CONSTIPATION

What is constipation?

Constipation is a common problem that makes it hard to have bowel movements. Your bowel movements might be:

●Too hard

●Too small

●Hard to get out

●Happening fewer than three times a week

What causes constipation?

Constipation can be caused by:

●Side effects of some medicines

●Poor diet

●Diseases of the digestive system

What are other  symptoms that could signal a more serious problem?

●Blood in the toilet or on the toilet paper after having a bowel movement

●Weight loss

●General weakness

What can I do to prevent constipation? 

Try these steps:

●Eat foods that have a lot of fiber. Good choices are fruits, vegetables, prune juice, and cereal.

●Drink plenty of water and other fluids.

● Do not hold it. Go to the bathroom when you feel the need.

●Take laxatives. These are medicines that help make bowel movements easier. Laxatives are available as as pills, suppositories, or enemas.

Should I see a doctor?

See your doctor if:

●Your symptoms are new or not normal for you.

●You do not have a bowel movement for a few days.

●The problem lasts for longer than 3 weeks.

●You are in a lot of pain.

●You have other symptoms  (for example, bleeding, weakness, weight loss, or fever).

●Other people in your family have had colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.

Can I be treated at urgent care for constipation?

Yes! Ocean Urgent Care is a great place for treatment. Our providers will examine you and determine the best choice of treatment.

How is constipation treated?

It depends on what is causing your constipation. First, your doctor will ask you to try eating more fiber and drinking more water. If that does not help, your doctor might suggest:

●Oral medicines

●Changing the medicines you are taking for other conditions

●A treatment called an "enema" – Enemas can be just water, or they can contain medicine to help with constipation.

References: Up-to-Date Medical reference 2023