Table of contents:
- What are the symptoms and signs of constipation?
- Be careful if constipation is not treated right away
- 1. The wound around the anus
- 2. Hemorrhoids arise
- 3. Rectal prolapse
- 4.Alvi incontinence (sudden discharge)
- What to do if you have constipation?
- 1. Find out the cause of constipation
- 2. Bowel training
- 3. Increase the amount of fluid intake and a high-fiber diet
- 4. Making lifestyle changes
- 5. Consult a doctor or take laxatives
Sometimes due to activities that are too dense, you often delay defecating (BAB). Even though the infrequent CHAPTER schedule can be called constipation. Initially, constipation is asymptomatic, so you may only notice when a more serious condition develops.
What happens if constipation is left alone? The following is my explanation about the consequences of constipation that are not treated immediately.
What are the symptoms and signs of constipation?
Constipation or difficulty defecating is decreased bowel movements due to disruption of bowel function. You are considered constipated if you have had at least two of the following symptoms in the last 3 to 6 months:
- Reduced frequency of defecating to three times a week or less
- Straining at least 25% of the defecation process
- Stool becomes hard for at least 25% of the defecation process
- Feeling incomplete when defecating is at least 25% of the defecation process
- Feeling that there are obstacles when defecating at least 25% of the defecation process
- Requires finger assistance to pull stool during defecation
There are various causes of constipation, such as structural disorders of the large intestine, certain disease conditions (diabetes, hypothyroidism, Parkinson's disease), pregnancy, or being on certain medications (pain medications, antihypertensive drugs, anti-convulsive drugs, etc.).
Lifestyle and diet also affect the onset of constipation symptoms. Here are the types of lifestyles and diets that can trigger constipation:
- A diet high in meat and dairy products
- A diet high in processed foods or consuming too many foods high in fat and carbohydrates
- Low fiber diet
- Not fulfilled daily fluid intake
- Too much alcohol or caffeine consumption
- Rarely do physical activity
Be careful if constipation is not treated right away
Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints in the world. Although the frequency of constipation tends to be experienced a lot (about 2-28% of the world's population), this complaint is often not realized until finally the patient feels that there is interference with the anus or rectum.
In fact, constipation needs to be treated immediately. If constipation is left unchecked and not given further therapy, it will cause symptoms like the following.
1. The wound around the anus
Sores around the anus (anal fissures) can occur if you have prolonged constipation. Hard stool due to constipation can irritate the anus. Usually the initial symptoms are marked by complaints of wounds that cause bleeding, pain, and itching around the anus.
2. Hemorrhoids arise
Too long straining when constipated can trigger hemorrhoids or hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can occur when the stool becomes hard and there is increased pressure in the stomach when pushing.
This causes obstruction of the veins around the rectum. The disturbed flow of the veins causes the formation of vein dams which are commonly called hemorrhoids.
3. Rectal prolapse
Citing the journal Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery, Rectal prolapse is a condition when the rectum (part of the large intestine) exits through the anus. Conditions that cause pressure in the stomach to increase, such as straining during prolonged constipation, are associated with a risk of rectal prolapse.
4.Alvi incontinence (sudden discharge)
Constipation is a risk factor for alvi incontinence. According to a study on the control of alvi incontinence in the same journal, this condition is the inability to hold bowel movements, so that the stool is unconsciously passed out by itself. Yes, constipation accompanied by hemorrhoids and rectal prolapse can actually increase the risk of alvi incontinence.
Stool that is stuck and hardens due to constipation causes liquid stool to eventually flow around the hard stool.
What to do if you have constipation?
There are several ways you can do at home to treat or prevent constipation, such as:
1. Find out the cause of constipation
If you experience constipation because you are taking certain drugs, stop the drug immediately. If you get the drug from your doctor, consult your doctor to adjust the dose or change the drug.
2. Bowel training
This is a type of exercise that can be done by scheduling a bowel movement at the same time every day. It is recommended that you defecate in the morning and 30 minutes after eating. It is hoped that with this exercise, you can get used to and sensitive to the sensation of wanting to defecate and not hold or delay defecating.
3. Increase the amount of fluid intake and a high-fiber diet
The recommended fluid intake needed is 2 liters per day or the equivalent of 8 glasses per day and fiber intake is 20-35 grams per day. You can get fiber through a diet high in fruit, vegetables, or whole grains.
4. Making lifestyle changes
To deal with constipation, you are also advised to change your lifestyle. For example, doing physical activity and regular exercise for at least 30 minutes every day to encourage bowel movements. Also avoid consuming alcohol and caffeine so as not to worsen constipation.
5. Consult a doctor or take laxatives
If you have taken these steps, but there is still no improvement in constipation symptoms, then you should further consult with your doctor. The doctor will perform various tests to further evaluate the cause of constipation.
You can also take laxatives containing bisacodyl, which can help improve bowel movements or with lactulose, which can soften stools. Some of these drugs are available in various preparations, such as tablets, syrups, or suppositories.
Follow all directions on the product packaging. If you have any questions, consult your doctor.
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