WHAT IS CONSTIPATION?
Constipation is a symptom that has different meanings to different people. Most commonly, it is refered to as infrequent bowel movements. It may also include: hard stools, straining with bowel movements, a sense of imcomplete evacuation, or the use of laxatives, enemas, and suppositories.
For most people, bowel movements occur from 3 times per day to 3 times per week. Wide spread beliefs that everyone should have 1 bowel movement per day has led to overuse and abuse of laxatives.
Normal bowel habits are affected by diet. The average American diet only gets 12-15 grams of fiber. 25-30 grams of fiber is recommended. In addition, 60-80 ounces of fluid is advised. Exercise is also beneficial to a healthy colon.
80% of people suffer from constipation some time in their lives. It is usually short lived.
WHAT CAUSES CONSTIPATION?
There are many causes of constipation: inadequate fluid intact, not enough fiber in the diet, a sedentary lifestyle, environmental changes.
The most serious cause of constipation include growths or cancers that narrow the colon. Diabetes, nerve injuries, thyroid disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease.
CAN MEDICATIONS CAUSE CONSTIPATION?
Yes. Pain killers, tranquilizers, psychiatric medications, blood pressure medications, diuretics, iron, calcium, and antacids all can contribute to constipation.
WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR ABOUT MY CONSTIPATION?
Any persistent change in bowel habits, increase or decrease in stool size, or difficulty evacuating warrants evaluation. If symptoms last longer than 3 weeks or there is bleeding, consult your physician.
CAN THE CAUSE OF CONSTIPATION BE DETERMINED?
A history, including medical problems and medications will be taken. A physical exam and digital rectal exam will be done. Tests include xrays, marker studies, colonoscopy, ano-rectal manometry and nerve testing. These tests usually give results, but in some cases no cause may be found.
HOW IS CONSTIPATION TREATED?
Most treatments include dietary changes, increase fluid intake, and fiber supplements.