5 Effective Ways to Deal With IBS Constipation


 

Constipation is a widespread condition that accounts for about 2 million doctor visits each year. Many people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have diarrhea, however, a tiny percentage of the population suffers constipation (IBS-C) or alternating constipation and diarrhea (IBS-A). Fortunately, constipation can be efficiently treated or avoided in numerous ways. Changing your diet and increasing your activity level will usually get things rolling again.

1. Add Dietary Fiber 

Constipation patients  (including those with constipation-predominant IBS) are frequently advised to increase their fiber intake. The type of fiber, on the other hand, is critical for those with IBS. Soluble and insoluble fibers are the two forms of fiber. Soluble fiber offers several benefits that may help relieve IBS symptoms: it may avoid spasms by keeping the colon slightly bloated, and it absorbs water to keep stools from becoming excessively hard and difficult to pass.

Dietary fibers should be sufficient to support smooth, painless, and easy passage of feces. Switching to a fiber-rich diet may cause gas and bloating at first, but these symptoms should subside after a few weeks as the body adjusts. Fiber pills are another good option to get more fiber in your diet.

2. Drink Enough Fluids 

Dehydration is a common problem, and many people are unaware of this problem.. Constipation can be caused by chronic dehydration. Drink 64 ounces of water each day to be hydrated, and avoid caffeinated beverages, which dehydrate you. It is preferable to drink water slowly throughout the day, particularly before, during, and after activity.

3. Be Physically Active 

Another common cause of chronic constipation is a lack of exercise. Most of us are aware that exercise is beneficial to our overall health, but it can also aid in constipation relief. For greater overall health, the US Surgeon General recommends at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. However, even brisk walking is preferable to no aerobic activity in terms of health advantages.

4. Use Laxatives With Caution 

Some people may use laxatives as a result of severe constipation. Laxatives are widely accessible over-the-counter, but they should be used with caution since, if misused, they can be extremely hazardous to the colon. Laxatives damage colon nerves over time, leading the colon to become unable to contract and pass feces on its own.

Overuse of enemas is linked to the same negative effect on the nerves in the colon. Natural laxatives include prune juice, figs, licorice, and rhubarb, and while they should be avoided by persons with diarrhea-predominant IBS, they may be beneficial to those with constipation-predominant IBS.

5. Avoiding Complications From Constipation 

Constipation can cause issues including hemorrhoids and, less commonly, anal fissures.

Hemorrhoids 

A hemorrhoid is a type of varicose vein that develops as a result of straining to pass stool. Itching, burning, and bleeding are some of the symptoms. Hemorrhoid bleeding is usually bright red and appears on the toilet paper rather than in the bowl. Even if you assume it's related to hemorrhoid, get rectal bleeding checked out by a doctor.

Anal Fissures 

A fissure is a tear or ulcer in the anal canal's lining, which is the last segment of the rectum before the anus. Painful bowel motions, bright red blood in the toilet bowel or on toilet paper, anal bulge, or large skin tag are all signs of a fissure. Fissures are treated by reducing pressure on the anal canal by ensuring soft stools and reducing pain or bleeding. Although this is not a typical symptom of IBS, it is important to be aware of because straining on hard stools can exacerbate the problem.

Constipation is usually treated with the treatments listed above. Constipation can also be avoided with the use of fiber, water, and exercise.

The Bottom Line 

Constipation is inconvenient, but it leads to issues. Constipation can often be relieved by adopting simple modifications such as eating fiber, drinking water, exercising, and taking time to go to the bathroom. Laxatives and other over-the-counter medicines may provide temporary relief, but they should not be used on a regular basis without consulting a doctor. If adopting lifestyle changes isn't working, talk to your doctor about other options.

Health