Antidepressants are a group of medicines that can cause constipation. They affect the nervous system, which can slow down the bowels.

Drugs – such as morphine, codeine and oxycodone may cause constipation. They affect the nervous system, which can slow down the bowels.

antacids are medicines used to treat heartburn and other stomach disorders. They can cause constipation as they slow down bowel movements.

Iron is an essential part of our body, but too much iron in the body can cause constipation. Iron preparations can exacerbate this effect.

antiallergics such as diphenhydramine may cause constipation. They affect the nervous system, which slows down the bowels.

Diuretics are another group of medicines that can cause constipation. They can reduce the amount of fluid in the intestines, which tests its work.

Before starting any medication, including over-the-counter products, you should consult your doctor about possible side effects and their effect on stool.

Stress and nervous tension as a cause of constipation

Stress and nervous tension can cause constipation because they affect the physiological processes in the body. For example, under stress, there may be a decrease in intestinal activity, which leads to a slowdown in the transit of food masses. This, in turn, can cause constipation.

How to deal with stress and nervous tension?

• Regular exercise can help manage stress by improving mood and increasing endorphins.
• The practice of meditation helps to reduce stress and nervous tension, promoting relaxation and improving mental state.
• Seeing a psychotherapist can also be an effective way to deal with stress and nervous tension, as it allows you to study the causes of these conditions and learn how to effectively overcome them.

It is important to remember that strong stress and nervous tension can cause not only constipation, but also many other diseases. Therefore, it is important to monitor your mental state and avoid overwork.

Fluid imbalance due to constipation

One of the most common causes of constipation is an imbalance in the body’s water balance. This reduces the amount of fluid consumed, which leads to dry feces and difficulty passing through the intestines.

Another reason is excessive consumption of salts and proteins, which leads to dehydration and makes defecation difficult.

How to deal with it? Increase your water intake to 2-2.5 liters per day, prefer fresh fruits and vegetables rich in fiber, and reduce your salt and protein intake. It is also important to avoid excessive consumption of coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks, which can contribute to dehydration.

• Drink more fluids
• Prefer fresh fruits and vegetables
• Reduce salt and protein intake
• Avoid coffee, alcohol and carbonated drinks

Intestinal and intestinal disorders

Intestinal infections

Intestinal infections are diseases caused by bacteria or viruses that enter the body through food or water. The main symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and fever. For prevention, it is necessary to monitor the cleanliness of hands and vegetables, fruits.

Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum

Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum are diseases associated with damage to the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum. The main symptoms are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, feeling of heaviness after eating. It is necessary to follow a diet, exclude spicy, fatty, acidic foods.

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. The main symptoms are abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, fever. Recommended treatment prescribed by a doctor, diet, active lifestyle.

Common diseases of the intestines and gastrointestinal tract Name of the disease Main symptoms Prevention and treatment

A balanced diet, infection prevention, active lifestyle are important components of intestinal and gastrointestinal health.

Hormonal changes and their role in causing constipation

What are hormonal changes?

Hormonal changes are a stress for the body that affects the functioning of all systems and organs, including the digestive system. During menstruation, pregnancy or menopause, the level of hormones in a woman’s body changes. Also, hormonal changes can be caused by medications and other factors.

How do hormonal changes affect digestion?

Hormones affect the contractility of the intestines, which can lead to a slowdown in the processes of peristalsis, and eventually to constipation. Hormones can also affect fluid levels in the intestines, which also contributes to constipation.

How to deal with constipation caused by hormonal changes?

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a healthy diet rich in fiber and fluid.
• Eat small meals and often throughout the day to stimulate intestinal motility.
• Try to avoid stressful situations and relax.
• Do not overuse medications that can cause constipation unnecessarily.

How to avoid constipation?

1. Drink enough water

Lack of fluid is one of the main causes of constipation. In order for food waste to move easily through the intestines, you need to drink enough water. It is recommended to drink at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day.

2. Increase your fiber intake

Fiber facilitates the movement of food waste through the intestines, which helps to avoid constipation. To get enough fiber, include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads and bran in your diet.

3. Exercise

Exercise is another way to prevent constipation. Regular exercise, such as running, walking or yoga, improves blood circulation and strengthens the action of the intestines.

