General Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptoms

Home » General Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptoms » Constipation Treatment

Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Your GI Condition
(Free Handout)

Treatment

Most of the time, constipation is not serious and resolves with conservative treatment. Eating a high fiber diet (e.g., whole grain foods, fresh fruits and vegetables), increasing fluid intake, and exercising daily can help reduce constipation. Foods that can contribute to constipation, such as cheese, processed foods, and red meat should be avoided. Making time for bowel movements regularly also may be helpful.

When changes in diet and lifestyle modifications do not improve symptoms, over-the-counter or prescription medications (e.g., stool softeners, laxatives) and enemas may be used. An enema involves introducing a special solution into the rectum and colon to stimulate bowel activity and empty stool from the lower intestines. Medications and enemas should not be used longer than directed except under the supervision of a physician.

Biofeedback sometimes can help improve the function of muscles that are used to control bowel movements. In some cases, complications from chronic constipation (e.g., rectal prolapse, anal fissure) may require surgery.

© 1998-2008 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

General Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptoms Resources

	Join Our Constipation Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
Are you interested in becoming a nurse? Take this test. Advertising Disclaimer To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer