constipation Today it has become a common problem. Almost everyone suffers from constipation at some point in their life. Constipation is rare bowel movementDifficulty passing stools, hard and dry bowel movements, and inability to have regular bowel movements on a daily basis. While you may be aware of some of its causes, to know what actually causes constipation and how to get relief from it, we turn to Dr. Bir Singh Sehrawat, Director and HOD, Gastroenterology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Faridabad. Let’s talk to.

According to Dr. Sehrawat, the causes of constipation are usually bad Dietary habits Such as consuming too much protein and fat in the diet, consuming less fiber or fibrous food in the diet. “Along with that, not drinking enough water or being dehydrated, lack of exercise are some of the causes of constipation,” he says, adding that there are some gastrointestinal (GI) disorders that can cause constipation as well as certain medications.

Other causes of constipation, says Dr Sehrawat, are anal fissure (a crack or tear in the lining of the anus), chronic kidney failure, colon or rectal cancer, diabetes, depression, hypercalcemia (abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood), hypothyroidism. (underactive thyroid gland), irritable bowel syndrome and stress. “In some cases, lack of good nerve and muscle function in the intestine can also cause constipation. When a person undergoes surgery like gastric bypass surgery, i.e. stomach surgery, the person is likely to suffer from constipation. From,” he tells us.

A person suffering from constipation may experience symptoms such as increased difficulty and strain while passing stools, or fewer bowel movements. “Other symptoms include abdominal pain, stomach cramps, bloating and nausea, and loss of appetite. This condition is commonly reported in the elderly population. However, today it is common among all due to poor dietary habits and unhealthy lifestyle. Affecting people across age groups,” says Dr. Sehrawat, advising that one should consult a doctor when one experiences unexplained and persistent changes in your bowel habits.

The patient is advised to undergo a physical examination to identify the type of constipation. “Information about the patient’s medical history is also collected. Blood tests are done for thyroid hormone to detect hypothyroidism and calcium to detect excess parathyroid hormone. abdominal x-ray It is also recommended to visualize large amounts of material in the colon. The patient is advised to undergo tests like barium enema, colonic transit (marker) study, defecography, ano-rectal motility study, magnetic resonance imaging defecography and colonic motility study,” says Dr. Sehrawat.

According to Dr. Sehrawat, here’s how to reduce the risk of constipation:

• Eat fiber-rich foods (such as beans, bran cereals, fresh fruits, raw vegetables, rice and whole-grain bread) as it increases the weight of your stool and speeds up its passage through your intestines.
• Avoid alcohol or smoking.
• Get moderate exercise because physical activity helps increase muscle activity in your intestines.
• Don’t ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
• As per doctor’s advice, you can also take fiber supplements to add bulk to your stool.
• If you are suffering from constipation, bloody diarrhea, weight loss, or have a history of colon cancer in your family, it is advisable to get tested. colonoscopy Done after 40-45 years of age.

“If diet and lifestyle modifications If the patient does not respond well, medications or surgery may be recommended. If you have tried other treatments and your chronic constipation is due to an obstruction, rectocele, anal fissure or stricture, surgery may be an option,” concludes Dr. Sehrawat.

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