4. Avoid foods that cause constipation

There are certain foods that cause constipation, such as white bread, bananas, mashed potatoes and white rice porridge. Avoid foods that make you suffer from constipation.

5. Eat probiotics

Probiotics help promote gut health, improve digestion, and expedite waste elimination from the body. Try adding yogurt, kefir, raw vegetables, and fermented foods to your diet.

6. Don’t put off going to the toilet

Postponing going to the toilet can lead to retention of feces in the intestines and, as a result, to constipation. Make sure you follow your normal daily routine and be sure to go to the bathroom when you need to.

7. Reduce stress

Stress can contribute to constipation. Try to avoid stressful situations and take steps to reduce your stress levels, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.

What if you already have constipation?

As soon as you notice that you have constipation, you need to take measures to reduce its symptoms. Avoid foods that can contribute to constipation, such as junk food, white bread, alcohol, and fatty foods.

A good solution is to take natural laxatives to help soften the stool and make it easier to pass. One such natural laxative is drinking water laced with lemon, which acts as a gentle bowel stimulant.

Finally, moderate physical activity can also increase intestinal motility. Various exercises and physical activity help not only to cope with constipation, but also improve the functioning of the whole organism.

• Avoid constipating foods.
• Eat regularly and in small portions.
• Drink enough water.
• Use natural laxatives such as lemon water.
• Engage in moderate physical activity.

To get rid of constipation, you need to take measures that include menu, food intake, natural laxatives and physical activity. Do not forget that in case of continuing problems, you should consult a doctor.

Healthy products for constipation

1. Vegetables and fruits

Vegetables and fruits are a source of fiber, which helps speed up intestinal motility and improve digestion. Green vegetables like spinach and broccoli are especially helpful, as are berries like blackberries and strawberries.

2. Liquids

Drinking plenty of fluids is desirable for good digestion and gentle bowel movements. Water is one of the best options, and natural juices, teas, and herbal drinks are also helpful.

3. Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds are rich in soluble and insoluble fibers, which help to eliminate intestinal waste and increase stool volume. It is best to use pine nuts, almonds and flaxseed.

4. Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids improve gut health and help fight inflammation. They are found in fish like salmon and herring, as well as in some vegetable oils, such as linseed and sesame oils.

• Conclusion: For those who suffer from constipation, it is important to eat right, avoid fatty, spicy, sweet and starchy foods, and add foods rich in fibers and fluids to your diet. It is also important to control the amount of food consumed and not to forget about physical activity.

Unhealthy foods that make constipation worse

Constipation can happen for a variety of reasons, and nutrition is one of the most important aspects in dealing with this problem. Some foods contribute to normal digestion, while others can cause or exacerbate constipation.

A list of foods that can worsen the digestive tract and cause constipation:

• White rice, white bread, pasta made from ordinary flour and other foods high in fast-digesting carbohydrates that inhibit the digestive tract.
• Dairy products that control the gastrointestinal tract can cause constipation and pain when consumed in excess.
• Sugar, sugary snacks, and other foods high in sugar can also slow down the digestive tract and cause constipation.
• Vegetarian diet, especially rich in vegetable proteins and dietary fiber.

To combat constipation, it is recommended to regularly eat fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, cereals), natural juices, greens, enzyme products and plenty of water.

Exercises to help fight constipation

Constipation can occur for many reasons, both nutritional and medical. But the most common cause is lack of physical activity. Regular exercise can help fight constipation and restore normal bowel movement.

A list of exercises that you can include in your daily physical activity program:

• Walking: The simplest and most accessible form of activity that can help in overcoming intestinal problems. Regular walking in the fresh air can be very effective in combating constipation. It is best to walk at least 30 minutes every day.
• Yoga: By practicing yoga, you can increase the flexibility of the body, as well as improve the condition of the digestive system. Some postures such as Badha Konasana (Butterfly) and Pawan Muktasana (Wind Pose) can have a calming effect on the intestines.
• Twisting: Twisting exercises can help improve digestion, which should not be neglected when dealing with constipation. Twisting can also strengthen the abdominal and intestinal muscles.
• Squats: Squats can help stimulate the body and increase metabolism. This, in turn, may contribute to more efficient food processing and normal bowel function.

