Chronic constipation is simply defined as a situation in which one cannot pass stool for 3-4 or longer. In the case that stool is passed, it comes out in small quantities with great difficulty and may be accompanied by droplets of blood.
If you find yourself in such a situation, here are some effective measures you can take to remedy the problem:
- Diet – The food we eat greatly affects our body’s functioning. These foods can be useful or harmful to our body based on when and how we ingest them. For one suffering from chronic constipation, a change in diet can go a long way to ease the symptoms. Figure out which foods suit your body best. Changing your diet should involve drinking more water, eating fiber-rich foods, avoiding junk food and food low in fiber, and reducing your caffeine intake. Reduce your intake of high-fat foods but if you must eat them, make sure to add some roughage to your daily food intake.
- Change your lifestyle – It is easy to get stuck in habits without paying attention to how they affect the body and its functioning. Daily habits and patterns greatly affect the functioning of the human body. If you are suffering from chronic constipation, a simple change in lifestyle could be an important step towards a solution. Try new habits such as:
- Exercising – This regulates the human body.
- Using the bathroom right as the urge hits – Many times, when the urge to pass stool hits, it is ignored and the opportunity is lost. In many cases, such an opportunity does not come again and can result in the hardening of the stool.
- Be Consistent – Consistency is the key to success. Try using the bathroom at the same time every morning. At this time, the colonic motor activity is high. Take meals at the same time each day as another way to combat chronic constipation.
- Get enough sleep and rest each day. Achieve a relaxed mind.
- Use of Laxatives – These are oral drugs taken (synthetic or herbal), as well as certain foods, for the sole purpose of passing stool. Doctors can prescribe a suitable laxative for someone suffering from chronic constipation. Laxatives soften stool to for easy passing through the bowels without any discomfort. Over 80% of the world’s population uses laxatives for chronic constipation as they provide the best solution.
The type of laxatives used depends on how severe the constipation is and on the patient’s physical condition. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, those recovering from surgery, or who may have a heart condition should take extra care and consult a physician before using laxatives.
- Get acquainted with constipation – Knowing the do’s and don’ts of constipation gives clear insight into how to manage different situations. In severe cases, it is important to understand the body’s symptoms and to consult a doctor with any questions or concerns.
These four basic principles are simple and perfect ways to bring an end to chronic constipation. To prevent severe consequences, it is important to stay informed and pay attention to the body’s signals.
SOURCE: https://www.dietvsdisease.org/chronic-constipation-remedies-for-relief/
