This page will help answer your questions.
What is constipation?
Constipation is a common symptom, described as having fewer than three bowel movements per week or having difficulty passing hard stools.
What are the causes of constipation?
Possible causes of constipation include:
- Low fiber intake in the diet, such as a lack of fruits and vegetables.
- Not drinking enough fluids.
- Lack of regular physical activity.
- Sitting for long periods.
- Changes in diet.
- A side effect of certain medications.
- Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement.
How to manage constipation? Tips that may help reduce the chances of constipation:
Making simple changes to your diet and lifestyle may help relieve constipation, such as:
- Eating fiber-rich foods like broccoli, bananas, carrots, strawberries, and berries.
- Increasing fluid intake.
- Reducing processed foods and meats.
- Exercising and walking.
When should you see a doctor?
- If constipation lasts for weeks.
- If there is blood in the stool.
- If you feel tired all day.
- If you experience significant weight loss.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are there medications that relieve constipation?
Yes, there are medications that relieve constipation. Your doctor may prescribe laxatives for a certain period.
Are there foods that cause constipation?
Excessive consumption of certain foods may cause constipation, such as:
- Eating too much red meat.
- Eating too much fast food.
- Eating foods that do not contain fiber.
- Drinking too much caffeine without compensating with water.