While exercise can help fight constipation, it’s important to remember that regular intake of water, as well as fiber-rich foods, is also key to maintaining gut health and preventing constipation. Exercise can be one of the tools in dealing with constipation, but it shouldn’t be used as the only solution.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the causes of constipation?

There can be many reasons for constipation: lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet, stress, taking certain medications, bowel diseases and others. It is important to consult a doctor to identify and eliminate the cause.

What foods help relieve constipation?

For constipation, it is recommended to increase the intake of vegetables, fruits, rye bread, cereals, green vegetables and other foods rich in fiber. It is also important to drink enough fluids and pay attention to the diet.

Can constipation lead to other diseases?

Yes, with prolonged constipation, various complications are possible, such as hemorrhoids, intestinal fissures and ulcers, diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease and others. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor in a timely manner and not ignore the problem.

Can physical activity help with constipation?

Yes, regular exercise, especially ab exercises and abdominal stretching exercises, can quickly improve bowel movements and relieve constipation.

What medicines help with constipation?

Various groups of drugs are used to treat constipation, such as laxatives, sea buckthorn oil, probiotics, drugs that improve intestinal motility and others. But before using any medication, you must always consult with your doctor.

What are the signs that constipation has become chronic?

Chronic constipation may be accompanied by the following symptoms: pain and discomfort in the abdomen, belching, gas formation, blood in the stool, loss of appetite, heartburn, sleep disturbance and others. If these symptoms do not go away for a long time, then you should consult a doctor and undergo an examination.

causes, symptoms and treatments for the condition

Contents

• 1 Causes, symptoms and treatment of constipation: features of the condition
  • 1.1 What is constipation?
  • 1.2 Causes of constipation
  • 1.3 Symptoms of constipation
  • 1.4 How to diagnose constipation
  • 1.5 Preventing constipation
    • 1.5.1 Proper nutrition
    • 1. 5.2 Regular exercise
    • 1.5.3 Avoid bad habits
    • 1.5.4 Regular health checks
  • 1. 6 Diet for constipation
    • 1.6.1 Key recommendations
    • 1.6.2 Good foods
    • 1.6.3 Unwanted foods 90 010
  • 1.7 Medicines for constipation
  • 1.8 Exercise for constipation
  • 1.9 Traditional treatments for constipation
  • 1.10 When should you see a doctor for constipation?
  • 1.11 Related videos:
  • 1.12 Q&A:
    • • 1.12.0.1 What is constipation and how does it occur?
      • 1.12.0.2 What are the symptoms of constipation?
      • 1.12.0.3 How can constipation be prevented?
      • 1.12.0.4 What role does diet play in the treatment of constipation?
      • 1.12.0.5 What medicines can be taken to treat constipation?
      • 1.12.0.6 When should I see a doctor if I have constipation?

Find out why constipation occurs, what symptoms accompany this pathological condition, and how to treat them. Read the article on our website and get useful information for the health of your body.

Constipation is one of the common problems faced by people of all ages and genders. This is a pathological condition characterized by difficulty or retention of stool for more than 48 hours. In some cases, the stool may be empty, hard, and large. This condition can become quite problematic and cause discomfort, soreness and even depression in some people.

Constipation can be caused by various reasons. Some of these include lack of physical activity, lack of fluid in the body, changes in regular diet, stress, and even certain medications. However, sometimes constipation can be associated with serious conditions such as colon cancer or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The symptoms of constipation can vary from person to person. However, the most common symptoms are difficult or infrequent bowel movements, a feeling of incomplete bowel movement, abdominal pain, and malaise.

It must be remembered that constipation is an issue in dire need of attention, and if you suffer from the corresponding symptoms, it is best to see a specialist for diagnosis and treatment of this problem.

What is constipation?

Constipation is a pathological condition when there is a slowdown in intestinal motility, which leads to the fact that the feces become denser and difficult to excrete from the body.

The frequency of bowel movements varies from person to person, and may be twice a day or twice a week. However, if emptying occurs less frequently, and the process itself becomes difficult, they speak of a violation – constipation.

Constipation can occur for many reasons, from malnutrition to the presence of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The main symptom of constipation is infrequent (most often less than once every two days) and difficult bowel movements.

