Constipation

Constipation is a condition characterized by infrequent and difficult bowel movements, with stools often becoming dry, lumpy, or hard. People experiencing constipation may feel the urge to defecate, but passing stool can be painful, incomplete, or challenging. Typically, having fewer than three bowel movements per week is considered a sign of constipation.

For some individuals, constipation can significantly impact their daily activities, leading to discomfort and straining during bowel movements. The regularity of bowel movements varies widely from person to person, with some individuals having several daily movements and others experiencing them only a few times a week.

The key symptoms of constipation, known as Irritable Bowel Outlet Syndrome (IBOST), include difficulty defecating, a feeling of pressure during bowel movements, reduced frequency of stool passing, and the presence of bulky, dry, or hard stools. Abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, nausea, and loss of appetite may also accompany constipation.

The underlying cause of constipation is often related to a slow movement of stool through the digestive tract or impaired expulsion from the intestines, leading to the drying out of stool and the development of constipation. Various factors contribute to the development of constipation, including inadequate fiber intake, insufficient fluid consumption, prolonged periods of sitting or lying down, sedentary lifestyle, changes in diet or daily routines, medication side effects, stress, hormonal changes during pregnancy, functional disorders of the gastrointestinal system (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome), celiac disease, spinal cord or brain lesions, and hypothyroidism.

Certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of experiencing constipation, such as aging, being female, dehydration, following a low-fiber diet, lack of physical activity, the use of certain medications (e.g., sedatives, antidepressants, and blood pressure-lowering drugs), depression, and pregnancy.

Complications of severe constipation can include straining during defecation leading to swollen veins around the anus (hemorrhoids), anal fissures (small tears around the anus), and rectal bleeding. Chronic constipation can also lead to the accumulation of hardened stool in the intestine, rectal prolapse, and feces being expelled outside the body.

To diagnose constipation, healthcare professionals may use various methods and tests, such as blood tests to check hormone levels, tests to evaluate the muscles of the anus, assessments of how excretable substances are removed from the colon, colonoscopy to detect colon obstruction, and flexible sigmoidoscopy. Treatment options for constipation may include lifestyle changes, increased fluid intake, regular physical activity, avoiding delaying defecation, and incorporating fiber-rich foods into the diet. Laxatives, stool softeners, and pelvic floor physiotherapy with biofeedback or surgery may also be recommended if lifestyle changes are ineffective.

Preventing constipation involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as staying adequately hydrated, engaging in regular physical activity, not delaying defecation, and consuming fiber-rich foods gradually. Including fiber-rich vegetables, fruits, and whole-grain foods in the diet can help promote regular bowel movements.

For individuals experiencing constipation, consuming fish, lean meats, snacks like raisin cookies, figs, and popcorn, and adding 1 to 2 teaspoons of bran husks, ground flaxseeds, or wheat bran to foods can be beneficial. Avoiding processed foods, such as white bread, pastries, doughnuts, sausages, hamburgers, chips, and french fries, is also recommended to manage constipation effectively.

In conclusion, constipation is a common condition characterized by infrequent and difficult bowel movements. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve the quality of life for those experiencing constipation. Incorporating a balanced diet, staying active, and maintaining good hydration are fundamental in preventing and managing this condition effectively. If constipation symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional is vital to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.