What is Constipation?

What is Constipation?
Constipation refers to a condition where bowel movements are difficult or occur less frequently than normal. Constipation is also known as constipation. Almost everyone experiences constipation at some point in their lives.
While constipation generally doesn't lead to serious health problems, individuals will feel much more comfortable once the symptoms have passed.
The normal time between bowel movements varies from person to person. Some people have bowel movements three times a day, while others only have them a few times a week.
However, not having a bowel movement for three or more days is considered too long. After the third day, it becomes difficult to have a bowel movement due to hardening of the stool. Passing stools less than three times a week is defined as constipation.
Causes of Constipation
Constipation can have many causes, often based on lifestyle. These can include changes in diet and daily activities.
Not consuming enough water or fiber during meals is another reason. Consuming large amounts of dairy products can cause constipation in some individuals. Not leading an active lifestyle or resisting the urge to have a bowel movement for a long time can lead to constipation. Stress is another cause of constipation.
Long-term use of laxatives or stool softeners can also lead to constipation. Additionally, certain medications such as strong pain relievers, antidepressants, iron supplements, and antacids containing calcium or aluminum can cause constipation.
Various eating disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, pregnancy, problems with nerves and muscles in the digestive system, colon cancer, neurological problems such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis, and medical problems such as underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can also cause constipation symptoms.
Symptoms of Constipation
If individuals have fewer bowel movements, feel a straining sensation during bowel movements, pass hard or very small stools, don't feel like their bowels are completely empty after using the toilet, and experience abdominal bloating, these are considered symptoms of constipation.
In addition, if there is a need to press on the abdomen or stomach area manually or with fingers to assist in bowel movements, this can also be considered a symptom of constipation.
If there is sudden constipation accompanied by abdominal pain or cramping, and if there is an inability to have a bowel movement or pass gas at all, it is necessary to consult a doctor immediately.
If constipation has just started and the measures taken are not sufficient, if there is blood in the stool, if there is unintentional and unexplained weight loss, if bowel movements cause severe pain, if constipation lasts for more than two weeks, or if the size, shape, and consistency of the stool have changed significantly, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
When constipation persists, the doctor may recommend some tests to find the cause of constipation. These may include blood tests to check hormone levels, tests to check anal muscles, tests to see how waste moves along the intestines, or colonoscopy to check for colon blockages. Keeping track of bowel movements, stool characteristics, diet, and other factors can help find an appropriate treatment.
Methods for Diagnosing Constipation
Constipation can have many causes. It is important to identify these causes to make treatment as simple and specific as possible. Your doctor will inquire about your medical history and bowel habits, and then perform a physical examination to identify these causes.
Digital examination of the anorectal area, usually the first step, can provide clues to the underlying causes of the problem as it examines the lower part of the rectum and anus.
Endoscopic examination of the large intestine using a flexible lighted instrument called an endoscope or barium X-ray examination can reveal serious conditions such as polyps, tumors, or diverticular diseases known to cause constipation. Treatment is aimed at correcting abnormalities when an anatomical problem is detected.
Physiological tests can also be used to evaluate the function of the anus and rectum. In these tests, which are used to examine the functions of the anus and rectum during defecation, the reflexes of the anus muscles controlling defecation are evaluated using a small plastic catheter or imaging methods.
In many cases, when no structural or functional cause can be distinguished after the examinations, it is considered that there is no specific cause of constipation.
In cases where examination findings are normal and there are no risk factors, only dietary and chronobiological recommendations are offered to individuals with constipation resulting from inadequate fiber intake and inactivity.
In cases of constipation with no explanation by lifestyle, if there are other problems such as abdominal pain or weight loss, advanced examinations such as colonoscopy may be required for diagnosis.
Although rare, more serious conditions such as diverticular disease (colonic diverticulosis) and colon cancer can also cause constipation.
When an organic pathology is not detected, more advanced tests such as anorectal manometry, defecography, colonic transit time measurements, and balloon expulsion tests help in the diagnosis of this complex condition.
Treatment Methods for Constipation
Constipation is generally a condition that can be resolved without the need for prescription treatment. In most cases, lifestyle changes such as exercising more, eating more fiber, and drinking more water are beneficial in relieving constipation.
Dried fruits such as dried apricots, figs, prunes, and raisins, fresh fruits such as apples, grapes, and avocados, fibrous vegetables and foods such as spinach, cabbage, cranberries, celery, beets, leeks, and legumes, as well as consuming lean meat and fish, along with the use of olive oil, thyme, are foods that are good for constipation.
Taking time to use the toilet without stress or interruption can also help. When the urge to have a bowel movement comes, it should not be ignored, and one should go to the toilet immediately.
The use of laxatives or stool softeners may improve symptoms in the short term, but they should be used carefully and only when necessary. This is because some laxatives can have serious adverse effects.
Before using a laxative or stool softener, it is essential to consult a doctor and carefully follow the instructions in the medication leaflet. If constipation persists, it is essential to consult a doctor. In addition to prescribing stronger constipation medications, the underlying causes of constipation can be identified.
What Helps with Constipation?
If fluid intake has not been limited by a doctor for another reason, drinking two to four additional glasses of water a day will be effective in relieving constipation without medication.
Especially warm liquid consumption should be done in the morning. Fruits and vegetables should be added to the daily diet. Dried apricots and bran cereal should be consumed. Exercise should be done at least four days a week. The urge to have a bowel movement should not be resisted.
Constipation can be relieved by using laxatives or stool softeners. There are multiple types of constipation medications and laxatives, and they are generally available directly from pharmacies without a prescription.
However, each type of laxative works differently to relieve constipation. To determine which type of laxative or constipation medication will be effective and how long it should be used, it is essential to consult a doctor beforehand.
Among the constipation medications that may help alleviate constipation, fiber supplements are primarily included. These are also known as bulk-forming laxatives and are generally the safest option.