Patient Education Program

What You Should Know About Constipation

The Gastrointestinal Tract

the gastrointestinal tract

What is the perfect Bowel Movement?

The perfect bowel movement passes within seconds without pushing, straining or waiting for it to finish. It cleans easily, without messing the surrounding area. It does not cause pain, or bleeding.

How often should I have a Bowel Movement?

It would be best to have one bowel movement a day. But it is not abnormal to miss a day, or have several in one day. So long as it’s painless, passes easily, and is not associated with abdominal cramps or bloating.

What is Constipation?

Constipation is when you struggle to pass stool.

  • It may result in infrequent bowel movements.
  • It may result in difficulty evacuating.

Both are considered ‘constipation’.

Does Constipation harm me?

  • Constipation causes hemorrhoids and fissures. If hemorrhoids and fissures become well-established, they can in turn, make constipation worse.
  • It makes diverticular disease more likely.
  • It commonly creates abdominal pains

What causes Constipation?

The common causes of constipation include:

  • Insufficient Fiber
  • Hormonal Imbalances
  • Pain medications, iron therapy; cardiac meds
  • Hemorrhoids, or Fissures (once established)
  • Tumor blocking the bowel
IMPORTANT TIP: The ideal bowel movement comes the moment you sit, without pain, straining or bleeding. It's completed within seconds, and is easy to clean.
 
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