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According to a study two percent of the people in the United States deal with constipation symptoms at some point [1].
The most common people to be affected are women or the elderly. Although this medical problem is not normally serious, it can be painful and embarrassing for the sufferer.
Constipation – What is it?
Constipation is defined as time periods when bowel movements that are difficult or infrequent.
This can be difficult to diagnose because the frequency of bowel movements can vary between people.
Some individuals have them multiple times a day while other individuals only have a bowel movement once or twice a week.
Typically, doctors consider the medical problem to be constipation if someone has gone at least three days without a bowel movement.
Once this time period has passed, the stool will become more solid and difficult to pass.
If individuals have dealt with two or more of the following conditions for the last three months, then they are constipated [2].
- Two or less bowel movements in seven days
- Significant amount of straining at least ¼ of the time
- Unusually hard stools ¼ of the time
- Incomplete evacuation at least one out of four times
This condition may be caused by low water intake or not enough fiber. It may also be due to a change in routine or sudden stress.
Excessive dairy products or lack of activity can cause this problem as well.
How is Constipation Linked to Water Retention?
One of the most common causes of constipation is a lack of fluid. If someone does not drink enough liquids, then their body will not be able to operate properly.
It will start to remove excess flood from stools and store any remaining water in the body’s tissue.
This can cause a range of problems including water retention, dehydration, and constipation. In order to remedy the symptoms, individuals have to begin drinking more water and avoid diuretics.
How To Treat Constipation and The Resulting Weight Gain?
There are several different constipation treatment methods available. The easiest way to treat the problem is to drink more water and eat more fiber.
Fiber is used by the body to speed up the release of waste and fat. In addition, it can help the body to slow down the processing of food so more nutrients are absorbed.
Overall, this nutrient can help individuals lose weight and have normal bowel movements.
Although some people use Laxatives to treat constipation, this should be discouraged.
Over-the-counter laxatives can serve as a temporary fix, but over time it can cause the body to stop processing waste on its own.
If laxatives are used, milk of magnesia is one of the top recommendations because it is safer and cheaper than many alternatives.
Enemas can be used to mechanically stimulate the rectum. Unfortunately, they are not able to stimulate any stool that is still within the intestinal tract.
Physical intervention can also be done with the hands if the fecal matter is impacted. For less uncomfortable treatment, individuals can start a regular exercise program.
How is Constipation Diagnosed?
There are no major tests for constipation. Normally, a doctor can assess the patient’s medical history and symptoms.
The majority of patients will never end up with a serious medical problem from constipation.
If they have been constipated for at least two weeks, they should visit a doctor to see what underlying medical condition is causing the illness.
To figure out the underlying medical ailment, the doctor may perform a colonoscopy to see if something is obstructing the colon.
A barium study can also check for an obstruction. If they think that there is an underlying hormonal problem, they may order blood tests.
Despite these available tests, the majority of patients do not have a clear cause for their constipation.
What Other Treatment Options Are Available To Treat Constipation?
If the constipation is temporary, a laxative or herbal supplement can be a solution to constipation.
The best and healthiest method for treating constipation is to begin exercising, drink water and adopt some whole food addons like Balance Of Nature supplement, which are designed to promote optimal health and nutrition.
Eating balanced meals and plenty of fiber can also help cure constipation. It will also ensure that constipation does not return.
How Can Water Retention Supplements Help To Treat Constipation?
Water retention supplements can help solve some of the retention problems associated with constipation.
They can help support the natural functioning of the body so waste and liquids are removed properly.
In addition, drinking plenty of water can help cure both of these medical ailments.
Most of the cases will resolve without significant constipation treatment procedures [3].
If constipation occurs frequently, individuals should always discuss their concerns with a qualified medical practitioner.
Individuals can find water retention pills that can treat fluid retention that is associated with their constipation.
Before taking any supplement, they should always carefully review any associated side effects or contraindications.
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[1] Sonnenberg A, Koch TR. Epidemiology of constipation in the United States. Dis Colon Rectum. 1989 Jan;32(1):1-8. doi: 10.1007/BF02554713. PMID: 2910654.[2] Constipation: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/symptoms-causes/syc-20354253
[3] Medical Treatment of Constipation: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2780140/