While many of us experience difficulty with bowel movements at one point or another, chronic constipation can sometimes require medical intervention. If you’re facing this issue, NYBG Colorectal can help you find the relief you’ve been seeking.
Constipation
Clearing Up Your Constipation Issues at NYBG Colorectal
Constipation can take many forms and is a fantastically common condition that almost every individual will experience at one some time in their lives. In most cases, constipation is caused by a simple dietary or environmental factor and the condition clears up as soon as this factor is removed from the patient’s lifestyle. Sometimes, however, constipation can take hold and seemingly refuse to release its grip. If you’ve been suffering from chronic constipation—characterized by fewer than three bowel movements per week, or the constant presence of very dry stool that is abnormally hard—it is recommended that you seek treatment. The good news is that the talented team here at NYBG Colorectal is ready to help! We have extensive experience dealing with a wide variety of colorectal issues and can help you find the relief you’ve been looking for. To learn more about how we can help you overcome chronic constipation, simply reach out to our New York location and set up your consultation with a member of our staff today.
The Potential Causes of Your Constipation
Just like many of the conditions we address at NYBG Colorectal, constipation can have a number of causes. In fact, isolating the root cause of your constipation is often the key to treating it, and enabling you to enjoy regular, comfortable bowel movements once more. Common causes for chronic constipation can include:
- A diet too low in fiber
- Insufficient water consumption
- Thyroid issues
- Parkinson’s disease
- An obstruction in the bowel
- Certain medications
- Pregnancy
- Extreme stress
How Constipation Happens
Your large intestine—also known as your colon—is an important part of your digestive tract, and helps to prepare your feces for excretion once your food has been digested. By the time your food reaches the colon, it has been almost completely processed. The colon works to remove any extra moisture that may be present, so your stool can be passed easily.
When your stool is made to spend extra time in your colon, this moisture removal continues and the stool can become extremely dry and hard, making it much more difficult to pass. This can cause constipation, which may also lead to secondary issues caused by straining, like the presence of hemorrhoids or anal fissures.
Treating Your Constipation
If you’re experiencing difficulty with bowel movements lasting longer than three weeks, you should seek treatment for constipation. Dietary changes are among the first treatment options, as encouraging the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and lots of water can often help to resolve the issue.
Suppositories or laxative medications can also help in more severe cases. If you suspect that you might be dealing with chronic constipation, we recommend coming in for an exam as quickly as possible. To learn more about how we can help you, reach out and set up your consultation with a member of the NYBG Colorectal team today.
