Constipation Treatment Online

Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects people of all ages. It is characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficult passage of stools that persists for several weeks or longer.

Typically, constipation involves having fewer than three bowel movements per week. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor diet, insufficient water intake, lack of physical activity, and certain medications.

People suffering from constipation may experience symptoms such as hard or lumpy stools, straining to have bowel movements, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, and discomfort or bloating in the abdomen.

While it is usually not serious, chronic constipation can lead to complications such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures if not properly managed.

Treatment often includes lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake, drinking more fluids, and incorporating regular physical activity. In some cases, over-the-counter or prescription medications may also be recommended to help relieve symptoms.

What can cause constipation?

Constipation is a prevalent health issue that arises from various underlying causes ranging from dietary habits to medical conditions. Here are some common causes of constipation to be aware of:

• Dietary factors: One of the most common contributors to constipation is a diet low in fiber. Fiber helps to bulk up stools and promotes more regular bowel movements. Foods rich in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Conversely, consuming large amounts of dairy products and processed foods low in fiber can increase the risk of constipation.
• Fluid intake: Inadequate hydration is another key factor. Fluids add bulk to stools and help them pass more smoothly. When the body is dehydrated, the colon absorbs more water from food waste, which can lead to harder and drier stools that are difficult to pass.
• Physical activity: Lack of physical activity can also lead to constipation. Regular exercise helps stimulate intestinal activity and can be very beneficial in maintaining regular bowel movements.
• Medications: Certain medications can cause constipation as a side effect. These include some pain medications (especially narcotics), antacids that contain aluminum or calcium, certain antispasmodics, and antidepressants. Additionally, iron supplements and some blood pressure medications can also contribute to constipation.
• Medical conditions: Various medical conditions can predispose individuals to constipation. These include neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, which affect the nerves that cause muscles in the digestive tract to contract. Endocrine and metabolic conditions, such as hypothyroidism, can slow down bodily functions, including digestion. Diabetes also affects nerve function and may lead to constipation.
• Aging: As people age, their metabolism slows down, which can affect bowel function. The muscles in the digestive tract do not work as efficiently, which can slow down the transit of food waste.
• Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can influence the digestive system. These conditions can lead to a disruption of normal bowel function and exacerbate constipation.
• Overuse of laxatives: While laxatives can help relieve constipation, overuse can lead to dependency and worsen constipation. Over time, the bowel can become reliant on these medications to function, leading to a decrease in the bowel’s natural ability to work effectively.

Constipation symptoms

Constipation manifests through several common symptoms that can affect an individual’s comfort and quality of life. The primary symptom is infrequent bowel movements, typically fewer than three times per week.

Other symptoms include:

• Hard, dry stools: The stools may be difficult to pass, often described as lumpy or hard.
• Straining during bowel movements: This involves exerting more effort than normal to pass a bowel movement, which can be painful.
• The feeling of incomplete evacuation: After a bowel movement, there may be a sensation that not all stool has been passed.
• Abdominal discomfort: Symptoms can include pain, cramps, or bloating in the abdominal area.
• Nausea and loss of appetite: Sometimes, severe constipation can lead to feelings of nausea or a decreased appetite.

How is constipation treated?

Treatment for constipation generally begins with lifestyle modifications, including increasing dietary fiber intake, consuming more fluids, and engaging in regular physical activity. These changes can significantly improve bowel function.

If these measures are not sufficient, over-the-counter laxatives may be recommended. These can include bulk-forming agents, stool softeners, and osmotic agents, which help in different ways to ease the passage of stool.

In more persistent cases, a healthcare provider might prescribe prescription medications or recommend other treatments like biofeedback therapy.

Constipation medication

For managing constipation, several types of medications are available:

• Bulk-forming agents: Such as psyllium and methylcellulose, increase water content within the stool, making it easier to pass.
• Stool softeners: Docusate salts help moisten the stool by drawing water from the intestines.
• Osmotic agents: Including polyethylene glycol and lactulose, these draw fluid into the bowels to soften stools and stimulate bowel movements.
• Stimulant laxatives: Such as bisacodyl and senna, trigger rhythmic contractions in the intestines to move stools along.
• Prescription medications: For chronic constipation, medications like lubiprostone and linaclotide may be prescribed to increase fluid secretion in the intestines and speed up transit time.

Prevention

Preventing constipation primarily involves lifestyle and dietary changes:

• Dietary fiber: Incorporate a high-fiber diet including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help keep stools soft and regular.
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, helps prevent stools from becoming hard and dry.
• Regular exercise: Physical activity encourages more regular bowel movements.
• Routine: Establishing a regular time for bowel movements can help develop consistency in passing stools.
• Avoid delay: Respond to the urge to have a bowel movement as soon as possible to prevent the stool from becoming harder and drier.
• Limit certain foods and medications: Avoid excessive consumption of dairy products and processed foods, and discuss with a healthcare provider any medications that may contribute to constipation.

How can DrHouse Help?

DrHouse is a telehealth platform that connects patients with licensed healthcare providers who can diagnose and treat constipation.

Through the secure online platform, patients can access qualified medical advice and personalized treatment plans from the comfort of their own homes.  The physicians on DrHouse can review a patient’s medical history, symptoms, and current medications to determine the best course of treatment for their constipation.

If necessary, the doctors on DrHouse can also prescribe medications and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications to help manage constipation effectively.

Don’t let constipation affect your daily life any longer. Sign up for DrHouse today and start feeling better.