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[Cellulitis] [Constipation]

CONSTIPATION

It is a common disorder of the digestive tract in which the bowels are unable to move regularly, or cause difficulty and pain during elimination. It is also known as a "compacted bowel".

TARGET GROUP:

Constipation can affect anyone. However, it is more common in children and older age groups.

TYPE OF DISEASE:

There are various types of constipation include: common constipation, chronic constipation, chronic idiopathic constipation, pregnancy related constipation, functional constipation, age related constipation, and travel related constipation.

 

SYMPTOMS:

There are many symptoms of constipation:

• Hard, dry and difficult bowel movements
• Hard and dry feces
• No bowel movement
• Incomplete bowel movement
• Infrequent bowel movement
• Straining in moving bowels
• Pain in the abdomen
• Swelling and bloating in the abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Malaise
• Weight loss
• Diarrhoea

 

AFFECTED AREA:

The organs affected by constipation are the digestive tract, colon, rectum, and anus.

CAUSES:

Causes of constipation may be dietary, hormonal, a side effect of medications, and anatomical. Main causes of constipation are hardening of the feces, insufficient fluids and fiber in the diet, dehydration, sedentary lifestyle, stress, ignoring the nature’s call, medicines, paralysis, hypothyroidism, antidepressants, constriction of the rectum or intestine, strictures, tumors, or other illnesses.

 

RISK TO THE SUFFERER:

Complications include haemorrhoids, caused by straining to have a bowel movement, or anal fissures. As a result, rectal bleeding may occur, appearing as bright red streaks on the surface of the stool. Sometimes straining causes rectal prolapse in which a small amount of intestinal lining is pushed out from the anal opening. Constipation may also cause faecal impaction, rectal, and uterine hernia.

TREATMENT:

It is easier to prevent constipation than to treat it. Increase fiber in the diet such as vegetables, fresh fruits, dried fruits, and whole wheat, bran, or oatmeal cereals. Laxatives can be taken but not for long periods as one can become dependent on them. Enemas can be used to provide a form of mechanical stimulation in severe cases of constipation. Never ignore the urge to go to the toilet. Avoid worries, stress, and anxiety. Rare cases may require surgery. Drinking plenty of fluids will help to pass the stool.