Constipation happens when bowels become irregular resulting in stools getting hard to pass. Due to insufficient fiber intake and changes in diet and routine, constipation takes place. If you notice blood in the stool or if your constipation lasts for more than one or two weeks, you need to contact a doctor immediately.

Symptoms of constipation

• Hard, dry, lumpy stools.
• Stools that are difficult to pass.
• Feeling of a block in the rectum that prevents your bowel movements.
• Feel as if you cannot empty the stool.
• Needing assistance to empty the rectum.

Causes of constipation

Constipation occurs when the colon absorbs a lot of water from your stool. It dries the stool that makes it difficult to pass as its consistency changes. When food moves through your digestive tract, it leads to the absorption of nutrients. The food or waste that is partly digested shifts from the small intestine to your large intestine or colon.

The colon absorbs the water from waste that results in the formation of a solid matter known as stool. Food moves slowly in your digestive tract when you are suffering from constipation. This allows the colon to have time for the absorption of water from your waste. Hence, your stool turns hard and dry which makes it difficult for pushing it out.

Treatment of constipation

• Self-care, as in avoiding caffeine and drinking more water. Eating foods that are rich in fiber.
• Supplement or medications. Doctors may prescribe medicines like lactulose.
• Surgery in rare cases.

Prevention of constipation

• Eat whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
• Eliminate dehydration by avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
• Drinking water.
• Exercising regularly.
• Having probiotics like yogurt.
• Training muscles to have bowel movements at one time every day.

Conclusion

You can get in touch with Dr. Abhijit Gotkhinde if you have constipation. For more information, you can contact him in his Ultra Care Clinic at Pune.