Constipation
Constipation
Bowel movements differ between individuals, and it's common for some people to move their bowels only two or three times per week. If bowel movements occur more than three days apart, however, they are no longer normal and may require medical attention. Infrequent bowel movements can be a symptom of a greater digestive problem; they can also pose a health risk if left untreated.
When food is digested, it stays in the large intestine, where moisture is absorbed back into the body, leaving stool behind for excretion. If waste stays in the intestine too long, the stool hardens and becomes difficult to pass. This in turn results in straining and incomplete bowel evacuation.
In order to diagnose constipation, a doctor will use the following criteria:
-- The patient has a bowel movement two or fewer times per week
-- The patient has hard stools at least 25% of the time
-- The patient has incomplete evacuation at least 25% of the time
-- The patient strains to evacuate his bowels at least 25% of the time
Additional symptoms include abdominal pain or swelling, bloating and nausea or vomiting. If symptoms are present for more than three months or are particularly severe, it becomes necessary to treat the condition and identify its underlying cause. Occasional constipation is not usually a cause for concern, but it can still be highly uncomfortable for the person experiencing it.
Constipation can be triggered by many things, including:
-- Inadequate water consumption
-- Inadequate fiber intake
-- Stress
-- Hypothyroidism
-- Medications, especially opiates
-- IBS
-- Sedentary lifestyle
Constipation can sometimes be resolved through lifestyle management, including diet, exercise, and stress reduction. A laxative or stool softener can provide immediate relief, but laxative use should be monitored by a physician as overuse can aggravate constipation symptoms. If your constipation is accompanied by severe pain, blood in the stool or unexpected weight loss, be sure to consult with a physician right away as these may be signs of a more serious condition.