On a park bench, two retirees talk to each other. One complained: "I've been feeling sick lately, and I can't solve it." Another nodded in resonance: "Me too, I feel that my body is not as good as before, this constipation is really a headache." "Their topics reflect the health issues that many people face on a daily basis. What bothers them so much? Is it a lifestyle problem, or is it a natural change in bodily functioning? What is the solution to intractable constipation, a seemingly ordinary but embarrassing problem?
Constipation is a common problem in daily life, especially for middle-aged and elderly people. Intractable constipation, unlike ordinary constipation, is a more persistent and complex condition. Intractable constipation is not only difficult to have a bowel movement, but is often accompanied by bloating, discomfort, and even pain. It's not just about comfort, it's an important factor in overall health.
When discussing intractable constipation, a key point is its frequency and nature. Generally, if you have fewer than three bowel movements in a week and the condition persists for several weeks or more, you can be classified as intractable constipation. Its characteristics include difficulty in defecation, hard and dry stools, and even the need to strain excessively to have a bowel movement. Prolonged straining to have bowel movements can lead to gut health problems, such as hemorrhoids.
It's important to note that intractable constipation isn't just a digestive problem, it can also be a warning of other health problems. For example, slowing of bowel motility may be associated with a slowed metabolism, which is more common in middle-aged and older people. In addition,Chronic illness, medications*** and even lifestyle changes can be triggers.
In fact, a 65-year-old retired teacher gradually developed the problem Xi of intractable constipation due to the long-term office work and the change of dietary habits. He ignored the symptom at first until the bloating and pain caused by constipation interfered with his daily life and he began to seek medical help. After changing his diet and increasing exercise, his symptoms improved significantly.
Intractable constipation is not untraceable, and the small details of life Xi often hide triggers. First of all, the influence of diet cannot be ignored. Low-fiber diets are the main culprits. Fiber is essential for gut health, as it increases stool bulk and promotes bowel movements. However, in modern dietary Xi, high-fat, high-sugar foods are overflowing, and fiber intake is far from enough. In stark contrast, people living in rural areas have a relatively lower incidence of constipation due to the consumption of more whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
Exercise Xi should not be ignored. Being sedentary, especially for middle-aged and elderly people, can significantly slow down intestinal peristalsis, leading to constipation. In contrast,Moderate physical activity such as walking and yoga can effectively promote intestinal health.
Drug effects are also a key factor. Many middle-aged and elderly people take certain drugs for a long time due to chronic diseases, and unknowingly, these drugs such as painkillers, antidepressants, etc. may cause constipation. A survey showedAbout 30% of middle-aged and elderly people who take these drugs for a long time suffer from constipation.
In addition, with age, bowel movements naturally slow down, which is a physiological change but not unimproving. Proper adjustment of lifestyle Xi can maintain intestinal health even in old age.
Psychological factors, especially stress and anxiety, are also important triggers. Nervousness can affect bowel function, making bowel movements slower and leading to constipation. One study showed that people who have been in a high-pressure environment for a long time have a higher incidence of constipation than the general population.
Doctors usually begin with a history that asks detailed questions about bowel Xi, eating patterns, and any possible lifestyle changes. This is not only to understand the symptoms, but also to rule out other diseases that may cause similar symptoms.
Next, a physical examination is essential. During an abdominal examination, doctors can look for intestinal distension or other abnormalities. In some cases, a rectal exam is also used to assess the condition of the end of the bowel.
If necessary, your doctor may also recommend ancillary tests, such as blood tests, to check for metabolic problems or deficiencies in certain nutrients. For special situations, such as sudden onset of symptoms or weight loss, a colonoscopy may be necessary to help rule out colon cancer or other serious medical conditions.
During the diagnosis process, the doctor will pay special attention to any medication use in the medical history, because certain medications such as antidepressants and high blood pressure medications may cause constipation.
In one study, more than half of patients with intractable constipation did not receive a detailed abdominal examination at their initial presentation, which could lead to misdiagnosis or delay**. Therefore, it is essential that the doctor pays attention to every detail and conducts a thorough examination.
Diet is the key to preventing constipation. High-fiber foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, should be a regular at the table. Why? Because cellulose can increase the volume of stool and promote intestinal peristalsis. In fact, studies have shown that increasing your fiber intake by 20-30 grams per day can significantly improve constipation symptoms. At the same time, it is equally important to maintain adequate water intake, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass.
Secondly, the amount of activity in life cannot be ignored. Even a simple walk can help stimulate bowel movements. For the elderly, sticking to a moderate amount of light exercises such as walking and tai chi every day is not only beneficial to intestinal health, but also strengthens the overall physique.
Also, good bowel Xi is equally important. Having a regular routine and avoiding the urge to defecate for long periods of time can help to develop a healthy intestinal environment. Don't ignore your body's natural signals and respond when there's a need to defecate.
Finally, maintaining a good mindset cannot be ignored either. Stress and anxiety are often hidden factors that lead to constipation. Simple relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, etc., can help relieve stress and thus indirectly improve constipation.
With these small daily changes, not only can you effectively prevent and reduce stubborn constipation, but you can also promote overall health. These are not difficult goals to achieve, but health results that are gradually accumulated through little by little changes in Xi habits.