What is chronic constipation? Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems for many people. Generally, constipation is defined as difficulty or irregular bowel movements, but there are several criteria required to be diagnosed with chronic constipation. This article explains in detail the symptoms, causes, and treatments of chronic constipation.
1. Constipation Diagnosis Criteria
To determine whether you have constipation, you should check if two or more of the following six symptoms persist for more than three months.
- Do you have bowel movements less than twice a week?
- Do you have hard stools?
- Do you feel like stool remains after a bowel movement?
- Do you need excessive force when defecating?
- Do you feel like something is stuck when defecating?
- Do you need to put your hand in your anus?
Temporary constipation that does not meet the above conditions is not something to worry about, but if you are diagnosed with chronic constipation, it is important to find out the cause and treatment.
2. Main Causes of Chronic Constipation
Chronic constipation can be a sign of a serious disease such as colon cancer. In particular, you should definitely see a doctor if you experience the following 6 "red flag" symptoms:
- Blood in stool or blood found in a stool test
- Family history (colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, etc.)
- Sudden anemia symptoms
- Weight loss of more than 5 kg in the past 1-2 months
- Sudden constipation in people over 50
- Thinner stools
In addition, there are various causes, such as old age, women, stress, dehydration, low fiber intake, lack of exercise, and taking certain medications.
3. Improve lifestyle habits to relieve constipation
The following habits are important to prevent and improve constipation in daily life.
- Dietary fiber intake: Eating high-fiber foods such as pumpkin and sweet potatoes helps smooth bowel movement.
- Drink enough water: It is recommended to drink more than 1 liter of water every day.
- Exercise: Aerobic exercise such as jumping rope stimulates bowel movement and is effective in improving constipation.
- Use of a stool: Using a stool when defecating makes the anus and rectum straight, which makes defecation smooth.
4. Treatment of chronic constipation
If chronic constipation does not improve with lifestyle changes, drug treatment can be considered. The type of drug varies depending on the type of constipation.
- Normal transit constipation: Use osmotic laxatives to soften the stool and help defecation.
- Slow transit constipation: Use bulk-forming laxatives to increase the volume of the stool and move it quickly.
- Evacuation disorder constipation: If symptoms of residual stool persist, additional tests are conducted to plan treatment.
- Sometimes, enemas or suppositories are used, but caution is required as long-term use can cause mucosal damage and electrolyte imbalance.
5. Conclusion
Chronic constipation can appear for various causes and symptoms, and some can be signs of serious diseases. If it is not resolved with lifestyle changes, seek professional help for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect constipation, take action quickly to continue living a healthier life.
