Constipation is uncomfortable, but there are ways to find constipation relief. If you are wondering how to relieve constipation quickly, here’s what you need to know.
What is Constipation?
Constipation is a state where your stools are difficult to pass because they are large and hard. This happens when the large intestine absorbs too much water from stool, making it hard.
What are the Side Effects of Constipation?
Long-term constipation can lead to swollen veins in your rectum and anus called hemorrhoids. The hard stool can also tear the lining of your anus and pouches of infection in your colon called diverticulitis.
Too much stool in the rectum can cause a pile-up and damage to your pelvic floor muscles, which are also the muscles that control your bladder.
What Foods Help With Constipation?
Eating high-fiber foods can help prevent constipation. Great examples of high-fiber foods include:
- Beans
- Berries
- Broccoli
- Dried fruits
- Apples
- Whole grains
You can also take a fiber supplement to ensure you get enough. In addition to high-fiber foods, also remember to drink plenty of water. Dehydration leads to harder stools, which, in turn, leads to constipation.
What are Laxatives?
Laxatives are a group of medications that help you pass stool more easily. There are many types of laxatives.
Emollients or Stool Softeners: What are stool softeners? Stool softeners are a type of laxative that helps you pass stool more quickly if you are constipated. You can find stool softeners in the form of capsules, pills, liquids, and even syrups. You should expect constipation relief after one to three days of using a stool softener.
You should always take stool softeners precisely as directed by your doctor and pharmacist. Taking too much can cause stomach irritation, while taking too little will not produce the desired effect.
Bulking Laxatives: This form of laxatives helps bulk up your stool to make it easier for the waste to travel through your digestive tract. Popular forms of bulking laxatives include psyllium and methylcellulose. If you suffer from chronic constipation, bulking laxatives may be a good option.
Lubricant Laxatives: These laxatives lubricate your stool, making it easier to pass. Lubricant laxatives contain mineral oil that coats the waste and your intestinal walls; not only do things slide more easily, but it also prevents water loss. Unlike bulking laxatives, you should not use lubricant laxatives long-term.
Stimulant Laxatives with Senna: Stimulant laxatives increase the activity within your intestines to promote rapid digestion and help you empty your bowels.
How to Relieve Constipation Quickly?
If you’re constipated and looking for rapid relief, consider eating a serving of high fiber foods and drinking a large glass of water. If this doesn’t work, consider a bulking agent. Doing light exercise such as walking or jogging can also help move food through your colon. If that still doesn’t work, consider a laxative.
When to Talk to a Doctor
If you are constantly constipated, if your fecal matter is an odd color, or if you have not passed fecal matter in over a week, you should speak to your doctor.
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