We've all experienced constipation, yet it continues to be a hush-hush topic often swept under the rug. Constipation is one of the most common digestive issues in the United States. In general, 16 out of 100 adults experience constipation; the rate increases for older demographics as 33 out of 100 individuals over 60 suffer constipation. Many people are still in the dark regarding constipation, its causes, and how to treat it. Let's fix that.
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Private Healthcare Navigation and Patient Advocacy when YOU need it mostDon't fret—with up to 33% of adults experiencing constipation, it is rather common and you are not alone!
What is constipation?
Constipation means bowel movements are difficult to pass or occur less frequently. The standard amount of time between bowel movements varies widely from individual to individual. Some people go as often as three times a day. Others only have them a couple of days per week. There is no such thing as the perfect bowel movement schedule; however, going more than three or four days without one is usually too long. After three days, the stool becomes increasingly difficult to pass as time goes on.
Be sure to monitor your bowel movements—going three days or more without one is not ideal.
What causes constipation?
There are several causes of constipation. Some of the more common ones include:
Lack of water intake or fiber
Overconsumption of dairy products
Sedentary lifestyle
Stress
Sometimes, individuals will experience chronic constipation. In such instances, not only does constipation occur more often, but the degree of constipation may also intensify. Some causes may include:
Medication (narcotics, antidepressants, and iron pills)
Antacid medicines that contain calcium or aluminum
Eating disorders
Irritable bowel syndrome
Nerve or muscle dysfunction in the digestive system
Colorectal cancer
If you suffer from chronic constipation, speak to your doctor.
Be aware. Be seen. Be screened if warranted.
What are the symptoms of constipation?
Constipation symptoms include but are not limited to:
Infrequent bowel movements
Difficulty passing stool
Excessive straining when passing stool
Lumpy or hard stools
Feeling as though you are unable to eliminate your bowels
Bloating
Lower back pain
You may be constipated if you have difficulty going to the bathroom and experiencing the above.
⛔️ Remember—any change in bowel habits, new-onset constipation 🚽, rectal bleeding 🩸, anemia, weight loss—or anything concerning—speak to your doctor 🥼 directly.
How is constipation treated?
Luckily, mild cases of constipation can often be treated from home. Here are some DIY remedies to help alleviate your constipation:
Consume more water than usual to aid in hydration
Drink plenty of warm liquids, especially in the mornings
Incorporate more fruits & veggies into your diet (in particular: leafy greens, legumes, lentils, prunes, pears, and apples) to increase your fiber intake
Try to exercise daily to stimulate your intestines
Unless advised otherwise, take over-the-counter laxatives (always be sure to follow the directions thoroughly)
More complex cases of constipation may require professional medical intervention. Discuss your symptoms with your primary care physician to determine the best action.
Remember: prevention is key 🔑. Paying attention to your body, maintaining a well-balanced diet 🍽 and an active lifestyle are significant factors in reducing your risk of developing constipation.
Check out this short informational video, "What causes constipation?"
Personally
I eat a high-fiber, mostly plant-based 🌱 diet, no red meat, drink 4 liters of water a day, exercise, and am focused on keeping nutrition simple. I am sharing what works for me and what I routinely recommend to my patients.
"Balance. Portion control. Keep nutrition simple. Eat Smart. Eat Healthy. 🌱 🌾 🌿"
Gut Health ➕ Patient Advocacy with Navigation ➕ Life Balance
If you were looking for information about Private Healthcare Navigation and Patient Advocacy from Executive Health NavigationClick here for Executive Health Navigation✴ Connect with Dr. Dooreck on LinkedIn, where he focuses his sharing on Health, Diet, Nutrition, Exercise, Lifestyle, and Balance.
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