammation, and helps with the elimination of toxins. It is worth remembering that aloe vera is a medicinal plant, so you should consult your doctor before using it.

• A variety of fruits and vegetables should be consumed to improve bowel movements;
• Kefir and yogurt are excellent sources of beneficial bacteria that help improve the gut microbiome;
• Olive oil is an excellent source of healthy fats that promote normal bowel function;
• Coriander helps with digestion, relieves inflammation and reduces gas;
• Aloe vera juice helps with gentle and natural colon cleansing, reducing inflammation and eliminating toxins.

Modern treatments for incomplete bowel movements

Use of probiotics

One of the treatments for incomplete bowel movements is the use of probiotics. Natural cultures of microorganisms help to improve digestion and increase the level of immunity.

Probiotic cultures can be obtained from fermented, pickled or fermented milk products, as well as using special medications.

Use of drugs to increase intestinal motility

To increase intestinal motility, special preparations are used that improve the contraction of the intestinal muscles.

These preparations may contain agents that increase peristalsis, as well as preparations that normalize the acidity and composition of the intestinal microflora.

Surgery

If conservative treatments for incomplete bowel movements fail, surgery may be required.

Surgery may involve removing obstructions in the bowel or correcting deformities that prevent complete emptying.

Prognosis for patients with incomplete bowel movements

Incomplete bowel movement is a serious problem that can lead to various complications. The prognosis for patients depends on many factors: the degree of the disease, the age of the patient, the presence of other diseases.

However, if the disease is accompanied by other diseases, such as hemorrhoids or proctitis, the prognosis may be worse. In such cases, complex treatment is necessary, aimed at eliminating all causes of the disease.

In any case, it is important to see a doctor at the first sign of incomplete bowel movements. The sooner you start treatment, the better your prognosis will be for your health.

• The main factors influencing the prognosis of the development of the disease:
• The degree of the disease;
• Patient’s age;
• Presence of other diseases;
• Correct setting of nutrition and daily routine;
• Timely treatment and diagnosis.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is incomplete bowel movement?

Incomplete bowel movement is a condition where after a bowel movement there is a feeling of an incomplete act and some stool remains in the rectum or sigmoid colon.

What are the main causes of incomplete bowel movements?

The main causes of incomplete bowel movements can be associated with common bowel diseases, such as chronic constipation, dysbacteriosis, hemorrhoids or proctitis. Also, this condition can be caused by psychological factors, such as stress or depression, as well as infectious diseases of the intestine.

What are the symptoms of incomplete bowel movements?

The main symptoms of incomplete bowel movements are a feeling of incomplete defecation, frequent visits to the toilet, pain during defecation, and the presence of traces of feces on paper after the toilet.

How can incomplete bowel movements be treated?

Treatment for incomplete bowel movements depends on the cause. To eliminate incomplete emptying, it may be necessary to change the diet, introduce special exercises for the pelvic muscles, take medications to improve intestinal motility, or undergo physical therapy.

Can incomplete bowel movements be prevented?

Incomplete bowel movements can be prevented by following healthy habits and proper nutrition, including drinking enough water and fiber, and avoiding foods that cause constipation.

When should you see a doctor if you suspect incomplete bowel movements?

If you experience the described symptoms of incomplete bowel movements, you should see your doctor for a thorough examination and diagnosis of the cause of the problem. Only a doctor can choose the most effective treatment method and offer a solution that is most suitable for your situation.

signs, causes, diagnosis, treatment, prevention

1. Main
2. Services
3. Gastroenterologist

Not only elderly people complain about the lack of normal regular stools, but also young patients. This problem also occurs in children. This violation of regular bowel movements is called constipation. Unfortunately, not always the victims themselves attach serious importance to constipation. Many try to correct the situation with the help of folk methods, which only help for a short time, and then everything repeats again.

There are many reasons for stool retention, but only an experienced gastroenterologist can understand this issue. Clinic “Edkar” in Kaliningrad is a modern multidisciplinary medical facility, equipped with the latest technology. A friendly team of the best specialists daily provides assistance to dozens of residents of the region.

General information

Constipation can be considered the absence of a bowel movement for two days. Also, incomplete bowel movement refers to this type of disorder. Constipation can be situational (episodic) and chronic.

• The first type of disorder is observed in people with an unstable psycho-emotional background. They elementarily restrain the urge to empty the intestines in an inappropriate environment: for example, while traveling. When the situation changes, there is a productive transit of feces. Situational constipation affects people who drink little and eat solid foods. This type of constipation is not considered a pathology.
• The chronic absence of normal bowel movements causes real suffering to patients. Firstly, the accumulation of feces causes intoxication of the body, therefore, the general condition of a person worsens. The second negative quality of systematic constipation is that over time they steadily lead to serious complications.

