Functional constipation vs. slow-transit constipation

Constipation has many causes, but the condition of constipation can be separated into two types – Type 1 Slow Transit Constipation and Type 2 Functional Constipation.

Type 1 Slow Transit constipation is when your body digests food very slowly, while Type 2 Functional Constipation is when digestion is normal, but you have trouble passing stool.

Constipation is defined as infrequent bowel movements or stools that are difficult to pass for several weeks or longer, typically fewer than three bowel movements a week.

This article will help you understand what is causing your constipation and the best way to relieve constipation. Keep reading to learn more.

 Symptoms

  • Passing fewer than three stools a week
  • Having lumpy or hard stools
  • Straining to have bowel movements
  • Feeling as though there's a blockage in your rectum that prevents bowel movements
  • Feeling as though you can't completely empty the stool from your rectum

 Causes

Constipation usually occurs when stools cannot be eliminated from the rectum easily or move too slowly through the digestive tract. This may cause the stool to become dry and hard.

Constipation has many possible causes that may be due to:

  • Eating foods low in fibre.
  • Not drinking enough water.
  • Not getting enough exercise.
  • Changes in your regular routine, such as travelling or eating, or going to bed at different times.
  • Eating large amounts of milk or cheese.
  • Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement.

TREATMENT TO RELIEVE CONSTIPATION            

Treatment for the relief of uncomfortable constipation usually begins with diet and lifestyle changes meant to increase the speed at which stool moves through your intestines. Constipation relief for women and men can be achieved by following the tips below.

Diet and lifestyle changes

  • Increase your fibre intake.
  • Exercise regularly
  • Don't ignore the urge to have a bowel movement

 Laxatives

Several types of laxatives exist to make it easier to have a bowel movement. The following are available over-the-counter:

  • Fibre supplements.
  • Stimulants.
  • Osmotics.
  • Lubricants.
  • Stool softeners.
  • Enemas and suppositories.

Complications of constipation include:

  • Swollen veins in your anus (haemorrhoids). Straining to have a bowel movement may cause swelling in the veins in and around your anus.
  • Torn skin in your anus (anal fissure). A hard or large stool can cause small tears in the anus.
  • Stool that can't be expelled (faecal impaction). Constipation may cause a build-up of hardened stool that gets stuck in your intestines.
  • Intestine that protrudes from the anus (rectal prolapse). Straining to have a bowel movement can cause a small amount of the rectum to stretch and protrude from the anus.

 Prevention

The following can help you avoid developing constipation.

  • Include plenty of high-fibre foods in your diet, including beans, vegetables, fruits, whole-grain cereals, and bran.
  • Eat fewer foods with low amounts of fibre such as processed foods, and dairy and meat products.
  • Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Stay as active as possible and try to get regular exercise.
  • Try to manage stress.
  • Don't ignore the urge to pass stool.
  • Try to create a regular schedule for bowel movements, especially after a meal.

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