Constipation

What is Constipation?

Constipation can basically be defined as less or less than normal bowel movements. Constipation, also known as constipation, is a condition that happens to almost everyone once in their lives.

Constipation is not seen as one of the serious health problems, but it causes patients to feel uncomfortable. On the other hand, the normal cycle of human bowel movements is variable. Some people may go to the toilet 2 or more times a day, while others may go once a week and this is considered normal.

On the other hand, not going to the toilet for more than 3 days can cause problems. Because 3. After a day, it is even more difficult to go to the toilet due to the hardening of the stool. For this reason, going to the toilet less than 3 times a week is considered constipation.

What are the Symptoms of Constipation?

Constipation symptoms can take many forms. Among these, the most common symptoms are as follows:

• Fewer trips to the toilet,
• Patients have difficulty using the toilet,
• No feeling of complete bowel emptying,
• Hard stools,
• The stool is too small,
• Belly bloating
• Feeling of pressure on the abdomen to empty the intestines,
• The feeling of helping with the finger,

On the other hand, in some cases, patients need to see a doctor as soon as possible. These symptoms are as follows.

• Sudden onset of constipation
• Sudden cramps
• Not being able to go to the toilet at all
• Inability to pass gas

On the other hand, a doctor should be consulted if constipation has just started or if the measures taken for constipation are not sufficient and if the following symptoms are present.

• Blood in the stool
• Involuntary weight loss
• Bowel movements cause pain
• Constipation lasting longer than two weeks
• Significant changes in the color, size and shape of the stool

What Causes Constipation?

The biggest cause of constipation is often lifestyle. Changes in diet or exercise in daily life are the biggest factor in constipation. On the other hand, the lack of sufficient fiber and water in the diet of patients also causes constipation. The fact that patients do not move enough is one of the lifestyle factors that trigger constipation.

Patients constantly postponing their toilet needs is also among the causes of constipation. In addition, patients going through a stressful period also inhibit bowel movements.

Constipation can also be caused by the use of certain medications. These reasons include primarily laxatives. On the other hand, iron medications, antidepressants, strong painkillers, antacid medications containing calcium or aluminum cause constipation.

Other factors that cause constipation include pregnancy, irritable bowel syndrome, eating disorders, problems in the nerves and muscles in the digestive system, Parkinson's disease, colon cancer, multiple sclerosis, thyroid diseases.

Constipation in Pregnancy

Changes in the lifestyle of women during pregnancy, as well as changes in their hormones, can cause constipation. On the other hand, the use of iron supplements by women in this period is also one of the causes of constipation.

The diet of pregnant women and especially irregular nutrition are among the first causes of constipation. On the other hand, weight gain and decreased movement of pregnant women are also among the causes of constipation.

Constipation in Infants

There are many causes of constipation in infants. Structural abnormalities are at the top of these causes. Too much milk consumption by babies can also result in constipation. Constantly feeding babies solid foods can also cause constipation. Psychological problems can also cause constipation in babies.

What are the Treatment Methods for Constipation?

Treatment of constipation can usually be easily solved with changes in lifestyle without the need for prescription drugs. Lifestyle changes include a diet richer in fiber, drinking more water and exercising.

On the other hand, some foods help to increase bowel movements. These include dried fruits such as figs and apricots, beets, celery, leeks, legumes, avocados, apples, grapes, white meat, fish, thyme and olive oil.

On the other hand, patients also need to regulate their toilet habits. First of all, patients should not ignore their toilet urges. In addition, they should not be interrupted when they go to the toilet and they should do so in a stress-free manner.

Medicines that can be used for constipation include laxatives. However, it is necessary to establish that it is really necessary to use this way, which is the fastest solution to constipation. A doctor should be consulted for the use of this medicine.

If there is ongoing constipation, then a doctor should be consulted. Because the presence of other diseases that cause constipation should be checked.

Foods Good for Constipation

Feeding with food groups that are good for constipation is one of the first preferred methods in the treatment of constipation.

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Water is one of the best nutrients to keep the intestines working properly. To ensure regular bowel movements, it is necessary to consume 2 liters of water a day, excluding tea, coffee or fruit juice. In this way, both the intestines will work regularly and the stool will soften.

Vegetables Rich in Fiber

One of the most effective methods for relieving constipation is fiber foods. For this reason, it is the second recommendation recommended in the treatment of constipation. Constipation can be prevented by adding fiber-rich foods to patients' meals. Foods rich in fiber include green leafy vegetables, brussels sprouts, artichokes, cabbage, broccoli and leeks.

Fruits

The third recommended food group recommended in the treatment of constipation is vegetables. The fruits chosen should also be fruits that are rich in fiber. These include peaches, blackberries, apples, pineapples, pears and raspberries. In addition, dried fruits are also among the food groups used in the treatment of constipation. Consuming dried fruits such as apricots and plums on an empty stomach in the morning and then drinking warm water will activate the intestines.

Olive Oil

Regular consumption of olive oil, which has an important place in the digestive system, ensures better absorption of the nutrients consumed.

Legumes

Legumes are effective in softening the intestines and relieving constipation. It makes going to the toilet easier. However, it is a food group that should be consumed in sufficient amounts as excessive consumption will cause gas and bloating in the intestines.

Grains

Oats, corn flour, whole grains and rye are among the food groups that reduce constipation, provided that they are unsalted and fat-free.

Actions Good for Constipation

In general, exercise accelerates the passage of food through the intestines. Exercises speed up the heartbeat and breathing. This also stimulates bowel contractions and facilitates defecation.

In addition to the type of exercise performed, the time of exercise is also extremely important in preventing constipation. Exercise should be avoided for at least one hour after eating. Because, within this one hour, blood flow is directed to the digestive system. If you exercise during this time, blood is diverted to the muscles and heart and the digestive process suffers.

There is no need to perform complex movements or sports to prevent constipation. Instead, walking for 10 to 15 minutes will be enough for digestion. In addition, regular running, brisk walking, stretching, yoga, dancing, swimming and aerobics are among the sports that can be preferred for constipation.