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Constipation, also called constipation, can be characterized by the absence or decrease in the frequency of bowel movements during the week, which can favor the appearance of some symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort, harder stools and dryness, frequent moodiness and irritability, and the need to make a lot of effort to have a bowel movement.
These changes are usually the result of decreased bowel movements due to a low-fiber diet, lack of physical activity and little water consumption, in addition to being a consequence, in some cases, of psychological changes, such as anxiety and stress, for example.
In the presence of signs and symptoms of constipation, it is interesting to change some habits, such as starting physical activity and increasing the consumption of foods rich in fiber. In some cases, it may also be interesting to consult a gastroenterologist and a nutritionist so that the cause of constipation is identified and a more adequate food plan is indicated to increase the amount of stool and promote intestinal transit.
Symptoms of Constipation
Constipation is a very uncomfortable situation and is characterized by a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements during the week, which can be accompanied by some symptoms, the main ones being:
- Too much effort to evacuate;
- Very hard and dry stools;
- Abdominal swelling;
- Bad mood;
- Increased gas;
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation.
In addition, due to the dryness of the stools and the effort to evacuate, it is possible that the presence of blood in the stools or on the toilet paper may be noticed, which may be indicative of the appearance of hemorrhoids due to constipation. Know how to recognize the symptoms of constipation.
How the diagnosis is made
The diagnosis of constipation is made from the evaluation of the signs and symptoms presented by the person, it is not necessary to consult a doctor. However, in some cases, it may be interesting to consult a gastroenterologist for an assessment of the symptoms, taking into account the person's habits and lifestyle, so that it is possible to indicate the most appropriate treatment.
Main causes
Constipation occurs as a result of decreased bowel movements and dry stools, which can be favored by some situations, such as:
- Diet low in fiber;
- Increased consumption of processed foods;
- Low water consumption during the day;
- Sedentary lifestyle;
- Not going to the bathroom when you feel like it, which is more common in children;
- Psychological changes such as stress, anxiety or depression, for example.
In addition, the excessive use of laxatives can also favor constipation, since the gastrointestinal mucosa can become irritated and have the villi change over time, which interferes with its functioning, as well as favor the occurrence of dependence, so that the intestine starts to work only if these drugs are used. See more about causes of constipation.
Constipation is also a common situation to happen in pregnancy and can be favored by the baby's development and progressive increase in the pressure of the uterus on the intestine, which makes bowel movements more difficult to happen, resulting in constipation. Learn how to identify and treat constipation in pregnancy.
How the treatment is done
The treatment for constipation aims to improve intestinal transit and increase the volume of the fecal cake, and changes in lifestyle and eating habits are indicated for this purpose. Thus, it is recommended that the person practice physical activity daily, as well as consume at least 2 liters of water a day and consume foods rich in fiber at every meal.
1. Remedies
The use of medication for constipation can be indicated by the gastroenterologist when changing habits is not enough to stimulate the improvement of intestinal transit. In this way, the use of medicines such as Lacto purga, Naturetti or Almeida Prado 46, for example, may be indicated to increase the volume of the fecal bolus and bowel movements, facilitating the exit of feces. See more about constipation remedies.
2. Feed
A diet for constipation should be rich in fiber, as it favors greater hydration of the feces as well as stimulating bowel movements. Thus, it is recommended to increase the consumption of vegetables, fruits, vegetables, cereals, probiotic foods, whole foods, seeds and grains. Check out a menu option for constipation.
