Combating Constipation
By Cassie (Cassado)
Constipation is the inability to make a bowel movement. It can be uncomfortable, worrisome, and inconvenient for many people. It can be difficult to do daily tasks when you're worrying about using the restroom. This article will discuss a few causes and symptoms of constipation as well as different remedies to try if you are constipated.
A variety of things can cause constipation. Preexisting conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or an eating disorder cause constipation. Other instances could include eating unhealthy foods or consuming too much of one particular food, such as rice. Symptoms of constipation include passing less than three stools per week, having urges to use the restroom despite being unable to, having headaches, and experiencing stomach pain.
[Chantal: I really like this, are you able to add in hemorrhoids could happen from passing too many hard stools, unsure if that would fit here or something.] If left untreated, constipation can lead to bowel impaction or bowel obstruction.
Remedies
There are many different things to try if you are having trouble using the restroom. You can change your diet and exercise routine, massage yourself, or try laxatives, to name a few.
Pick a time to use the restroom
Scheduling time in the bathroom is as important as brushing your teeth or going to bed at the same time each night. You should choose a time when you can be relaxed and uninterrupted. Over time, your body will become accustomed to the schedule and this will make it easier to use the facilities. Having an established schedule can help decrease any stress you may have over using the bathroom.
[Chantal: I know this might be weird to some but sitting on the toilet and waiting can help, sometimes you can read a book. Or if you can't go, walk around a little, sometimes it helps.]
Change your diet and keep hydrated
While it is said that dark green vegetables help the digestive system, everyone's body responds to different foods. Some people ease constipation by eating more vegetables, while others need prunes, a bowl of ice cream, or a cup of coffee to keep their systems moving. Find what foods work for you and keep them documented if you find that helpful. Drink water often, as well. Water can hydrate the waste in your body to help move it along.
Try exercising
Consider adding squats to your exercise routine. When people used outhouses, they were positioned in such a way that made it easier to go.
However, today's toilets have you in a different position that is not beneficial, and may even be counterproductive to your health. [Chantal: I am not sure what you mean, I am a little confused. Are you able to expand on this a little bit? What are the outhouses and toilets now, how does it affect the stools?] You can also consider looking into a regular stool, or a stool marketed for squatting such as the Squatty Potty. [Chantal: Do you mean like toilets designed for the proper posture for having proper and easy flow to have a bowel movement easily?]
[Overall, I think it would be benefial to add some other exercises like walking or running, as this helps things moving in your body]
Massage your stomach
Sometimes the waste in your body could benefit from a massage. Put your thumb and middle finger together and slowly rub your stomach in circular motions. Find a middle ground between massaging too lightly and too harshly. You will know what feels best for you.
[Chantal: Something to add is using a warm pack, like a rice sock or a heating pad as it can help with discomfort]
Use laxatives
There are several different types of laxatives such as stool softeners, mineral oil, or stimulant laxatives. Laxatives can be administered orally or through the rectum. When using a laxative, be sure to increase your water intake. Laxatives should only be used occasionally as you can become addicted to them over time.
See your doctor
If you are frequently constipated, or you have tried different remedies without results, speak to your doctor so you can find out what is causing your constipation and what you can to do stop it.