Constipation is a much-discussed topic. It’s perceived as annoying and embarrassing, but untreated chronic constipation can develop into the root cause of many other diseases.
So how does a person know when they are constipated?
Typically, a person with less than three bowel movements in a week is diagnosed with constipation. Constipation causes hard stools that are irregular and in lesser quantity.
The reasons for constipation can vary. It might be due to inadequate nutrition and lifestyle habits that do not include enough fiber, water, and exercise. This can be rectified with lifestyle modifications. Sometimes, it occurs due to the slow passage of stool through the colon or from a blockage in the large intestine. A person may need hospital treatment for constipation, and it is best to consult the experts at a specialized constipation hospital in Chandigarh.
Causes of Constipation:
Chaudhary Hospital, a specialized constipation hospital in Chandigarh, states that there could be various reasons why constipation occurs.
The primary cause can be linked to poor diet and lifestyle with low fiber content, water, and lack of physical exercise. Sometimes, medications may slow down peristalsis muscle contractions are not as strong and cannot move the food fast causing it to stay longer in the colon. When the body reabsorbs the water present in the colon, it makes the stool hard and difficult to evacuate.
Health is also more than just physical causes and symptoms. Good overall health involves our mind and emotions as well. Sometimes, highly negative emotions such as anger, stress, and worry can also become a cause for constipation.
The anal sphincter, instead of relaxing, contracts thus preventing the expulsion of stool, causing it to accumulate in the rectum.
Symptoms of constipation:
- Difficulty in expelling stool
- Straining when sitting to pass stool
- Less stool quantity
- Hard stools
- Bloating and cramping
- Loss of appetite
- Ignoring/Postponing bowel movements
Relationship between Aging and Constipation
The problem of constipation increases with age. The reason could be that people generally reduce physical activity or the fact that food takes longer to pass through the digestive tract in older people. Medications and health issues could also lead to constipation in older people.
Colorectal Problems and Constipation
Colorectal health problems that affect the colon can lead to constipation. It is best to seek hospital treatment for constipation if you are facing any colorectal issues such as
- Tumors
- Hernia
- Scar tissue
- Diverticulitis
- Colorectal stricture
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Health Complications that Constipation Can Cause
SO
Constipation is the most cause of SIBO- small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. This is a condition in which bacteria from the large intestine transit to the small intestine which causes 80% of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) cases. These can further cause weight gain, fatigue, and related problems.
Hemorrhoids
Constipation can cause inflammation in the rectal area and cause the veins to become varicose-like. Veins, when swollen, are referred to as hemorrhoids. These can be internal or external. The severity depends on person to person but they cause itchiness and are painful. They can also bleed. If left untreated they can cause blood clots leading to infections. If severe, it is suggested to seek medical correction from a reputed constipation hospital Chandigarh.
Rectal prolapse
Rectal prolapse happens when the rectum tissue loses elasticity due to excessive straining and slips outside the body. It can cause bleeding and a lot of pain. The symptoms are similar to hemorrhoids. If you perceive any swelling in the anal regions, do go for a complete diagnosis and constipation treatment in Chandigarh.
Anal fissure
Anal fissures are caused when the tissue surrounding the anus tears and causes pain and bleeding. These make passing stool painful which only exacerbates constipation. If it grows in severity, you might require surgery.
Impaction
Stool impaction is very unpleasant. The stool that remains in the body sticks to the intestines building hard mass that further blocks the colon. It can result in nausea and pain and needs medical intervention which you can avail at Chaudhary Hospital, the best constipation hospital in Chandigarh.
Poor Immunity
Constipation causes a decrease or damage in the intestinal flora, which is responsible for the body’s immune response. When toxic buildup happens due to impaired gut flora, it can cause inflammation and leave the body vulnerable to diseases and infections like UTIs.
Prevention and Treatment of Constipation:
Prevention
- Consume high-fiber foods and fresh vegetables
- Reduce consumption of processed foods and dairy and meat products.
- Tank up drink plenty of water
- Physical activity is a must
- Manage your stress and anger
- Don’t delay passing stool
- Try and set up a regular schedule to pass stool
- Discuss with your doctor about any medication you feel may be causing constipation
Also read: Best Urologist in Chandigarh
When to consult a doctor?
If you face the following associated symptoms with constipation, seek hospital treatment for constipation.
Bad abdominal pain
Nausea/ Vomiting/ Bloating
Blood in stool
These can be life-threatening symptoms and you must seek Constipation treatment in Chandigarh. Chaudhary Hospital is known as a specialized constipation hospital in Chandigarh and has an excellent team of doctors who can diagnose and treat your condition in the safest way possible.
