We all know how uncomfortable it is to be constipated for a day or two. But imagine what happens if this condition continues for months? That's what we call "Chronic Constipation". This is really annoying and can interfere with daily activities. So today, let's talk about what can be done about this persistent constipation.
Before taking medication, should we try these things first?
When you go to see a doctor, he will not immediately prescribe medication but will first tell you to make some changes in your daily habits. Because often these simple changes can solve this problem.
- Eat more fiber -rich foods: Simply put, add more vegetables , fruits , legumes, and whole grains to your diet. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens, fruits like papaya, bananas, and mangoes, oats, and beans are all good options. It is also important to limit foods that are low in fiber, such as dairy and meat.
- Drink plenty of water: Water is essential for our digestive system to function properly. For easy bowel movements, the body needs to be well-hydrated. Make it a habit to drink at least 2-3 liters of water a day.
- Exercise: When you exercise, your bowel muscles become active, which helps your stool move through your intestines more easily. If your doctor allows it, try doing simple exercises like walking a few days a week.
- Don't put off going to the bathroom: Some people, whether at work or out and about, hold back on going to the bathroom, either out of boredom or for some other reason. This is a very bad habit. Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need. Also, don't rush, take your time and do it.
Often, these changes alone can be a good solution to your problem. But if not, you may need further treatment. The type of treatment will depend on the cause of your infertility.
What is Pelvic Muscle Training?
Sometimes constipation is caused by the pelvic muscles that help you pass stool. Strictly speaking, these muscles should relax when you have a bowel movement. But for some people, these muscles tighten. This can be retrained with the help of a physical therapist. This training is called "biofeedback." Here, the physical therapist inserts a small tube called a catheter into your rectum. It measures the tightness of your muscles. As you exercise, a machine shows you whether your muscles are tight or loose. This can help you learn how to relax your muscles when you have a bowel movement.
Solutions from medicines
If lifestyle changes don't help, your doctor may prescribe medication. There are several types of medication. If your constipation is caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or chronic idiopathic constipation, your doctor may prescribe a medication like lubiprostone (Amitiza). This works by making your intestines produce more fluid. Then:
- Stomach pain decreases.
- The dead become soft.
- Straining during bowel movements decreases
- The number of times you go to the bathroom increases.
Medications such as `linaclotide (Linzess)` and `plecanatide (Trulance)` are also used in such cases. In addition, depending on the cause, the doctor may suggest other medications. For example:
- `Misoprostol (Cytotec)`: This stimulates the bowels. This medicine is not suitable for pregnant women.
- `Colchicine/probenecid (Col-Probenecid): Increases the frequency of bowel movements. This is not recommended for people with kidney disease.
- `OnabotulinumtoxinA ( Botox )`: This softens the skin and reduces pain.
Types of Laxatives
You can also try laxatives (
laxatives ). But these should only be used
for a short period of time and only under the advice of a doctor. Different types of laxatives work in different ways. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Laxative type | How it works and examples |
|---|
| Fiber Supplements | These add to the stool and increase its bulk, making it easier to pass. For example: Psyllium (Metamucil), Methylcellulose (Citrucel), Calcium polycarbophil (FiberCon). |
| Stool Softeners | They draw water from the intestines and add it to the stool to soften it. This will prevent the stool from becoming hard like a stone. For example: Docusate sodium (Colace), Docusate calcium (Surfak). |
| Lubricants | These form a protective layer around the pus, preventing it from losing its fluidity and helping it to drain easily. Mineral oil is one such product. |
| Osmotics | These help retain water in the stool. This keeps the stool soft. However, people with heart disease or kidney disease should be very careful when using these. For example: Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia), Lactulose (Kristalose), Polyethylene glycol (Miralax). |
| Stimulants | These help to contract the intestines and push stool forward. Doctors usually recommend these when other treatments have failed. For example: Bisacodyl (Dulcolax), Senna (Senokot). |
Remember, these types of laxatives are not recommended for long-term use without your doctor's advice. Doing so can cause your body to lose its ability to expel stool normally.
When is surgery necessary?
If all other treatments don't help your constipation, surgery may be a last resort. But this isn't something everyone can do. It depends on what's causing your problem. For example, if you have a blockage in your bowel, a rectal prolapse, or an anal fissure, surgery can correct it. Also, if a part of your colon isn't working properly and is causing your constipation, surgery can remove that part. These are usually done very rarely. So only your doctor will know for sure.
Take-Home Message
- Chronic constipation is not something to be ignored. It is very important to find the specific cause.
- Before starting medication, try simple things like adding fiber to your diet, drinking plenty of water, and exercising.
- If you use laxatives, do so only under the advice of a doctor and for a short period of time. Continued use can cause other problems.
- If none of these things work, don't be afraid or embarrassed to talk to your doctor about it. He or she will suggest the most appropriate treatment for you.
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