Controlling Your Bowels
It’s not unusual to suffer from constipation – a condition where bowel movements become difficult or infrequent. While some people believe that less frequent bowel movements are a sign of health, this is not always the case. If more than a week passes with little to no bowel movement, it may be time to call your doctor.
Symptoms of Constipation:
Recognising constipation early can help in managing it effectively. Look out for these symptoms:
- Hard stool
- Straining to pass stool
- A feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement
- Spending over 10 minutes trying to pass a stool
- Abdominal or lower back pain during bowel movements
If any of these symptoms persist for more than a few days, it’s advisable to contact your GP. While constipation is usually caused by a poor diet, lack of exercise, or dehydration, persistent constipation could be a sign of an underlying condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or even colon cancer.
What Causes Constipation?
- Low-fibre diet: Fibre helps to soften stools, making them easier to pass.
- Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can harden stools.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Regular exercise stimulates digestion.
For most people, simple lifestyle changes can help relieve constipation. However, in severe cases, it’s essential to consult with a doctor for further evaluation.
How to Prevent and Relieve Constipation:
- Increase Fibre Intake: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can improve bowel movements.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can help keep your digestive system in check.
- Over-the-Counter Remedies: If lifestyle changes don’t work, medications like lactulose, milk of magnesia, or stool softeners may be prescribed by your doctor.
If you’re pregnant and dealing with constipation, your doctor may recommend specific medications to help soften stools, such as lactulose.
Severe Constipation: When to See a Doctor
In cases where constipation doesn’t respond to dietary changes or over-the-counter remedies, your doctor may recommend further tests, such as a colonoscopy, to rule out conditions like colon cancer or diverticulosis. A colonoscopy is a routine outpatient procedure that allows your doctor to examine your colon for any abnormalities.
For cases involving strictures in the rectum, surgery may be necessary to remove blockages.
Diarrhoea: Causes and Treatment
On the other end of the spectrum is diarrhoea, where stools become loose or watery. Diarrhoea can result from viral or bacterial infections, food intolerances, or certain medications.
Symptoms of Diarrhoea Include:
- Frequent loose or watery stools
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dehydration
If you experience diarrhoea, it's crucial to stay hydrated and replenish lost electrolytes. Diarrhoea can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in children and older adults.
Common Causes of Diarrhoea:
- Viral infections (such as rotavirus)
- Bacterial infections (Salmonella, E. coli)
- Food allergies
- Side effects of medications like antibiotics
How to Treat Diarrhoea:
- Over-the-counter medications: Loperamide (Imodium) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can help manage symptoms.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, and consider oral rehydration solutions to replenish lost electrolytes.
- Avoid certain foods: Fatty foods, dairy products, and sugary items can aggravate diarrhoea.
Diet Tips for Digestive Health:
Maintaining a healthy diet is essential to prevent both constipation and diarrhoea. Here are some tips:
- Eat a balanced diet: Include plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Hydrate: Aim to drink 6-8 glasses of water daily.
- Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise a day to promote digestive health.
- Limit refined sugars and fats: These can contribute to digestive issues.
When to Seek Medical Help for Diarrhoea:
If diarrhoea persists for more than two days or is accompanied by severe dehydration, bloody stools, or high fever, contact your doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Constipation and diarrhoea are common digestive problems that can often be managed with lifestyle changes. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly are the best preventive measures. However, persistent symptoms may indicate a more severe condition, so it’s essential to seek medical advice if needed.
Feel free to explore our full range of incontinence solutions here!
Bladder and bowel incontinence may be caused by conditions which can be treated medically. Please consult your physician for medical advice and guidance.
