What goes in, MUST come out!
Did you know that a significant portion of the population, including one in seven adults and one in three children in the UK grapples with constipation?
This condition, which disproportionately affects women, can stem from various factors such as inadequate fiber intake, a sedentary lifestyle or insufficient hydration. But what constitutes too infrequent pooping, and is there a threshold to be aware of?
Here is what a pooper needs to know:
Individual Variation:
Bowel movement frequency varies greatly among individuals. While some people may pass stools three to four times a day, others might have the same number of bowel movements in an entire week.
Neither scenario is inherently problematic. According to Medical News Today, doctors evaluate bowel movement frequency and consistency to gauge whether one’s habits are typical.
Temporary changes in bowel habits are normal and can result from factors like hormonal fluctuations, travel, dietary adjustments or stress levels.
Establishing a Benchmark:
Despite the diversity in individual bowel habits, the NHS suggests a target frequency for most people to aim for throughout the week. If you haven’t had at least three bowel movements in the past week or are pooping less frequently than usual, you may be experiencing constipation.
Medical News Today echoes this, specifying a minimum of three bowel movements per week. Additionally, signs of constipation include abnormally large, small, dry, lumpy stools, incomplete bowel emptying, bloating and discomfort during defecation.
Identifying Causes and Remedies:
Constipation can arise from various factors, including low fiber intake, inadequate physical activity, dehydration, ignoring the urge to defecate, certain medications, stress, dietary changes, and hormonal fluctuations during menstruation or pregnancy.
While uncommon, medical conditions such as diverticular disease or bowel cancer can also cause constipation.
Consuming a balanced diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, engaging in regular exercise, avoiding alcohol, ensuring adequate sleep and utilizing over-the-counter laxatives as needed can alleviate constipation symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
It’s essential to consult a doctor if you experience chronic bloating, blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or persistent constipation despite treatment efforts.
Similarly, seek medical advice if constipation coincides with fatigue or if certain medications contribute to constipation. Sudden changes in bowel habits or persistent abdominal pain warrant medical evaluation. So go and get your tummy looked at!
In essence, understanding the nuances of bowel habits and recognizing when to seek medical intervention can help maintain optimal digestive health and overall well-being.
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