Last time readers stopped by, they learned about leaving gastroenteritis untreated and the threat of dehydration. Today, we are going to share about another common digestive issue that can be caused by a whole array of gastro health problems. Follow along today to find out we get to the root of and treat constipation.

In review:

In the most recent blog, we shared about the dangers of leaving gastroenteritis untreated. Because water is necessary for all of our organs to properly function, intense health issues arise. Electrolytes are vital in the function in nerve and muscle function.

As we shared, electrolytes are present in our blood, urine, plasma, and other bodily fluids. Just like any other good thing, too much is not the right amount. Excess vitamins and minerals can cause issues such as hyperkalemia and hypercalcemia.

Electrolyte imbalances can cause bad breath, lack of perspiration, and constipation. This leads us into today’s discussion. Constipation may be cause by a plethora of things, but today, we will share some of them.

Causes of constipation:

Some people deal with constipation almost every month. Symptoms of constipation include the following:

  • straining to have bowel movements
  • feeling as though there is a physical blockage which prevent bowel movements
  • feeling as though you cannot complete a bowel movement
  • lumpy or hard stools
  • passing fewer than three stools a week

Constipation is considered chronic when a person has two or more of these symptoms for the last three months. Contact your doctor if you have noticed unexplained and persistent changes in bowel movements. If you feel you have had these symptoms, contact our office.

Most often, constipation occurs when waste or stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract or cannot be eliminated from the rectum. This may cause the stool to be hard or dry. In turn, the bowel movement may be painful.

Blockages in the colon or rectum can slow or stop bowel movements. The following are examples of blockages in the colon or rectum:

  • narrowing of the colon, or bowel stricture
  • abdominal cancer that presses on the colon
  • rectal cancer
  • colon cancer
  • tiny tears in the skin around the anus, or anal fissure
  • rectum bulge through the back wall of the vagina, or rectocele

Neurological problems can affect any place of the body. Sometimes, they can affect the nerves that cause muscles in the colon and rectum to contract which moves the stool through the intestines. Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, a spinal chord injury, a stroke, and autonomic neuropathy are just a few examples of neurological problems that affect digestive organ functions.

Treatment for constipation:

Join us next time as we share more on the subject. Our doctors offer treatment for such issues, so do not suffer with constipation any longer. Experience what it is like to not have anxiety about bowel movements and to feel your best.

Remember to try exercising and drinking plenty of water until your appointment to get things moving. Make an appointment today to have normal bowel movements and a proper quality of life.

Have a Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Staff Writer