What are the common causes of severe constipation. How can you recognize the symptoms of chronic constipation. What are the most effective treatments for severe constipation. When should you seek medical attention for constipation. How can dietary changes help alleviate constipation. What are the potential complications of untreated constipation. How can fiber supplements improve bowel health and regularity.

Understanding Constipation: Definition and Prevalence

Constipation is a common digestive issue characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools. 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. This condition affects almost everyone at some point in their lives, but chronic constipation can significantly impact one’s quality of life.

Is constipation a serious medical condition? While occasional constipation is usually not a cause for concern, chronic or severe constipation can lead to complications and may indicate underlying health issues. It’s essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and available treatments to manage this condition effectively.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Severe Constipation

Identifying the symptoms of constipation is crucial for timely intervention and treatment. Common signs include:

• Infrequent bowel movements (less than three times a week)
• Difficulty or straining during bowel movements
• Hard or small stools
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation
• Abdominal bloating and discomfort
• Need for manual assistance to empty bowels

Can constipation cause abdominal pain? Yes, severe constipation can lead to abdominal pain and discomfort due to the buildup of stool in the colon. This pain may be accompanied by bloating and a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen.

Common Causes of Constipation: Lifestyle and Medical Factors

Understanding the underlying causes of constipation is essential for effective management and prevention. Some common factors include:

Lifestyle Factors:

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

Medical Factors:

• Certain medications (e.g., opioids, antidepressants, iron supplements)
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Pregnancy
• Neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis)
• Hypothyroidism
• Colon cancer

Does a high-dairy diet contribute to constipation? Some studies suggest that excessive consumption of dairy products, particularly those high in fat, may contribute to constipation in some individuals. However, the effect can vary from person to person.

Effective Remedies and Lifestyle Changes for Constipation Relief

Fortunately, there are several strategies to alleviate constipation and promote regular bowel movements:

1. Increase fiber intake: Consume more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
3. Exercise regularly: Engage in moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day.
4. Establish a regular toilet routine: Don’t ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
5. Consider natural laxatives: Prunes, flaxseeds, and chia seeds can help promote regularity.
6. Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.

How quickly can dietary changes improve constipation? While individual responses may vary, many people experience improvement in their bowel habits within a few days to a week after implementing dietary changes. Consistency is key for long-term relief.

The Role of Laxatives in Treating Severe Constipation

When lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, laxatives can provide relief from constipation. There are several types of laxatives available over-the-counter:

• Bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., psyllium)
• Osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol)
• Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl)
• Stool softeners (e.g., docusate)
• Lubricant laxatives (e.g., mineral oil)

Are laxatives safe for long-term use? While occasional use of laxatives is generally safe, long-term use or overuse can lead to dependence and other health issues. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using laxatives regularly, especially for chronic constipation.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Constipation

While most cases of constipation can be managed at home, certain situations warrant medical attention:

• Constipation lasting more than three weeks
• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Sudden onset of constipation, especially in older adults
• Constipation accompanied by fever or vomiting

What diagnostic tests might a doctor perform for chronic constipation? Depending on the individual case, a healthcare provider may recommend blood tests to check hormone levels, anorectal manometry to assess muscle function, or a colonoscopy to rule out structural issues or colon cancer.

Potential Complications of Untreated Constipation

If left untreated, chronic constipation can lead to several complications:

• Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the anus or rectum
• Anal fissures: Small tears in the anus
• Fecal impaction: Hardened stool that’s difficult to pass
• Rectal prolapse: A condition where part of the rectum protrudes from the anus
• Urinary incontinence: Difficulty controlling bladder function

Can chronic constipation increase the risk of colon cancer? While constipation itself doesn’t directly cause colon cancer, chronic constipation may be associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Regular screenings are important, especially for those with persistent digestive issues.

The Benefits of Fiber Supplements for Digestive Health

Fiber supplements can be an effective way to increase dietary fiber intake and improve bowel regularity. Common types of fiber supplements include:

• Psyllium husk
• Methylcellulose
• Inulin
• Wheat dextrin

These supplements work by adding bulk to the stool, promoting regular bowel movements, and supporting overall digestive health.

How much fiber should you consume daily for optimal digestive health? The recommended daily intake of fiber is 25-30 grams for adults. However, individual needs may vary based on age, gender, and overall health status. It’s best to gradually increase fiber intake to avoid digestive discomfort.

Additional Benefits of Fiber Intake

Beyond promoting regular bowel movements, a high-fiber diet offers several other health benefits:

• Reduced risk of heart disease
• Better blood sugar control
• Weight management support
• Improved cholesterol levels
• Enhanced gut microbiome health

Can fiber supplements help with weight loss? While fiber supplements alone are not a magic solution for weight loss, they can contribute to weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake. However, they should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise for optimal results.

Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Modifications for Constipation Relief

In addition to dietary changes and fiber supplements, several natural remedies and lifestyle modifications can help alleviate constipation:

Herbal Teas

Certain herbal teas have mild laxative effects and can promote digestive health:

• Senna tea
• Peppermint tea
• Ginger tea
• Dandelion root tea

Abdominal Massage

Gentle abdominal massage can help stimulate bowel movements by promoting peristalsis, the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Squat Position

Using a squatting position or a toilet stool while having a bowel movement can help align the colon for easier passage of stool.

Probiotics

Probiotic supplements or fermented foods can help balance gut bacteria and improve overall digestive health.

Are probiotics effective for treating 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 among individuals.

The Impact of Medications on Bowel Function

Various medications can contribute to or exacerbate constipation. Some common culprits include:

• Opioid pain relievers
• Antidepressants
• Iron supplements
• Calcium channel blockers
• Antacids containing aluminum or calcium
• Antihistamines
• Diuretics

If you suspect that your medication is causing constipation, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your regimen.

Can changing medications alleviate medication-induced constipation? In some cases, switching to an alternative medication or adjusting the dosage can help relieve constipation. However, this should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure that the underlying condition is still adequately managed.

Special Considerations for Constipation in Specific Populations

Pregnancy

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

• Increasing fiber and fluid intake
• Gentle exercise, such as walking or prenatal yoga
• Using pregnancy-safe stool softeners under medical supervision

Elderly Individuals

Older adults are more prone to constipation due to reduced mobility, medication use, and changes in digestive function. Management approaches include:

• Maintaining adequate hydration
• Encouraging regular physical activity
• Reviewing and adjusting medications with a healthcare provider

Children

Constipation in children requires careful management to prevent long-term issues. Strategies include:

• Ensuring a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Encouraging regular toilet habits
• Using age-appropriate fiber supplements or laxatives under pediatric guidance

How can parents help prevent constipation in children? Encouraging healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and establishing a consistent toilet routine can help prevent constipation in children. It’s also important to address any anxiety or fear around using the bathroom, especially in school settings.

The Connection Between Gut Health and Overall Well-being

Emerging research highlights the importance of gut health in overall well-being. The gut microbiome, composed of trillions of microorganisms living in our digestive tract, plays a crucial role in various aspects of health, including:

• Immune function
• Mental health
• Nutrient absorption
• Inflammation regulation
• Hormonal balance

Maintaining a healthy gut through proper diet, regular exercise, and stress management can contribute to improved digestive function and overall health.

Can improving gut health alleviate chronic constipation? While more research is needed, some studies suggest that supporting a healthy gut microbiome through diet, probiotics, and lifestyle changes may help improve bowel regularity and alleviate constipation in some individuals.

Advanced Treatments for Chronic Constipation

For individuals with severe or chronic constipation that doesn’t respond to conventional treatments, advanced therapies may be considered:

Biofeedback Therapy

This technique helps retrain the muscles involved in bowel movements, particularly useful for those with pelvic floor dysfunction.

Prescription Medications

Newer medications targeting specific digestive processes may be prescribed for chronic constipation, such as:

• Linaclotide
• Plecanatide
• Prucalopride

Sacral Nerve Stimulation

This involves implanting a device that sends mild electrical pulses to the nerves controlling bowel function.

Surgery

In rare cases of severe, treatment-resistant constipation, surgical interventions may be considered to address structural issues or remove part of the colon.

What is the success rate of advanced treatments for chronic constipation? The effectiveness of advanced treatments can vary depending on the underlying cause of constipation and individual factors. Studies have shown improvements in bowel function and quality of life for many patients, but it’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a specialist.

In conclusion, while constipation is a common digestive issue, chronic or severe cases should not be ignored. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing appropriate lifestyle changes and treatments, most individuals can find relief from constipation and improve their overall digestive health. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider for persistent or concerning symptoms, as they can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific needs.

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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Difficult defecation syndrome – Tartu Ülikooli Kliinikum

Difficult defecation syndrome

You are suffering 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.
• When leaving the toilet, there is a feeling of incomplete emptying
  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 region.
• 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 rectal wall 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. Most of the patients are satisfied with the result – about 90% of patients have good or excellent results after surgery. Patients can return to their normal lives – bowel function returns to normal and emptying the rectum does not cause any more difficulties.

Compiled by: dr. Ave-Triin Tihamäe, dr. every person has experienced at least once in their 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 movement.

Treatment of constipation

People who have problems with bowel movements often ask themselves the question: what to do with constipation? 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.