Experiencing prolonged periods of time in the bathroom with the inability to have a bowel movement, along with the onset of severe abdominal pain during the process, are clear indicators of constipation. This common condition can affect individuals of all ages and genders, resulting in a range of detrimental consequences in one's life, including time wastage, health concerns, and, when left unaddressed, the potential for additional complications like hemorrhoids, intestinal obstructions, and other related ailments. Today, we will delve deeper into understanding constipation.
What is Constipation?
Constipation is a condition characterized by infrequent bowel movements, often extending for multiple days or leading to fewer than three bowel movements per week. It occurs when the large intestine functions sluggishly or compresses, making it challenging to eliminate waste from the digestive tract. This accumulation of stool in the large intestine is what ultimately leads to constipation.
How do I know if I have constipation?
Recognizing constipation can involve identifying the following telltale signs:
· Struggling or straining during bowel movements.
· Passing dry, hard stool that is difficult to expel.
· Having fewer than three bowel movements per week.
· Experiencing abdominal discomfort, including bloating and a persistent sense of fullness.
· Observing blood in the stool, often resulting from the strain caused by hard stool.
· Sensing an incomplete evacuation of the bowels even after a bowel movement.
What are the common causes of constipation?
Several factors contribute to the onset of constipation, including:
· Inadequate water intake and a low-fiber diet, typically associated with foods like meat, dairy, and cheese.
· A lack of physical activity or reduced mobility.
· Poor bowel habits, such as holding off on bowel movements when discomfort arises or experiencing irregularity in bowel movements.
· Pregnancy, where the growing uterus exerts pressure on the large intestine, leading to constipation.
· The usage of specific medications, which may include antacids containing calcium or aluminum, pain relievers, diuretics, or drugs for conditions like Parkinson's disease and allergies.
Complications of Constipation
It's crucial not to underestimate constipation, as it can result in various complications, such as:
· Hemorrhoids: Enlarged blood vessels around the rectum or anus.
· Intestinal obstruction: Occurs when an obstacle hinders the proper functioning of the intestines.
· Colitis: Inflammation of the large intestine due to infections or other factors.
· Anal fissures: Small tears or open sores around the anus.
· Colorectal cancer: Abnormal cell growth in the large intestine that can develop into tumors or polyps and potentially lead to cancer.
Changing Eating Habits and Lifestyle to Prevent Constipation
Changing your lifestyle and dietary habits is an effective way to prevent and manage constipation in the long term. Consider these recommendations:
· Consume a minimum of 2 liters of water daily to ward off dehydration and limit excessive alcohol, caffeine, or carbonated beverage consumption, which can lead to dehydration.
· Incorporate a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables, aiming for at least 400 grams per day.
· Introduce probiotics into your diet, which are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut balance and prevent various digestive issues.
· Engage in regular physical activity to stimulate your digestive system, allocating at least 30 minutes for exercise each day.
· Avoid delaying bowel movements and respond promptly to the urge.
· Modify your posture when sitting on the toilet to facilitate easier bowel movements, such as sitting at a 35-degree angle or using a small footstool to elevate your knees above your hips.
If you experience persistent or severe constipation or have not had a bowel movement for more than three days, you may need to consider over-the-counter laxatives like Fybogel or Mucilin SF to soften stool and facilitate easier bowel movements. However, keep in mind that regular laxative use is not a long-term solution and can disrupt natural bowel function. Therefore, the most effective approach to prevent constipation is to implement lifestyle and dietary changes, which can also lead to overall improvements in health.
Constipation is a condition that should not be disregarded, as it can result in a variety of complications that affect your health and daily life. It is essential to address constipation promptly and make necessary lifestyle and dietary adjustments. For Krungthai-AXA life insurance customers interested in health-related topics, you can explore additional health advisories at (https://www.krungthai-axa.co.th/th/health-advisories
References:
· Pobpad
· Sriphat Medical Centre
https://bit.ly/3PxKREO
· Bumrunggrad Hospital
· Betterhealth
· Healthline
· Cleveland Clinic
· King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital
· WebMD