Causes of constipation

Constipation can be caused by various factors. One of the main reasons is malnutrition, when an insufficient amount of fiber does not contribute to normal intestinal motility. Inadequate fluid intake can also lead to constipation. It is important to remember that the consumption of large amounts of fatty and fried foods also affects the functioning of the intestines.

Constipation can also be caused by certain medications, such as antidepressants, magnesium and calcium sulfates, antihistamines, and others. Acute psycho-emotional overload and stress can also affect bowel function and lead to constipation.

Finally, constipation can also be caused by certain diseases, such as diabetes, thyroid disease, colitis, and others. In such cases, a passenger approach to treatment and selection of prescriptions is necessary.

Symptoms of constipation

Constipation is a disorder of the gastrointestinal tract characterized by difficult and infrequent passage of feces through the intestines. The main symptom of constipation is the absence of stool for more than 48 hours. But besides this, patients may have other signs of this pathology.

• Abdominal pain – often occurs with constipation, especially when large amounts of stool accumulate in the intestines and the large intestine becomes distended.
• Abdominal distention – the intestines may become dilated due to the accumulation of feces, resulting in an unnatural bulge on the abdomen.
• Heartburn and nausea – When constipated, stomach contents can be pushed back up the esophagus, causing heartburn and nausea.
• General weakness – occurs due to the constant feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, the inability to carry out the normal movement of feces and the lack of vitamins and nutrients that the body does not have time to absorb.

If you have one or more of these symptoms, see your doctor to find out the cause and prescribe the necessary treatment.

How to Diagnose Constipation

Constipation is a common condition in people of all ages and genders. However, in order to properly treat any pathological condition, it is necessary to properly diagnose it. There are several methods for diagnosing constipation:

1. Interview. The doctor should ask the patient questions about the type of bowel movement and other symptoms such as abdominal pain and stool leakage.
2. Physical examination. The doctor may examine the abdomen and proctal opening to assess the condition of the anal canal and rectum.
3. Intestinal transfusion. This is a procedure in which aqueous solutions or oil are injected into the intestines to more accurately determine the location of the obstruction in the intestines.
4. Intestinal examination. Tests may include colonoscopy, rectosigmoidoscopy, and other tests that can look at the bowel inside.

The results of the diagnosis will help determine the causes of constipation and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Prevention of constipation

Proper nutrition

One of the main factors affecting bowel function is nutrition. To prevent constipation, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, including those rich in fiber and dietary fiber. You should also include cereals and liquids in the diet.

Regular exercise

Exercise helps speed up and improve bowel movements. Constant training and exercise also contribute to a positive effect on the functioning of the large and small intestines. Particularly useful among physical exercises are yoga and swimming.

Quitting bad habits

Smoking, alcohol, and certain medications can affect intestinal motility, which can cause constipation. Therefore, to prevent constipation, it is necessary to abandon bad habits and limit the use of drugs that can affect the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

Regular health check-ups

To prevent constipation, it is necessary to have regular check-ups with a doctor and follow his recommendations for maintaining the health of the body as a whole. Early detection and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders can prevent or reduce the risk of constipation.

Constipation Diet

Key Recommendations

A constipation diet should be high in fiber, contain adequate fluids, and avoid foods that may cause constipation. Key Recommendations:

• Eat vegetables and fruits rich in fiber
• Drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day
• Increase protein intake
• Limit intake of foods containing animal fats and simple carbohydrates

Also desirable eat food in small portions, but often, so that the food lump does not linger in the stomach and intestines.

Healthy foods

Constipation diet should include foods rich in vegetable fibers, such as:

• Vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, squash, cucumbers, tomatoes and other vegetables
• Fruits: apples, pears, oranges, mangoes, bananas, cherries, etc. and other grains
• Legumes: beans, peas, chickpeas, lentils and other legumes
• Nuts: almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, walnuts and other types

Lean fish, meat and dairy products are also beneficial.

Undesirable foods

If constipated, it is necessary to limit the consumption of foods that can provoke constipation, such as:

• Fatty foods: margarine, mayonnaise, butter, lard and others
• Simple carbohydrates: sweets, pies, white bread and others white flour products
• Canned and processed foods
• Beans, radishes, cabbages and other foods that can cause bloating

It is also necessary to limit the consumption of coffee, alcohol and other drinks that can dry out the body and cause constipation.

