Lifestyle changes can help stop constipation

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Constipation can be caused due to many factors although in most people no single cause can be found.

constipation though a very common problem can mean different things for different people.

it basically refers to a change in bowel habits explains dr vijay anand specialist internal medicine gastroentrology zulekha hospital dubai. “stools may be too hard or too small difficult to pass or infrequent (less than three times per week) or associated with a need to strain and a sense that the bowels are not empty” he explains.

constipation can be caused due to many factors although in most people no single cause can be found. advancing age and medications are common causes.

diagnosis is usually based upon symptoms and a physical examination. further testing including blood tests x-rays colonoscopy or more specialised testing may be necessary in some for example with a recent change in bowel habits blood in the stool weight loss or a family history of colon cancer.

above mentioned symptoms if present should prompt a visit to a doctor. again if the problem is severe or lasts long a doctor visit would be appropriate. treatment includes lifestyle changes with eating foods high in fibre like fruits and vegetables drinking enough water and physical activity.

medications including fibre preparations such as psyllium and osmolar laxatives. stimulant laxatives include senna and bisacodyl. enema preparations are for insertion into the rectum but many people do not like using them.

however lifestyle measures would be the first choice in any case.

— news?khaleejtimes.com