Constipation

Constipation is characterized by hard, dry bowel movements or fewer than three weekly bowel movements. Constipation can also cause you to feel as though you can't completely empty your bowels. Constipation is a typical issue that typically only lasts a short while before going away on its own. But for some people, chronic constipation, which can last for days, weeks, or even months, is a real problem.
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation may have a variety of causes, including:

A diet lacking in fiber
Consuming insufficient fluids
A few illnesses, including thyroid issues, Parkinson's disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),
Some drugs, including blood pressure pills, antidepressants, and pain relievers
A sedentary way of life

How is Constipation Treated?

Constipation is typically treatable at home by making small dietary and lifestyle adjustments, like consuming more fiber and drinking more water. Your doctor might suggest a laxative or stool softener if these home remedies are unsuccessful. Rarely, bowel obstructions may require surgery to be removed.

Constipation is a frequent issue that can typically be resolved at home with minor lifestyle adjustments. Constipation could, however, be a symptom of a more serious condition if it continues to occur. Ask your doctor about treatment options if you consistently experience constipation.

Symptoms of Constipation

Constipation's primary symptom is irregular bowel movements. Other signs might include:

- Constipation that is difficult to empty

- Dry, hard stools

- Feeling as if you can't completely empty your bowels

- Cramps or pain in the abdomen

- Belly bloating or a feeling of fullness

To rule out any underlying medical conditions, it's crucial to see your doctor if you experience these symptoms. Additionally, more severe issues like fecal impaction and hemorrhoids can result from constipation.

Fecal impaction is a condition that makes it difficult or impossible to pass stool because a hard, dry mass of stool accumulates in the rectum. Fecal impaction can cause serious complications, like intestinal blockage or rupture, if it is not treated.

Swollen blood vessels in the anal or rectal area are hemorrhoids. By causing straining during bowel movements, hemorrhoids can become worse due to constipation.This may result in bleeding from the hemorrhoids.It's important to visit your doctor if you experience anus bleeding in order to rule out other causes, such as colorectal cancer.

When to See a Doctor

It's important to see your doctor if constipation persists for more than a few weeks. Constipation may indicate a medical condition that needs to be treated on a deeper level. Rarely, constipation can result in serious side effects like fecal impaction or hemorrhoids. See your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Incontinence bleeding

- Stomach ache

- Losing weight

- Trouble passing the stool

- Chronic constipation that lasts longer than a few weeks