Medicines for constipation

Constipation is a common medical condition that is often caused by poor lifestyle habits or undesirable factors. One way to treat constipation is to take medication.

The main goals of drug therapy are to improve and accelerate intestinal motility, increase stool volume and soften its consistency. Depending on the type of constipation (atonic, spastic) and its causes, different types of drugs are used.

• Osmotic solvents. These preparations facilitate the process of defecation, improve the quality and consistency of the stool. They do not cause irritation of the intestinal mucosa, which makes them safe to use. These include lactulose, glycerin suppositories.
• Decoupling preparations. They increase the volume of the stool, facilitate its passage, improve peristalsis and protect against fluid deficiency in the body. These include magnesium sulfate, mannitol, sodium picosulfate.
• Preparations that improve intestinal motility. These drugs increase the strength and frequency of bowel contractions and hasten the passage of stool. One such drug is metoclopramide, which acts on nerve receptors.
• Probiotics. They increase the amount of beneficial microflora in the intestines, increase immunity, soften hard stools and improve the general condition of the body.

Before eliminating constipation with medicines, it is necessary to consult a doctor and undergo the necessary set of examinations. And only after that start the treatment of constipation.

Exercise for constipation

Exercise can be an effective treatment for constipation and general health. They help to activate the intestines and speed up the process of digestion of food.

Leg Raises

One of the easiest exercises to combat constipation is the supine leg raise. The legs should be raised up, pressed and lowered, repeating the exercise 10-15 times.

Ship Pose

This exercise resembles the shape of a ship, with the body and legs raised in the air and the arms extended forward. The “ship” pose strengthens the abdominal muscles, which also has a positive effect on the process of digestion.

Pear Pose

Pear Pose is an exercise in which the legs are extended to the sides and the body is straight. You can also do this pose while sitting on a mat. Repeat the pose 8-10 times.

All of the above exercises help improve digestion and promote regular bowel movements without harming your health. In addition, it is important to remember about proper diet and water intake to prevent constipation.

Traditional treatments for constipation

Constipation is a disorder of the gastrointestinal tract in which a person has difficulty emptying their bowels. To avoid this problem, many people resort to traditional methods of treatment. One such method is to eat foods rich in plant fibers, such as fruits, vegetables, and cereals. The fibers help soften the stool and help it pass through the intestines.

Another traditional treatment for constipation is abdominal massage. The method consists in performing special movements designed to stimulate the bowels. Massage can be performed independently or contact a massage therapist or a specialist.

• Recommended products for consumption: fruits (apples, apricots, peaches), vegetables (beets, carrots, marrows), cereals (wheat, rye, oats).
• Herbal decoctions and infusions: hay infusion, dandelion root decoction, yarrow infusion.
• Abdominal massage: kneading the abdomen in a clockwise direction, stroking and circular movements through the intestines.

When should I see a doctor for constipation?

Constipation is a common medical condition that can affect anyone. In milder cases, it can be treated on its own, but there are situations when you definitely need to see a doctor.

• If constipation goes along with abdominal pain, then this may indicate a more serious problem in the body;
• Constipation is not relieved for several days and the gastrointestinal tract is sluggish. In this case, it is important to immediately consult a doctor;
• There is severe bleeding from the anus;
• The patient has symptoms of intoxication such as vomiting or diarrhea, fever, and pale skin;
• In especially severe cases, the pain becomes unbearable and the patient needs emergency medical care.

It is important to understand that slowing down the process of removing feces from the body can lead to serious consequences. The sooner you see a doctor, the sooner treatment will begin and the sooner everything will return to normal.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is constipation and how does it occur?

Constipation is the absence or difficulty of stool. The problem can arise due to many reasons, including poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, certain medications, and medical conditions.

What are the symptoms of constipation?

Symptoms of constipation may include a feeling of incomplete bowel movement, heaviness and discomfort in the abdomen, hot flashes and sweating, and infrequent or difficult bowel movements.

How can constipation be prevented?

You can prevent constipation by following your doctor’s recommendations for proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and lifestyle changes.