Constipation might be relieved with home remedies, such as changes to diet and activity level.
This article explores the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of constipation.
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What Are the Symptoms of Constipation?
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How often people pass stool is variable.
Constipation is common, especially in adults over the age of 60 years.
It may happen from time to time, or it may be a frequent occurrence.
But some symptoms are important to discuss with a healthcare provider (with or without constipation).
These can include:
What Causes Constipation?
Constipation has many possible causes.
But there are also causes that need more intensive treatment because of an underlying health condition.
Increasing fiber slowly over time and/or working with a healthcare provider may be helpful.
Certain Medications
Medications and supplements could also cause constipation.
This could be from a growth, such as apolypor tumor.
They might cause constipation on their own or contribute to constipation that involves other causes.
What’s more important than timing is the consistency of the stool.
In some cases, constipation in babies is brought on by diet.
Pressure on the intestines from the growing fetus is another cause.Taking iron supplements can also be a contributing factor.
What Medical Treatments Help With Constipation?
The best way to deal with constipation is to address the source.
Sometreatment optionscan be tried to relieve constipation.
OTC Medications
Drugstores have a variety of over-the-counter (OTC) remedies for constipation.
These drugs and supplements work in various ways.
Another option for constipation isacupuncture, which is placing needles into the body for healing.
Herbal supplementsmay have some weak evidence for use in constipation.
However, seeking advice from a healthcare provider before trying these supplements is important.
They include:
How Is Constipation Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider can helpdiagnose and treat constipation.
They will conduct a physical exam to check for signs of dehydration and abdominal changes.
They may do a rectal exam.
Blood, stool, and urine tests may be performed.
This test is fairly invasive.
Anenema(introducing liquid through the anus) may be given to clear out the rectum.
A catheter is then placed into the rectum to measure the pressure there.
The catheter will take readings at that time.
MRI uses radio waves and strong magnets to create the image.
Possible Complications of Constipation
Constipation can clear up on its own.
However, it is something to bring up with your healthcare provider at your next visit.
People who have underlying medical conditions that could lead to constipation should also discuss it with a healthcare provider.
These include:
How to Prevent Constipation
Constipation can’t always be prevented.
Steps to prevent constipation include:
Summary
Constipation is common and usually not serious.
However, it can cause symptoms that become problematic and affect your quality of life.
The issue may be resolved with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies.
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