If you want to know how to treat constipation, it's important to know more about the condition itself.
Bowel movements aren't always as easy and straightforward as they should be. When these bowel movements become too loose, diarrhea is possible. However, constipation is a condition that occurs when the stool becomes hardened or is simply difficult to pass.
Constipation can either occur occasionally or chronically, the latter of which means that the condition is long-lasting and recurs on a frequent basis.
What Is Constipation?
Constipation is a very common condition that's diagnosed as such whenever a person has less than three bowel movements per week. Constipation can be either acute or chronic, which means that it can occur only occasionally or on a regular basis. When you're suffering from constipation, you'll have difficulties with passing stools. Chronic cases of constipation may cause issues with leading a normal life. Many people who suffer from chronic constipation will also strain far too much when trying to pass stools. The treatment option that's used for constipation depends on what's causing the condition.
Common Symptoms of Constipation
The main symptom of constipation is having less than three bowel movements each week. The stools that you pass will also be hard or lumpy. Straining is common and will likely occur when you're trying to pass stools. Many individuals who experience this condition feel as though there's some sort of blockage within the rectum that's causing issues with bowel movements. Constipation is generally considered to be chronic if the issue has subsisted for at least three months and has caused two or more of the aforementioned symptoms.
Causes of Constipation
The main cause of constipation is because the stool or waste is moving far too slowly throughout the digestive tract, which can cause the stool to become dry and hard. When the stool hardens, it will invariably be more difficult to pass. Chronic cases of constipation have a wide array of notable causes, which is why the cause for the condition will need to be diagnosed before it can be fully cleared up. There could be blockages within the rectum or colon, which can be caused by such issues as rectal cancer, colon cancer, a bowel obstruction, or an anal fissure. Other possible causes of chronic constipation include issues with the nerves surrounding the rectum and colon, problems with your pelvic muscles, or hormonal conditions.
Treatment Methods Available for Constipation
As mentioned previously, the treatment used for constipation depends on the cause of the condition. Acute constipation should dissipate on its own with the aid of an increase of fiber intake and regular exercise. A range of different types of laxatives could also be used to soften the stool, which includes stimulants, fiber supplements, and stool softeners. Surgery is sometimes administered when all other treatments have failed and your chronic case of constipation is caused by something like an anal fissure or blockage. If the issue is caused by slow movement of stool through the colon, it's possible that a portion of the colon will be removed.