If you’ve been constipated for two weeks or more, you may want to seek a medical diagnosis from a gastroenterologist. There are a number of common treatments for constipation, including laxatives and stool softeners. While pain is a common symptom of constipation, the exact cause of the problem is unclear.
Slow transit
Constipation that is slow to transit can be painful and difficult to relieve. This condition is often categorized according to its underlying cause, which is often related to the pelvic floor muscles. Many people suffer from slow transit constipation due to a lack of propulsive force during defecation. While these patients are mostly treated with medications and lifestyle changes, some may also require surgery.
The intestines’ movements are controlled by a second brain, the enteric nervous system. Abnormalities of the enteric nervous system cause the intestines to transit slowly and are one of the causes of slow transit constipation. The condition is most common in women, usually beginning at a young age and may be a sign of neural intestinal dysplasia. It may also be accompanied by haemorrhoids.
Patients with slow transit constipation typically report frequent stools, abdominal pain, and bloating. The frequency of stools is often correlated with the use of laxatives. However, the laxatives don’t seem to have a direct effect on the symptoms of slow transit. It is important to assess the frequency of stools and the frequency of bowel movements as part of a thorough evaluation of the causes of slow transit constipation.
Lack of water
Constipation is a painful condition characterized by the inability to pass stools. This is caused by a lack of water in the intestines. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water every day can help prevent dehydration and keep your stools soft. Constipation is also caused by a diet high in fibre, a sedentary lifestyle, and not getting enough exercise. Also, ignoring the urge to urinate can make your constipation worse.
The problem of constipation is often related to a poor diet. People who are constantly suffering from this problem have a colon filled with waste that becomes hard and difficult to pass. People who are suffering from this condition should avoid processed foods and food additives as they may cause constipation. Additionally, a proper diet should consist of whole foods high in fiber.
People who suffer from constipation should visit their doctor. Although discussing bowel movements is not a pleasant topic, a physician is a trained health professional and will ask about any medical history, lifestyle habits, medications, and supplements.
Stress
Stress can affect your body in a number of ways, ranging from physical pain to mental health. It can negatively impact the gut microbiome and interfere with proper digestion. It may also increase your appetite. These symptoms can make your life more difficult and can also lead to unhealthy food choices. Fortunately, there are some ways to deal with stress without compromising your digestive health.
First, stress can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. High blood pressure weakens heart muscles and increases sugar and fat levels in the blood. Constant pressure can also weaken blood vessels, leading to clotting and even bursts. Stress can also cause your digestive tract to produce more mucus, which can lead to constipation.
Another way to cope with stress is to avoid stressful situations. Anxiety and depression can impair intestinal peristalsis, resulting in painful bowel movements. In addition, taking certain medications can dull nerves and muscles and cause constipation.
Buildup of gas
Gas is produced by the digestive system when certain types of food are not completely digested in the small intestine. This undigested food then passes into the large intestine, where bacteria break it down further. These bacteria then produce gas. In some people, the amount of gas increases due to certain health conditions or by eating particular types of foods.
Many patients are embarrassed to mention the buildup of gas in their stomach to their doctor, even though it may not be indicative of a serious illness. Nevertheless, if you experience stomach pain regularly, see a doctor to rule out more serious conditions that could be affecting your digestive tract. Your doctor will review your symptoms and determine if you need further tests to rule out a more serious condition.
Certain people are sensitive to normal amounts of gas, which causes them to pass a large amount of gas during bowel movements. If this happens often, it could indicate a problem with the upper GI system, such as peptic ulcer disease or gastritis. Some people may also be sensitive to gas, making them experience pain or discomfort when passing it. While constipation and gas are not usually serious ailments, the presence of excessive gas can lead to other health conditions, including gallstones and heart disease.
