What causes constipation? may seem like a simple inquiry. The phrase refers to a variety of bowel movement issues. Stools that resemble pellets or are less bulky can indicate constipation. It may also be used to describe constipation, excessive straining, or the sensation that you cannot remove all the stool. Despite the fact that they are all descriptions of constipation, the symptoms vary.

What is chronic constipation?

When constipation persists for several weeks to months, it becomes chronic. You should be specific when reporting your particular problems to your doctor because distinct constipation symptoms could indicate different problems and necessitate different remedies.

It is totally acceptable to not have a bowel movement every day, to dispel a widespread misperception among people used to having one on schedule every day. Although it can be uncomfortable to have too few bowel movements (usually considered to be two or less per week), there is no physiological need to do so.

There are principally two forms of constipation. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract’s contents move slowly in the first sign. The second type of constipation occurs closer to the exit and is characterised by trouble emptying the bowels because of issues with the pelvic muscles. Treatment options for the first type of constipation include increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables and fiber-rich supplements. Imaging examinations or procedures may be required for a more thorough analysis of the second form.

I’m definitely constipated! Why is it happening?

There are numerous causes of constipation, so it’s critical to first comprehend them. Some constipation causes are treatable, and treating them may help you have better bowel movements. Before including more fibre in your diet if constipation is a new complaint, talk to your GP about the symptoms to make sure no diagnostic tests, such as abdominal x-rays or lab tests, are required. If you are taking any new medications, or if you experience rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, or vomiting, consult your doctor right away. Any of these symptoms may indicate that you need to be examined for other, more serious medical concerns.

What alternatives are there to using pills to cure my constipation?

This is one of the most frequent inquiries I receive from patients, which is why studies on the benefits of consuming fiber-rich fruits and vegetables in the diet are so intriguing. It is difficult to advise specific treatment regimens because there is a lack of solid evidence to support them, unlike when we would suggest standardised amounts of medication.

This study has some significant restrictions. Patients with persistent constipation typically have an average age of 43 and were predominately female. Patients were informed of the type of intervention they were getting (kiwi, prunes, or psyllium). There were only roughly 80 patients in the trial, making it rather modest. And it is still unknown whether kiwi fruit would continue to relieve constipation after four weeks (which was the length of the study). For those looking for natural solutions to treat a persistent ailment, it does provide another potential addition to the diet. I feel confident enough in the new findings to suggest kiwifruit to my patients who want to get rid of constipation.

Let’s say the natural approach does not work: Then what?

Consult your doctor and see if you need an evaluation for what might be causing your troubles if you have constipation that is new and not responding to things you are trying at home. This is true of anything you attempt on your own. There is no shame in acknowledging that, with the typical Western diet, it might be challenging to consume enough fibre (aim for 5 grams per meal). Try to eat as much fibre as you can for reasons other than constipation, such as colon health and healthy gut bacteria. There are many over-the-counter and prescription-strength laxatives that are effective in treating constipation if you are unable to consume enough fibre (or enough kiwis!) to improve your condition. Reach out if you’re uncertain! When there are other secure and efficient therapies available, there is no need to suffer.