Overcoming Constipation: An Irritable Bowel Movement
Are you tired of feeling miserable due to constipation? You are not alone. Many people suffer from constipation, leading to discomfort, pain, and frustration.
However, the good news is that there are ways to ease your suffering and GI doctors can help you. This blog will discuss everything you need to know about constipation, its causes, and effective treatments to manage it. Let's dive in!
Constipation: What's Behind the Discomfort?
Constipation occurs when you have difficulty passing stools, a common digestive problem affecting people of all ages. It can vary from person to person, but generally, it means:
Having fewer than three bowel movements per week.
Passing hard, dry, and small stools.
Feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and sluggish.
Straining during bowel movements.
Consult a GI physician to treat your digestive disorder and irritable bowel movement.
Constipation: Rare Instance or Common Problem?
Constipation is not a rare instance but a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. According to a study, about 16% of adults in the United States suffer chronic constipation. It's more common in women and older adults than men and younger people.
Typical Causes of Constipation
There are many reasons why you may experience constipation. Some of the common causes include:
Poor dietary habits, such as low fiber intake and dehydration.
Sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity.
Pelvic floor issues, such as weakened muscles or nerve damage.
Certain medications, such as painkillers, iron supplements and antidepressants.
Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menopause.
Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.
Problems with brain-gut visceral perception affect communication between the brain and digestive system.
Mobility issues, such as spinal cord injuries or muscle weakness.
Let's Discuss Effective Constipation Treatment
Fortunately, there are many ways to manage constipation and the treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity. Here are some effective treatments to consider:
Taking care of nutrition and practicing regular exercising:
Eating a fiber-rich diet.
Drinking plenty of fluids.
Staying physically active can help promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Taking over-the-counter medicines:
Many over-the-counter laxatives and stool softeners are available, such as Miralax, Colace and Dulcolax, which can help ease constipation.
Trying pelvic floor therapy:
If your constipation is due to pelvic floor issues, such as weak muscles or nerve damage, pelvic floor therapy can help strengthen the muscles and improve bowel movements.
Doctor's prescribed treatment:
If the above treatments do not work, your gastrointestinal doctor may recommend prescription medications, such as Lubiprostone or Linaclotide, to help relieve constipation.
Ease Your Discomfort: Seek Help from a GI Doctor
If your constipation is persistent, severe or accompanied by other symptoms, such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain or unintentional weight loss, it's essential to seek medical attention. Proficient GI doctors are specialists in diagnosing and treating digestive disorders, including constipation. They can perform tests like colonoscopy to identify the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. They can also advise you on diet, lifestyle changes and medication management to manage your constipation effectively.
Digestive Disease Specialists: Say Goodbye to Bowel Discomfort
If you're looking for reliable and experienced GI doctors in OKC, look no further than Digestive Disease Specialists, INC. Our board-certified physicians and medical professionals specialize in treating all types of digestive disorders, including constipation.
We offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment plans tailored to your needs, using the latest diagnostic tools and treatments. Our state-of-the-art facility provides a comfortable and welcoming environment, ensuring you receive the highest quality care possible.
We understand that dealing with digestive disorders can be overwhelming and stressful, so we are committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to all our patients. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier digestive system. Get Your digestive system on track!
**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.