Doctor explains CONSTIPATION | Causes, symptoms & treatment - plus when to see your own doctor!

Summary

Constipation is a common issue that affects people of all ages, but it can often be managed with simple lifestyle changes. This video covers the various causes of constipation, such as poor diet, dehydration, lack of exercise, and stress. It provides practical solutions, including increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, maintaining a regular toilet routine, improving posture, and engaging in physical activity. If lifestyle changes don’t help, a pharmacist may recommend a laxative. The video also explains when to consult a doctor, such as when constipation persists for more than a month or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Takeaways

• 😀 Constipation is a common condition that affects people of all ages and can be treated with simple lifestyle and dietary changes.
• 😀 Symptoms of constipation include infrequent bowel movements, large, dry, or hard stools, straining, and pain while going to the toilet.
• 😀 Common causes of constipation include not eating enough fiber, dehydration, lack of physical activity, ignoring the urge to go, and certain medications.
• 😀 Stress, anxiety, and depression can also contribute to constipation, and it is particularly common during pregnancy and post-childbirth.
• 😀 Dietary changes, such as increasing fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, grains) and drinking plenty of fluids, can help prevent and treat constipation.
• 😀 Creating a regular toilet routine and not delaying the urge to go can improve bowel movements.
• 😀 Using a stool (like a Squatty Potty) to elevate your feet while on the toilet can help improve bowel movements by aligning the body better for easier passage of stool.
• 😀 Physical activity, such as walking or running, stimulates blood flow and helps the bowels function more regularly.
• 😀 If lifestyle changes do not improve constipation after a month, consult a pharmacist about the use of laxatives, which should only be used for a short period.
• 😀 See a doctor if constipation persists for more than a month, if you're experiencing bloating, blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue.
• 😀 Laxatives work in various ways (stimulation, adding bulk, or bringing fluids to the colon) and should be used under guidance, as misuse can have adverse effects.

Q & A

What are the common signs of constipation?

Common signs of constipation include infrequent bowel movements (less than three times a week), large, dry, hard, or lumpy stools, straining or pain during bowel movements, and the sensation of incomplete evacuation.

What are some common causes of constipation in adults?

Some common causes of constipation in adults include insufficient fiber intake, not drinking enough water, lack of physical activity, ignoring the urge to go, changes in diet or routine, side effects from certain medications, and stress or mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

Can pregnancy cause constipation?

Yes, constipation is common during pregnancy and may continue for about six weeks after giving birth due to hormonal changes and other physical factors.

How can lifestyle changes help prevent constipation?

Lifestyle changes to prevent constipation include drinking plenty of fluids (at least 1.8 liters per day), increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and grains, and engaging in regular physical activity like walking or running.

What foods can help increase fiber intake to prevent constipation?

Foods that can help increase fiber intake include wheat bran, oats, linseed, apples, bananas, lentils, chickpeas, dates, and nuts like walnuts and almonds.

What is the purpose of using a low stool like a Squatty Potty during bowel movements?

Using a low stool, like a Squatty Potty, helps elevate your knees above your hips, which creates a better angle for your rectum, making it easier to pass stool.

How can physical activity help with constipation?

Physical activity, such as walking or running, increases blood flow throughout the abdomen and bowels, which helps stimulate bowel movements and improves regularity.

What should you do if lifestyle changes don't improve your constipation?

If lifestyle changes don't work after a month of consistent effort, you may want to speak with a pharmacist. They can recommend a suitable laxative to help relieve constipation.

What are laxatives, and how do they work?

Laxatives are medicines that help stimulate bowel movements. They work in different ways, including stimulating bowel activity, adding bulk to the stool, or drawing fluids into the colon. They are usually recommended for short-term use.

When should you consider seeing a doctor about constipation?

You should see a doctor if your constipation persists despite treatment, lasts for over a month, is accompanied by bloating, blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue. It's also important to consult a doctor if you're taking medications like opioids that cause constipation.