Constipation is a prevalent digestive ailment that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. It occurs when bowel movements become irregular or challenging, leading to discomfort and inconvenience. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and effective remedies is crucial for managing this common issue.
Several factors contribute to constipation, with a low-fibre diet being the primary culprit. Fibre adds bulk to stool, facilitating smoother passage through the digestive tract. Inadequate fluid intake, lack of physical activity, and ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can also contribute to this condition.
When India TV asked about the causes of constipation in adults, Dr Pallavi Garg, Gastrologist, Apollo Spectra Delhi (Chirag Enclave) said, “Certain medications and conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, uremia, and hypercalcemia are known to cause constipation. Colorectal cancer, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, Neurological disorders such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke can also affect bowel function. Multiple organ diseases like amyloidosis, lupus, scleroderma, and pregnancy can contribute to changes in bowel habits inviting constipation. Certain medications, such as pain relievers and iron supplements, may further exacerbate constipation.”
“Recognising the symptoms of constipation is essential for early intervention. Infrequent bowel movements, straining during defecation, and a sense of incomplete evacuation are common indicators. Abdominal discomfort and bloating may accompany these symptoms, making it imperative to address the issue promptly.”
Increasing dietary fibre by incorporating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote regular bowel movements. Staying hydrated is equally crucial, as water helps soften stool and ease its passage. Regular physical activity stimulates bowel function, contributing to a healthier digestive system.
In addition to lifestyle changes, over-the-counter laxatives and fibre supplements can offer relief. However, their use should be approached cautiously, as dependency can develop. Consulting a healthcare professional before using such remedies is advisable. A large number of people are suffering from constipation and find it embarrassing to discuss with the doctor. But, one shouldn’t take it lightly and try to seek medical attention without any delay to determine the underlying cause behind it.
Sometimes it can be a symptom of some underlying disease. So sudden change in bowel habits, constipation associated with blood in stools, unexplained weight loss, low haemoglobin or nutritional deficiencies. Constipation along with pain in the abdomen and vomiting can be a feature of some serious underlying diseases.
Constipation can lead to various complications like swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum (haemorrhoids), tears in the anus lining from hardened stool (anal fissures), infections in pouches formed off the colon wall (diverticulitis), faecal impaction, and damage to pelvic floor muscles leading to urinary leakage (stress urinary incontinence).
“By adopting a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and embracing an active lifestyle, individuals can mitigate the discomfort associated with constipation and maintain optimal digestive health. Please consult your GI health physician if required”, said Dr Garg.
ALSO READ: Constipation Awareness Month 2023: Know 6 myths linked to the common health issue
Latest Health News
Top News
NIA launches massive raids across 4 states in sweeping anti-terror operation
Watch: Aishwarya Bachchan lovingly kisses her daughter Aaradhya after annual function
21-year-old’s body discovered hanging from Eden Gardens gallery
Related Constipation News
Winter Skin Diseases: Holistic approaches to cure Eczema and Psoriasis
Health benefits of drinking one glass of Coconut water on an empty stomach
Oranges to dried plum: 5 winter fruits to lower cholesterol level
Eating meals early may lower cardiovascular risk: Study
Superfood Kulith: Know THESE 5 benefits of Horse Gram
Latest News
Constipation Awareness Month 2023: Effective ways to tackle this common issue in adults
Lucknow: Fire breaks out at OPD of Sanjay Gandhi PGI Hospital, two injured
5 benefits of drinking guava leaf tea in winter
JSSC JMSCCE admit card 2023 out at jssc.nic.in, direct link here
© 2009-2023 Independent News Service. All rights reserved.
Armed Forces Flag Day: Honouring Our Soldiers’ Unwavering Commitment For Nation | Perspective
Muqabla : After PM Modi’s Massive Victory… I.N.D.I.A bloc meeting postponed ?
OMG India TV: Whose government will be formed in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Mizoram?
Super 100: Watch Top 100 News of The Day
Aaj Ka Rashifal: From Aries to Pisces, know how will be your day from Acharya Indu Prakash
NIA launches massive raids across 4 states in sweeping anti-terror operation
Telecom Bill 2023 empowers government to ‘suspend’ services over national security: Reports
Chinese President will not forget any time soon: Gen Naravane on India’s response to Galwan clash
Parliament Winter Session 2023: Unfortunate that Oppn is doing politics on security, says Speaker
Gurugram: One dead, four injured after speeding SUV jumps divider, hits bike | VIDEO
Telangana: With chanting of mantras and shehnai, dy CM Mallu assumes office | WATCH
Rajasthan: Is Vasundhara Raje upset? Deputy CM Diya Kumari has this to say
Corruption will have no place under new Mizoram govt: Governor
Bhajan Lal Sharma to take oath as Rajasthan Chief Minister on THIS date: Check here
Vasundhara Raje extends wishes to Bhajan Lal Sharma over nomination as Rajasthan CM
Bihar man, carrying placenta attached infant’s body in plastic bag, arrested in Nepal
‘Islam is not compatible with European culture, values and rights of civilisation’: Italy PM Meloni
Israeli military discovers 4 km tunnel in Gaza, wide enough for cars to pass through I VIDEO
Who is Reuven Azar? Facts to know about Israel’s new Ambassador to India
Security scare as car crashes into Joe Biden’s motorcade; President, first lady unharmed | VIDEO
Watch: Aishwarya Bachchan lovingly kisses her daughter Aaradhya after annual function
Bhojpuri actor Brijesh Tripathi, best known for ‘Gharwali Baharwali’, dies due to heart attack
Shah Rukh Khan starrer Dunki gets a standing ovation at Censor Board screening
Varun Dhawan suffers leg injury while shooting for upcoming project, shares update on Instagram
Dunki creates history: Crosses 1 crore advance booking gross for opening day in India
21-year-old’s body discovered hanging from Eden Gardens gallery
IPL mock auction 2024: Shardul Thakur and Mitchell Starc among most expensive players of event
‘He will take pitch out of equation’: Manjrekar wants RCB, MI to go after 33-year-old WC winner
IPL auction 2024: All you need to know about the event in Dubai, start time, live streaming details
Yuzvendra Chahal’s heart-warming gesture towards ex-Mumbai Indians skipper melts netizens
New Year came earlier for Infosys employees as they recieve early salary hike letters | All you need
Apple agrees to pay $25 million for settling Family Sharing lawsuit | Deets here
Nothing Phone 3 – Price and release date leaked | All you need to know
Instagram adds backdrop – a new AI editing tool for photo backgrounds | Deets here
Google’s 12,000 job cut decision was made to adjust with the changing economic conditions- Pichai
The Wanderers to turn pink for South Africa vs India 1st ODI | EXPLAINED
Why Mumbai Indians are investing in Hardik Pandya as captain ahead of IPL 2024?
Israel-Hamas War: Is there a growing rift between Joe Biden and Benjamin Netanyahu? Explained
Unraveling the constitutional evolution of Article 370: A comprehensive overview
After abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir, Modi-government presents two Bills | EXPLAINED
Winter Skin Diseases: Holistic approaches to cure Eczema and Psoriasis
Health benefits of drinking one glass of Coconut water on an empty stomach
Oranges to dried plum: 5 winter fruits to lower cholesterol level
Eating meals early may lower cardiovascular risk: Study
Superfood Kulith: Know THESE 5 benefits of Horse Gram
5 benefits of drinking guava leaf tea in winter
Chia Seeds vs Basil Seeds: Which is better for your health?
Brown Sugar vs White Sugar: Which is good for your health?
Try THESE remedies and easy tips to remove feet tanning at home
Barbados to Kenya: List of countries Indian passport holders can travel without visa