Constipation called violation of the usual functioning of the intestines and involve many different manifestations. This may be too hard or too lean chair need to push, rare (less than 3 times per week) or defecation sensation of incomplete emptying of the intestine.
Constipation - this is a very common problem. Many factors can trigger the development of constipation, but often at the same time, there are several reasons.
Constipation is more common in older people.
constipation The diagnosis is based on patient interview and examination by the attending physician. It is important to inform your doctor about medications taken on a regular basis, because some medications can trigger constipation.
Most likely, you will need to diagnose rectal examination. In this case, the doctor inserts a finger into the patient's rectum to detect blood, tumors and various anomalies.
Examination will depend on the characteristics of blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, stories malignant neoplasms in the intestine or relatives suddenly appeared difficulties in bowel movement.
Diagnosis involves blood tests, X-rays of the bowel, colonoscopy and other events.
When should you seek medical care?
Most people can cope with constipation at home. However, you should consult a doctor immediately if the following symptoms:
- The sudden change in the usual bowel movement mode;
- Constipation, which lasts for more than three weeks;
- Pronounced symptoms;
- Associated symptoms (blood on the toilet paper, weight loss, fever or weakness).
Treatment
The treatment of constipation involves changes in mode and habits, consumption of food with a sufficient amount of fiber, the use of laxatives and enemas.
Usually people use these activities for a few days and when they go to the doctor inefficiency.
Changing the habits and
The intestine starts to become active after a meal, so it was to be expected after eating stool. Every time people ignore such a natural signal, it becomes weaker and weaker. It is important to learn to notice the small urge to defecate, and then will form good habits. In the morning, except for breakfast, to activate the intestinal beneficial effect caffeinated beverages.
Increasing the amount of fiber in the diet
The recommended daily dose of dietary fibers is 20 - 35 g. To calculate the useful special table of content of dietary fiber in foods.
A lot of fruits and vegetables have a beneficial effect on intestinal motor ability. The greatest effect was observed on citrus and plums use. Various cereals and cereal grains that contain membrane is also considered an important source of dietary fiber.
Side effects of dietary fiber
Drinking large amounts of fiber can trigger bloating. Recommend starting with small doses of dietary fiber, achieving a stool softener and an increase in its multiplicities.
laxatives
If diet and regimen does not help, use laxatives. The choice of laxative depends on the mechanism of action, safety and physician preferences.
Laxatives, stool bulking:
- Alimentary fiber;
- methylcellulose;
- calcium polycarbophil;
The dose of these funds to increase gradually to avoid bloating and abdominal pain. Furthermore, bulking agents feces, require the use of additional amounts of liquid.
osmotic laxatives
By osmotic laxatives include:
- polyethylene glycol;
- lactulose;
- Sorbitol.
Polyethylene glycol favorably with lactulose and sorbitol that causes bloating.
saline laxatives
By saline laxatives include tools such as hydroxide and magnesium citrate. They are about the same as the osmotic laxatives.
Laxatives, stimulating the bowel
These tools include the well-known senna and bisacodyl. Sadly, many people misuse of stimulant laxatives. The use of these agents in large doses over a long time may cause various side effects (e.g., to reduce the level of potassium in the blood). These laxatives should be used cautiously. At this moment there is no evidence that stimulants can damage the bowel and provoke the development of tumors.
Means for oral administration, suppositories or enemas?
Typically, candles and enemas are much faster, but many people avoid using them. However, enemas (especially ready pharmacy solutions) can help where other means prove ineffective.
What laxatives do not recommend to use?
Some popular laxatives can be dangerous. These include softening agents and natural products.
As the softening agents have long used mineral oil. This is a cheap and effective means, but unfortunately has serious side effects which do not allow to recommend it as a laxative. For example, there are cases of severe inflammation of the lungs in case of accidental contact of vaseline oil in the respiratory tract.
Natural herbal preparations can be quite effective, but their composition may be a little predictable.
Traditionally used in the home such as laxatives enemas with detergent or hydrogen peroxide so strongly irritate the intestines, which can be hazardous to health.
If any doubt in the effectiveness of laxatives or the appearance of side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
