How to Battle Constipation
Everyone experiences constipation or irregular bowel movements on occasion, but when you are regularly straining to go to the bathroom, suffering from stomach pain, having small or hard stools, or feeling like everything is not coming out, it is time to seek help and relief. Bowel movements can vary significantly from person to person – from a couple times per week to several times per day – but once you reach the three-day mark, it is often cause for concern.
Causes of constipation range from lack of water and fiber in the diet, certain medications, stress, changes in exercise/diet, irritable bowel disorder, ignoring the urge to go, pregnancy and aging, among others.
Typically, constipation will resolve on its own. In addition to talking with your doctor who can address any underlying issues, you can increase your intake of water and fruits and vegetables, including prunes, while decreasing dairy and adding in daily exercise. Laxatives should always be a last resort.
“Constipation can be painful and uncomfortable, but it is generally easy to treat with diet and exercise modifications. However, if you have blood in your stool, are losing weight without dieting or having severe pain, it is important to seek treatment right away,” said Dr. Amy Hammers.
