Feeling Constipated? Treat It Early or Have Regrets Later

Medical ConditionsNovember 22, 2019

Constipation is not just about spending a long time in the bathroom so that you can use your phone and stay isolated from the outside world for as long as you like with a genuine excuse. In fact, if you develop chronic constipation, it definitely is nothing to joke about.

Constipation is basically a condition under which you experience fewer bowel movements than normal, around less than 3 per week. Generally, symptoms of constipation can range from -passing a stool that is dry and firm, not feeling completely relieved after being done, or generally facing difficulty in passing it.

It’s Inevitable

It is a fact that constipation is a condition we all take lightly when we should be somewhat concerned. Having constipation is something you cannot outrun, just like aging, as it does not take much for your stomach to behave in this way. It is quite similar to the greying of the hair and the wrinkling of the skin as one ages, it catches up with you at some point in your life.

Constipation is basically a condition under which you experience fewer bowel movements than normal, around less than 3 per week

According to research, more than one out three people in their sixties experience constipation above and beyond that age. Some experts are also of the opinion that it is more common in women as compared to men, although more research is needed to accept this as a fact.

Why You Should Be Worried?

If constipation is left untreated, there’s a high chance of it leaving you with some painful and uncomfortable reminders, including the worsening of hemorrhoids which is a particularly painful process. All that strain caused by constipation ends up enlarging the hemorrhoid cushions, which causes further problems.

Other than this, bleeding is the most common symptom to occur due to constipation. Colon ulcers can also develop due to the stagnation of the stool as it just sits there for longer periods of time without any movement, causing the colon to swell.

In some cases, the stagnant stool may even block other wastes and toxins from releasing from your body, which can lead to extreme nausea and even vomiting which may indicate bowel obstruction. Pelvic floor dysfunction and rectal prolapse may also occur if constipation is not treated or lasts for 2 to 3 months.

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation can be caused due to multiple reasons but mainly it has to do with the diet you consume. A low-fiber diet can mess up your digestive system and cause constipation very easily.

This is why it is very important to include fiber-rich foods in your diet to allow your digestive system to work in an optimal fashion. Unlike other nutrients, fiber is basically insoluble and the body cannot digest it, thus it helps take along the waste inside the body in a smooth manner.

Constipation can be caused due to multiple reasons but mainly it has to do with the diet you consume.

Lack of liquid intake can also cause constipation in many people due to dehydration. Certain medications like sleeping pills, anti-depressants, and opioid pain relievers can also cause discomfort in stool passing. Sometimes constipation becomes a side effect of other diseases like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or thyroid problems.

Treating Constipation

The treatment of constipation definitely varies from person to person but typically it should be initiated with a laxative and also an evaluation of your current medication as well as diet. Since diet has a major role to play, we highly recommend that you include lots of fiber-rich foods into it.

Start by inculcating more fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, legumes, and nuts into your daily routine and you will definitely see a considerable difference in your digestive system. In addition, do not forget to drink lots and lots of water to ease the bowel movements and allow your stomach to churn and pass food easily.

As soon as you notice even the slightest irregularity in your digestion, visit your doctor at once and explain your symptoms. It might be a possibility that you are suffering from another, more serious disease and constipation is just a resultant side effect. The best way to approach treatment is to identify it as early on as possible, and then to take all the necessary measures to control it.