Constipation: what it is, symptoms and how to relieve

Constipation, popularly known as a trapped bowel, is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the difficulty of evacuating, dry stools and/or feeling of incomplete evacuation. Although not a serious condition in most cases, constipation can significantly impact quality of life.

So let’s talk more about the causes, symptoms and treatments of this problem.

Factors that contribute to constipation

Constipation can be triggered by several factors, the most common being:

1. Inadequate food

A fiber -poor diet is one of the main causes of the trapped bowel. Fibers play an essential role in intestinal functioning, as they increase the volume and humidity of the stool, facilitating their elimination. Ultra -processed foods, rich in fat and poor fiber, can aggravate the problem.

2. Low fluid intake

Proper hydration is critical to keeping soft fecal cake and facilitating evacuation. Insufficient water consumption can dry out feces, making their elimination more difficult.

3. Sedentary lifestyle

The lack of physical activity reduces intestinal motility, slowing the transit of feces by the intestines. Exercises such as walking, running and yoga stimulate peristaltic movements and help regularize the intestinal rhythm.

4. Stress and emotional factors

The intestine and the brain are closely linked, and stress can affect the functioning of the digestive tract. Situations of anxiety and tension can slow intestinal movements, favoring constipation.

Signs and symptoms of constipation

Symptoms of constipation may vary according to the duration and severity of the condition. The criteria of Rome 4, used to define functional constipation, state that the patient should have at least two of the following symptoms for three consecutive months, starting six months before diagnosis:

• Less than three evacuations per week
• Excessive effort when evacuating
• Hardened or cub -shaped feces (small and dry)
• Incomplete evacuation feeling
• Sensation of obstruction or anorectal blockade
• Need for manual maneuvers to evacuate

In addition, patients may have associated symptoms such as abdominal distension, abdominal pain and flatulence. In more severe cases, constipation can lead to complications such as anal fissures, hemorrhoids and fecal impact.

The diagnosis of constipation is primarily clinical, based on symptoms and patient history. However, complementary examinations may be required to exclude secondary causes and evaluate intestinal function.

Prevention and healthy habits

Adopting healthy habits is the best way to prevent constipation and maintain regular intestinal functioning. Some effective strategies include:

1. Proper fiber consumption

The daily recommendation of adult fibers ranges from 25 to 38 grams. Fiber -rich foods include:

• Fruits: papaya, plum, orange with bagasse
• Vegetables: kale, broccoli, carrot
• Legumes: beans, lentil
• Whole grains: oats, flaxseed, chia

2. Regular hydration

Ingestion of at least 2 liters of water per day is essential to prevent stool dryness. In addition, natural juices and caffeine teas can also contribute to hydration.

3. Practice of physical exercises

Moving regularly stimulates intestinal functioning. Aerobic activities and abdominal strengthening exercises are especially effective in preventing constipation.

4. Establishment of an intestinal routine

Trying to evacuate daily at the same time and not ignore the desire to go to the bathroom help regulate the intestinal rhythm. Creating this habit can improve the body’s response.

Impacts on special situations

Routine changes can affect bowel function, aggravating constipation. Some common situations include:

1. Travel and confinement

Long trips and confinement periods, such as those experienced during Covid-19 pandemic, can reduce physical activity and change eating habits, negatively impacting intestinal transit. During these situations, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet, ingest liquids and find ways to move, even in reduced spaces.

2. Use of medicines

Some medications may cause constipation, including:

• ORIPOID ANALGEASTICS
• Aluminum and iron -based antacids
• Antidepressants
• Diuretics

If continuous use of these medicines is required, medical follow -up and the adoption of preventive measures are fundamental.

3. Aging and hormonal changes

Aging may be associated with the reduction of intestinal motility, making constipation more common in the elderly. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy and menopause, can also influence the functioning of the intestine.

How to treat constipation

The treatment of constipation depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of underlying factors. It can be divided into clinical measures and, in refractory cases, surgical approach.

1. Clinical treatment

• Lifestyle changes, such as fiber -rich diet and exercise;
• Use of laxatives, indicated when lifestyle changes are not enough;
• Biofeedback and pelvic floor rehabilitation for patients with anorectal dysfunction, helping to re -educate the region’s muscles.

2. Surgical treatment

Surgery is considered only in severe cases and refractory to clinical treatment. Some indications include:

• Severe colonic inertia;
• Functional obstruction of the output tract;
• Megacolon.

Conclusion

Constipation is a common problem, but can be prevented and treated with simple lifestyle changes. Adoption of a fiber -rich diet, proper hydration and physical activity are the main strategies for maintaining the healthy gut.
In persistent cases, it is essential to seek medical advice for appropriate evaluation and treatment.

*Text written by doctor Antonio Couceiro Lopes (CRM 100656 SP | RQE 26013), Digestive Surgeon

See habits that make the health of your intestines worse and make you ‘stressed’

Bibliographic references

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This content was originally published in constipation: what it is, symptoms and how to relieve on CNN Brazil.

Source: CNN Brasil