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Constipation
Constipation is when you have trouble passing stools.
Abdominal bloating, straining during stools, continued feeling of fullness even after a
bowel movement are also signs of constipation. It can be very uncomfortable, but usually
does not signal disease or serious problem. The causes of constipation are:;
- Not drinking enough fluids.
- Not eating enough dietary fibers.
- Using laxatives over a long period of time.
- Taking certain medicines (pain killers, Anti depressants,
etc.).
- Not going to the toilet when you have the urge to open your
bowels.
- Medical problems such as Piles or an under active Thyroid
gland.
It is important to know that it is not necessary to open
your bowels daily. It depends on the individual’s pattern, which could be even once
in 3 to 4 days. A change in the regular pattern is significant.
The cure for constipation is mainly correction of bowel
habits and adding more fibers in the food. Medications and health conditions contributing
to constipation should be discussed with your doctor.
When to see a doctor?
1. Do you have :
- Fever
- Severe abdominal pain
- Abdominal bloating
- Weight loss
- Very thin pencil like stools or blood in stools?
2 Did you get constipated after taking any drugs?
3. Do you have persistent constipation despite using the
self-care procedures listed?
Self-care procedures
- Eat foods high in dietary fibre such as bran, whole meal
bread and cereals, fresh fruit and vegetables daily. They serve as natural stool
softeners, thanks in part to their fibre content. One type of fibre absorbs water like a
sponge, resulting in large, soft masses, which are easy to pass.
- Drink plenty of water and other liquids (eight glasses a
day) to give the fibre plenty of water to absorb.
- Get plenty of exercise, to help your bowels move things
along well.
- Don’t resist the urge to open your bowels and do not
put off a trip to the toilet.
- Drugs like antacids and iron supplements are constipating
and use them only if they are unavoidable (discuss with your doctor).
- If necessary, for occasional constipation, you may need a
over-the-counter stool softener or mild laxative (consult your doctor).
- Do not use stimulant laxatives as they make your bowels
lazy.
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