Constipation Pain
Constipation pain affects pretty much every individual at least once in a lifetime. Yet, there are people who are more exposed to getting constipated due to a whole range of health problems that have constipation as a symptom:
- intestinal parasites;
- irritable bowel syndrome;
- stress;
- low fiber intake from diet;
- hiatus hernia;
- dehydration;
- bowel cancer;
- liver dysfunctions;
- hypothyroidism;
- overuse of laxatives that in time weaken the bowel muscles etc.
Anybody can suffer from constipation pain, from infants to senior adults. Diet is the main culprit here because any dietary imbalance has consequences on the overall body condition. For example, babies who are given cow milk that has not been skimmed, may become constipated and suffer from abdominal pain. Yet, this is just an example of how some apparently simple dietary choices harm the digestive balance.
What to do about constipation pain
Abdominal pain accompanied by bloating and swelling represent some of the most frequent symptoms of constipation. You may also experience trouble defecating, stomach upset, vomiting as well as a decreased appetite.
It’s more likely to go through a painful episode while standing or sitting than while lying down. Some patients experience such violent pain that they can no longer walk or stand. Make sure to seek medical help if this happens.
You should also contact the doctor right away if you have never suffered from constipation before and your abdomen aches. Pain associated with every bowel movement is another sign of alarm that should make you call the GP and get an appointment.
For very serious health problems like bowel cancer or obstructed colon, the constipation pain is an acute symptom that appears along with unwanted and unexpected weight loss or blood in the stool.
Preventing constipation
In case the causes of the constipation are dietary, a few changes in the eating pattern should solve the problem.
Eat fresh fruits like prunes, apples, raspberries, cantaloupe or peaches on the empty stomach in the morning.
Include wholegrain cereals, seeds and nuts in your diet, but make sure you drink lots of water too, otherwise too much fiber could aggravate the constipation.
Do physical activity. People who exercise regularly have healthy bowel movements!
Treating constipation
The best way to eliminate the constipation pain is to defecate. You can either take an over-the-counter laxative or use natural solutions to deal with the situation.
Castor oil and cold-pressed olive oil are excellent laxatives. A spoonful on the empty stomach should do the trick.
Include honey in your daily diet as well. Drink a warm glass of liquid with a spoonful of honey first thing in the morning, and you will no longer have problems with the stool.
In case the abdominal pain is a symptom of a more serious health condition, the problem requires professional diagnosis and a treatment prescribed by the doctor. Do not self-diagnose or self-treat as there may be serious consequences for your health, besides the constipation pain discomfort.