Occasional Constipation
Occasional Constipation
Occasional constipation is defined as infrequent and difficult bowel movements. It is usually caused by a change in diet, medication, or lifestyle habits. Occasional constipation usually resolves on its own after a few days. However, if symptoms persist, it is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of Occasional Constipation
Common causes of occasional constipation include:
- Inadequate water intake.
- Physical inactivity.
- A low-fiber diet.
- Eating too much processed food.
- Medications such as opioids, iron supplements, antidepressants, antacids, and anticonvulsants.
- Low levels of thyroid hormone.
- Pregnancy.
- Stress and anxiety.
- Abuse of laxatives.
- Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement.
Signs and Symptoms of Occasional Constipation
The most common signs and symptoms of occasional constipation include:
- Infrequent bowel movements (less than three per week).
- Difficulty or discomfort during bowel movements.
- Hard, dry, or lumpy stools.
- Needing to strain excessively during bowel movements.
- Abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping.
- Feeling like there is something stuck in the rectum.
Treatments for Occasional Constipation
The treatment for occasional constipation depends on the underlying cause. Generally, the goal of treatment is to increase the frequency and ease of passing stool. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, or natural remedies.
Lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity, eating more fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding constipating foods like dairy and processed foods can help alleviate occasional constipation.
Over-the-counter laxatives can also help with occasional constipation and are available in pill, liquid, and suppository form. Natural remedies such as prunes, kiwi, and aloe vera juice may also be helpful for occasional constipation. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking any medications or natural remedies for occasional constipation.