People have different definitions of exactly what constipation is to them. Some people define it as having difficulty passing stools because they are too hard. In extreme cases feces have become so hard inside the rectum that nothing (stools) can pass. This is known as fecal impaction. Some people may define constipation as having an urge to defecate but are really straining hard to void. Some may feel after defecating that they are not empty. However the medical community simply defines constipation as having less than three movements per week and severe constipation as less than one movement per week.
What causes constipation? Constipation is caused by food being digested in the intestines at a greatly reduced rate primarily in your colon. Another cause is various medications that are prescribed by physicians. For example antidepressants, narcotics, anticonvulsants and iron supplements to name a few could be the responsible culprits for causing constipation. If you are currently on any types of these medications and experiencing constipation you should talk to your physician to see if he/she can prescribe a comparable medication that will reduce or eliminate your constipation.
Physicians can perform a range of tests from simple to complex in determining the severity of your constipation. If a patient complains of pain while defecating then the physician will probably check for anal fissures which are tears at the opening of the anus and the anal canal. If the patient is complaining of defecating small stools more than likely the cause is lack of sufficient fiber in the diet. Fiber adds bulk and makes the stool soft to assist with easy elimination. Drink plenty of water when taking fiber supplements to prevent the fiber from hardening therefore eliminating the benefit of the fiber. Patients that have had previous surgery in the rectal area or have a condition called strictures (narrow colon) should only take dietary fiber under the care of a physician.
If the patient is complaining of straining while defecating then this could indicate a problem with your pelvic floor. It is recommended to give your physician all the details, no matter how minor, of your condition in order for him/her to properly treat you. The most common treatments of constipation are dietary fiber, stool softeners, stimulant laxatives (i.e. Ex-Lax) and enemas. As you can see the treatment of constipation is not a one cure for all.
Your physicians will evaluate your medical and physical history to determine the most appropriate solution for you. If your physician is not comfortable with performing the evaluations or if you are not comfortable with your physician in this area of medical practice, then the appropriate specialist to look for is a gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist will be very familiar with diagnosing constipation and treating this condition. Remember a diet high in fiber in conjunction with adequate water will assist in decreasing your bouts with constipation. However if after taking simple measures such as fiber supplements, laxatives or enemas do not alleviate your symptoms, then you should seek the immediate care of your physician.
