Chronic Ailments
Pebble Poop - A problem?
DECEMBER – “Constipation Awareness Month”
As we are all soaked in the merriment and glee of this festive month... Let’s also remember that we are observing ‘Constipation Awareness Month’ along with these festivities!
Well, “CONSTIPATION” a frequently heard word and a rarely discussed topic, is the term coined for infrequent/incomplete and difficult bowel movements and evacuation of small and hard stool. As many people feel difficulty in discussing or opening up about this condition and feel extremely shy and hesitant in voicing out their queries concerning constipation, we present you with this handy with “whats”, ”whys”,” and hows” and also to create awareness among folks who are silently struggling!!
Lack of fiber and water content, in the food taken.
Elderly people: they tend to have less physical activity, lesser muscle contraction in their abdomen region, and slower metabolism than when they were young
Women: Most women face the issue of constipation during and post their pregnancy. Changes in hormones and the baby present in the uterus squish the intestine, which leads to constipation.
Presence of certain medical conditions- neurologic disorders, Colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, Scleroderma, amyloidosis. Other gastrointestinal disorders, e.g. Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Intestinal obstruction, outlet dysfunction constipation (defect in the co-ordination of lower abdomen and pelvis muscles, which helps in the release of stool)
Certain medications (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-depressants, narcotics, anti-allergens, anti-convulsant, antacids containing calcium, beta-blockers, etc.,) present with constipation as one of the adverse effects.
- Changes in diet/eating patterns, travel, and daily routine
- Eating disorders
- Sturdy diet - rich in meat and dairy
- Stress
- Misuse of laxatives
- Hormonal problems and underactive thyroid glands
What does one feel when constipated?
Whilst signs and symptoms vary from person to person, the most commonly observed ones have been
listed below:
- Irregular to few bowel movements
- Trouble (strain) in expulsion of stool
- Hard and small stool
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Pain and cramping in the abdomen region
- Sensation/feel of incomplete evacuation
What happens when left untreated??
Apart from the uncomfortableness, chronic constipation can result in varied complications, which include:
- Rectal prolapse – a condition where the intestine sticks out or protrudes out of the anus. Further strain to result in a bowel movement can cause stretching and bulging of the rectum.
- Anal fissure: Otherwise known as ripped or torn skin in the anus, occurs while attempting to pass large and hard stools, with a burning sensation and radiating pain, which can last from a few days to even years.
- Fecal impaction: known as stool that’s stuck or can’t be passed.
- Hemorrhoids: strain to induce a bowel movement causes swelling in blood vessels in around the anus area.
How does one get
relieved from this!?
Following are the measures taken to relieve an individual from constipation:
Tweaking certain changes in the diet and physical activity is one of the easiest way and fastest ways to treat as well as prevent constipation:
Consistent intake of 1.5 - 2 liters of liquid intake to stay hydrated. This may include water and unsweetened fluids.
Intake of fiber-rich foods- whole grains, beans, bran cereals, prunes, and adding probiotics in daily diet.
Limited or no consumption of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they root for dehydration.
Dairy products, meat, and processed food consumption can be cut down, for they are low in fiber content.
Having a target of 30 minutes of physical activity, at least 5-6 times a week.
Allowing oneself plenty of time, to relax muscles when using the bathroom.
When feeling/sensing the urge to have a bowel movement, it is best advised not to delay it as this may lead to hardening of the stools.
Discuss with a health professional regarding bowel training and positions so as to adapt bowel movements at the same time, every day.
Medications: Healthcare professionals may usually recommend an over-the-counter laxative (listed below), in case home remedies fail;
- Fiber supplements
- Stimulants
- Stool softeners
- Lubricants
- Osmotic agents ( e.g. milk of magnesia)
- Prucalopride – helps in the movement of stool along
the colon
- Plecanatide or linaclotide – regularises bowel
movements for people ailing with chronic constipation
- A health care professional might also suggest other strategies- biofeedback therapy, which helps a person retain their muscles, or the use of an enema, surgical removal of a blockage in a long-term chronic condition, such as IBS.
And now, we may perceive, for this to sound like a common issue, but only to remind one that it is far from normal. All the same, it is a condition that can have a weighty impact on routine life and have an enduring effect on one’s general health. Hence, it is of utmost importance to focus on healthcare and lead a healthy lifestyle, which will benefit in refining the quality of life.
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Constipation is a condition characterized by infrequent, difficult, or painful bowel movements with the passage of hard, dry stool. It often involves fewer than three bowel movements per week and can cause discomfort and strain during defecation.
Symptoms of constipation include:
- Infrequent bowel movements
- Straining to pass stool
- Hard and small stools
- Abdominal bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
Yes, lifestyle changes such as increased physical activity, better hydration, and a balanced diet rich in fiber can significantly improve bowel regularity and prevent constipation.