What Is Constipation?
Contrary to what you might think, have read, or been told, people do not need to have a bowel movement every day. In fact, the frequency of "normal" or regular bowel movements varies widely from person to person. However, passing a stool less than three times a week may be a sign of constipation. Most cases of constipation can be easily identified as a simple complication and treated with proper lifestyle changes or certain medications. However, chronic constipation accompanied by other serious symptoms may require additional tests to ensure that your issue does not have an underlying cause. At Denmark Digestive Health, board-certified physician of gastroenterology Dr. Vera Denmark leads our skilled team of specialists who will work with you to determine the cause of your constipation and help you resolve the issue with simple and effective solutions.
While most cases of constipation are the result of lifestyle habits that can be treated with diet modifications, certain medications, and physical activity, constipation that occurs out of nowhere could be merely a symptom of an underlying problem. Some possible causes for constipation include:
- A low-fiber diet
- Dehydration or not drinking enough water
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, Parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis
- Some medications (antidepressants, narcotics, certain blood pressure medications, and more)
- Colon, rectal, or anal cancer
- A narrowing of the colon resulting from Crohn's disease, radiation, or diverticulitis
If you've noticed an abnormality in your bowel movements, contact our Weston, MA practice for guidance.
What Treatments Are Available for Constipation?
Constipation can be effectively managed by making adjustments to one's lifestyle and diet. Our medical professionals at Denmark Digestive Health often recommend gradually increasing the intake of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It's crucial to make this transition slowly to avoid potential side effects, like gas and bloating. Adequate hydration and regular physical activity are also other practical components of this approach. In other cases, patients may need to use prescription or over-the-counter mild laxatives or stool softeners to help alleviate constipation. However, these should be used only under medical guidance and not be overused or extended without approval. It’s important to closely follow the advice of our expert team so we can help you manage and improve your intestinal well-being.
What Are the Symptoms of Constipation?
Constipation is a common digestive issue often characterized by infrequent bowel movements. Ideally, one should have a bowel movement at least once every three days. Experiencing less than three bowel movements per week is a clear indication of constipation. Residents of Weston, MA facing these symptoms can seek professional care at Denmark Digestive Health where personalized care and treatment options are available. Constipation can present itself in various ways, including:
- Difficult experience while passing stools
- A need to strain excessively during bowel movements
- Stools that appear hard, lumpy, or dry
- A persistent feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement
Denmark Digestive Health Reviews
Dr. Vera Denmark is a very patient Physician! She helped me come off the medication and change my diet to prevent me from having acid reflux disease! She is very thorough and thoughtful and always examined me very carefully!
Dr Denmark is welcoming and calming. She is a great listener and does an outstanding job of aligning with the patient to assess patient and symptoms. Dr Denmark explained her analysis of my situation in clear, easy to understand language, and wrote out a plan of action that included all of my concerns. She was able to diagnose a condition that I have had for years, that kept getting worse. No previous Dr was able to help me. I am now on the mend and so happy that I was lucky enough to find her.
Dr. Denmark is the most compassionate/intuitive/brilliant medical professional I've ever had the privilege of getting an appointment for consultation. Walking in with fears and leaving with sound, practical advice has made me understand that with aging, you have to change your diet. The terrible stabbing pain ceased. She listened and with questions and answers, got right to the problem.She spent a lot of time with me. Thank you so much.
Experienced and knowledgeable about GI issues. Dr. Denmark was quick and efficient with my exam and diagnosis. The surgical center was totally overbooked the day I went for my exam, but these things happen.
4
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Take Control of Your Digestive Health
Are you dealing with concerning changes in your bowel habits? Don't let constipation disrupt your life. Take the first step toward relief by contacting our practice in Weston, MA. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Vera Denmark, a board-certified gastroenterologist, and her team of experienced colorectal specialists. Our dedicated professionals are here to provide you with the care and guidance you need to restore your digestive health.