Good to know: chronic constipation accelerates the aging process.

Signs of constipation

Not all stool retention is constipation. The diagnosis takes into account the nature and frequency of emptying. The main signs of constipation:

• Fecal mass less than 0.3 kg in 3 days.
• Delayed normal emptying over two days.
• Difficult defecation.
• Feeling of incomplete emptying after going to the toilet.
• Dry feces in the form of hard lumps.

People who are prone to constipation usually have a combination of all of the above. But even the presence of one of them may indicate a serious problem.

Causes of irregular stools

The main cause of constipation is functional disorders of the intestines. In this part of the gastrointestinal tract, the process of converting food debris into feces occurs. If the intestines work normally, nothing prevents the act of defecation. With weak motor skills, which is often observed in older patients, emptying is difficult. In addition, over the years, the sensitivity of receptors in the rectum decreases. For this reason, more pressure is required to form the urge. The following reasons can also provoke constipation:

• false shame when a person is in unusual conditions;
• lack of daily bowel habit;
• suppression of the urge to defecate, which occurs with anal fissures and hemorrhoids;
• sedentary lifestyle;
• eating dry protein foods;
• endocrine pathologies;
• tumor formation;
• taking certain medicines;
• atherosclerosis of intestinal vessels;
• stressful situations;
• weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.

Contributes to the development of chronic constipation shift work and frequent use of laxatives. Stool retention is one of the main clinical signs of irritable bowel syndrome.

Symptoms of constipation

Clinical manifestations of systemic constipation are very diverse. But the most common scenarios can be given:

• The frequency of stools is 2-3 per week.
• Stool hard in the form of lumps or balls.
• Flatulence almost always accompanies constipation.
• Sometimes there is a so-called “constipation diarrhea” when the feces are mixed with a lot of mucus.
• Decreased appetite or complete refusal to eat.
• Belching with bad taste.
• Abdominal heaviness and pain.
• Deterioration of the skin: it becomes pale and flabby, pimples appear.

In people suffering from systematic constipation, sleep worsens, they become apathetic or, conversely, get irritated over trifles.

With a sharp deterioration in the patient’s well-being and the appearance of blood in the stool, there is reason to suspect the presence of complications.

Complications

Systemic constipation is a very serious problem that requires the intervention of a gastroenterologist in Kaliningrad. Sometimes the patient’s condition requires surgical intervention due to the development of intestinal obstruction. Intestinal volvulus is another common complication of constipation.

Permanent constipation significantly impairs the quality of life and adversely affects the professional activity of a person.

Diagnosis

Prolonged absence of normal bowel movements requires careful diagnosis. At the first stage, the gastroenterologist collects an anamnesis, examines the patient. Taking into account his complaints and clinical manifestations, instrumental types of examination are prescribed:

• Radiography of the large intestine gives a visual picture that allows the doctor to assess the width of the lumen and identify tumors.
• Colonoscopy is a modern method of endoscopic examination, and if necessary, the doctor can take material for histology.
• Anorectal Manometry is another advanced method for measuring rectal and pelvic floor muscle tone.
• Defecography is done to assess evacuation function.

In addition to instrumental procedures, a number of laboratory tests are performed: coprogram, fecal occult blood test.

Treatment of constipation

Depending on the identified cause of constipation, the doctor prescribes treatment. But the basis of any treatment regimen is proper nutrition. No less important is the way of life. If the patient spends most of his time sitting at his desk, wakes up late, and then runs to work, swallowing a sandwich on the go, no medication will help him. Of course, one cannot do without medications for chronic constipation, but they are used to relieve unpleasant symptoms.

Prevention

In principle, in case of systemic bowel problems, prevention consists in lifestyle modification.

1. First of all, you need to adjust the power supply. Supplement your diet with fiber-rich foods. These are fruits and vegetables, bread, cereals.
2. The water balance should also be changed, since lack of fluid provokes the development of constipation.
3. Physical activity. Moderate exercise is beneficial even for the elderly. Working on the site or a regular half-hour walk improves blood circulation and increases muscle tone.
4. Massage will help the intestines to clear regularly. The procedure is best performed after waking up before breakfast. It is necessary to massage the stomach in a clockwise direction.
5. Don’t overeat at night, because the intestines also need rest. Dinner should be light and well absorbed by the digestive tract.

The gastroenterologist will give more detailed recommendations to the patient after the examination. This event at the Edkar clinic will not take much time. We do not have queues and always friendly atmosphere. Therefore, not only those who live in Kaliningrad, but also patients from other regions of the country and even foreign citizens often turn to us for help.