Symptoms of constipation include not passing stool during a period of time, and straining to pass stool.
Constipation affects approximately 20 percent of adults in the United States.
Constipation is a digestive condition that happens when a person has difficulty passing stools, especially bowel movements.
Trying to pass stool frequently can cause painful cramps, bloating, and diarrhea.
Excessive straining on the stool may also contribute to constipation.
A person may experience some of the following symptoms of constipation:
difficulty passing stools
Variations in the colour or changes in consistency of stools
feelings of an overwhelming need to pass stools
excessive or excessive straining or pain in the abdomen
loss of appetite
abdominal pain
persistent urge to pass stools
Diagnosis
Diagnosing constipation can be difficult, as the symptoms can overlap with several other conditions.
People with constipation often describe their symptoms as overwhelming or painful.
To diagnose constipation, a doctor will look at:
the person's medical history and information about their digestive system
whether they have problems passing stools or have trouble emptying their bowels
the extent of the constipation and how often the person experiences these symptoms
a physical examination of the person and their abdominal area
People often assume that they will have certain diseases, but many can cause constipation without any identifiable cause.
An individual who is constipated should tell their doctor if they have any of the following signs of constipation, as well as any underlying conditions:
mild abdominal discomfort
feeling that the bowel is moving less than usual
inability to pass stool
muscle cramps
an abdominal mass
People with constipation should receive medical attention as soon as possible.
Diagnosis should be made by a doctor, who will likely use a stool test, such as colonoscopy or colonoscopy with flexible sigmoidoscopy.
A doctor will examine the large intestine and look for any abnormal tissue. They will also use imaging scans, such as X-rays or computed tomography, to investigate the digestive system.
Doctors may also request to see other family members and friends who also experience constipation, in order to rule out medical issues.
If no underlying medical condition is present, it may be a matter of age. If a person is older than 50, they may be more likely to experience constipation. However, it is a good idea to always discuss any physical symptoms with a doctor to find out more about the underlying cause.
Stool softeners and laxatives are the main treatment options for constipation. However, they may cause side effects, and people may end up constipated again if they stop taking them.
Takeaway
Chronic constipation is often difficult to treat. It is important to pay close attention to lifestyle changes and dietary advice, to make sure the constipation is not caused by a medical condition or not taken care of.
It is vital to get help for constipation from a doctor, who may refer the person to a specialist if the condition does not respond to treatment.
If a person has IBD, they may require the same lifestyle changes and dietary advice as the rest of their healthful living team. If they have IBS, they should visit a doctor, who will typically prescribe a combination of probiotic and fiber supplements.
Other people may benefit from lifestyle changes, such as getting more exercise and avoiding other food groups, such as alcohol, which can cause constipation.
It is vital that people do not take any unnecessary risks with their health, so if they are taking any supplements, they should check with their doctor first.
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