Addressing Constipation: Home Remedies and When to Seek Medical Help
Prolonged Bowel Movements: Duration, Symptoms, and Remedies
Constipation, a common digestive issue affecting around 16 in every 100 adults in the United States, can often be managed with simple home remedies. These remedies focus on dietary adjustments, physical activity, and lifestyle changes to help soften stool and stimulate bowel movements.
Home Remedies for Constipation
Incorporating a nutritious, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help prevent constipation. Eating high fiber foods, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough physical activity are also essential. It's important to note that these changes should be implemented gradually to allow the body to adjust[1].
Other home remedies include consuming foods containing probiotics, such as yogurt, and avoiding foods with a high fat content, which can slow down digestion. Additionally, adjusting body position when on the toilet can make it easier to pass stool[1].
When to Seek Medical Attention
While home remedies can often lead to noticeable improvements within 1-2 weeks, it's crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. If constipation does not improve with dietary and lifestyle changes after 4-6 weeks, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical evaluation[2][4].
Severe symptoms, such as blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, or lower back pain, should also prompt a visit to the doctor[3][4]. Sudden changes in bowel habits after the age of 50 should also be evaluated by a healthcare provider[2].
Medical Treatments for Persistent Constipation
In cases of chronic constipation, a doctor may recommend prescription-strength medication, such as linaclotide (Linzess), plecanatide (Trulance), lubiprostone (Amitiza), or prucalopride (Motegrity)[4]. In some instances, biofeedback therapy may be recommended to retrain muscles that manage bowel movements[1].
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary if the muscles do not work correctly or if there is a blockage[1].
In conclusion, while many cases of constipation can be managed with home remedies, if symptoms persist or worsen, it's essential to seek medical consultation to rule out more serious conditions.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Constipation. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/symptoms-causes/syc-20368367
[2] NHS. (2021). Constipation. [online] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/
[3] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Constipation. [online] Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16757-constipation
[4] American College of Gastroenterology. (2021). Constipation. [online] Available at: https://patients.gi.org/topics/constipation/
