Too many Americans deal with issues that can be treated. To continue along in the series, today’s blog will share the ways a patient can avoid developing chronic constipation. New and returning readers, continue along to learn more.

Chronic constipation:

In our most recent blog, we shared some causes of chronic constipation. Knowing the root of the issue is important. If there core cause of the gastro problem is not discovered, the health issue cannot be resolved.

There are certain factors that put a person at higher-risk for chronic constipation. The following factors may increase the risk:

  • eating a diet low in fiber
  • getting little to no physical activity on a daily basis
  • being a woman
  • being an older adult
  • not drinking enough water
  • taking certain medications such as sedatives, opioid pain medications, antidepressants, medications which lower blood pressure
  • having a mental health conditions such as depression
  • having an eating disorder

Complications of chronic constipation:

Treating chronic constipation is very important. Some people believe constipation to be genetic or fine if left ignored. However, if left untreated the following issues may occur:

  • fecal impaction, or stool that cannot be expelled
  •  hemorrhoids, or swollen veins in the anus
  • anal fissure, or torn skin in the anus
  • rectal prolapse, or intestine that protrudes from the anus

Hemorrhoids may recognized by the difficulty while passing a bowel movement. Straining while passing a bowel movement may cause swelling in the veins in and around the anus. A large or hard stool can cause tiny tears. The result of these tiny tears is called an anal fissure.

Chronic constipation may cause an accumulation of hardened stool which gets stuck in the intestines. The accumulation of fecal matter is called fecal impaction. After straining to have a bowel movement, the intestines can actually protrude from the anus.

When the intestines are protruding from the anus, it is called a rectal prolapse. To prevent chronic constipation, read our past blogs for valuable information and tips. Furthermore, continue on.

Avoid developing chronic constipation:

Try to implement the following tips and healthy habits to avoid developing chronic constipation:

  • manage stress- reduce stress or find what makes dealing with stress manageable
  • do not ignore the urge to pass stool
  • create a regular schedule for bowel movements, such as after breakfast and dinner
  • drink plenty of fluids, the majority being water
  • eat fewer foods with low amounts of fiber
  • avoid or reduce the amount of processed foods, dairy, and meat you eat
  • stay as active as possible and avoid being sedentary for longer than thirty minutes if your physical condition allows

Come back next week as we share treatments for chronic constipation. Implement today’s tips to avoid developing chronic constipation. Prepare your health for all the fun that is to be had this summer! Get scheduled at Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida today.

Staff Writer