Constipation is a condition affecting the stool, making it difficult一 or impossible一 to pass without supplementation. One important thing to note with constipation is that it’s very important not to strain while you “go”; making constipation an issue that should be remedied as soon as possible.
But what causes constipation in the first place? There are five common causes of constipation: pregnancy, medications, lack of exercise or change in routine, a low-fiber diet, and more serious causes like blockages, rectal cancer, or colon cancer. Knowing the root cause of your constipation will help you avoid it in the future, and when to seek professional help.
WHEN SHOULD I BE CONCERNED ABOUT CONSTIPATION?
Can constipation last for days? The answer to this question tends to vary by individual and your diet plays a major role in your symptoms. For example, it’s not uncommon for a patient who consumes lots of dairy products but little fiber to experience constipation symptoms that last several days.
Generally speaking, if you haven’t had a bowel movement in longer than three days, it’s time to start forcing things to get moving.
HOW TO RELIEVE CONSTIPATION NATURALLY
Constipation is usually a result of too little fiber in the diet, combined with excess consumption of “binding” foods (dairy, red meat, white bread, white rice, etc.). A quick way to turn constipation around is to eat some fiber-rich snacks like raw vegetables, raw fruit, beans, nuts, and seeds. Combining these snacks with fresh fruit juice is sure to get your digestive system moving!
Another important thing to note is that, for some individuals, caffeine can exacerbate constipation symptoms一 others will suggest that caffeine keeps them regular. Since caffeine can be both a diuretic and a bowel stimulant, you need to be careful how you use this chemical when you are constipated. If you think you might be dehydrated, try drinking some water before you have that glass of tea or coffee.
HOW TO RELIEVE CONSTIPATION – OTC MEDICATIONS
One of the easiest ways to end your bout of constipation is to take a stool softener. Start with small doses and work your way up to a higher dosage if you must. The goal is just to get the bowels moving, not to give yourself diarrhea. Keep in mind that stool softeners also may artificially moisten your stool in order to get it to pass. Drink plenty of water to ensure that you don’t get dehydrated while taking stool softeners.
WHAT TO DO WHEN AT-HOME REMEDIES DON’T CUT IT
If you still haven’t passed a stool after four or more days, and have tried these 5 constipation remedies, it’s probably time to call your doctor. Usually, the above methods will help you, but occasionally there might actually be something physically blocking your intestines. If you notice any of the following symptoms before four days, call your doctor or go to an emergency room immediately:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Excess bloating
- You are unable to pass gas
- Lack of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
If you tend to have recurring issues with constipation, you should schedule an appointment with a colorectal specialist. While your constipation might be diet-related, it could also be something more serious. A colorectal specialist can help you rule out colorectal diseases and conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
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