What are the effects of chronic constipation?
Chronic constipation can cause stress, loss of appetite, lack of energy, headaches, back pain, abdominal cramps, or even acid reflux or heartburn. In addition, frequent straining to pass stool can have adverse effects on some patients, such as heart disease, hemorrhoids, and hernia patients. Importantly, constipation can also be a warning sign of colon cancer.
Constipation alone could be a sign of colon cancer
Constipation can be a warning sign of colon cancer. Especially when patients experience constipation along with other warning signs, patients should see a doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment. They should always observe these warning signs.
- Black stool with blood or hidden blood in the stool
- Have iron deficiency anemia
- Unintentional or unexplained weight loss
- Constipation alternating with diarrhea
- Smaller stool volume
- Have symptoms of intestinal obstruction
- Have a family history of colon cancer or chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
Chronic constipation can be cured if treated properly.
In the initial treatment of chronic constipation, the doctor will take a medical history, examine the symptoms, and perform a general physical examination, including a rectal examination, to find a correctable cause of constipation, such as stopping certain medications that cause constipation, or giving thyroid hormone replacement therapy to patients with hypothyroidism.
If no clear cause of constipation is คาสิโนออนไลน์ UFABET ฝากถอนรวดเร็ว เริ่มต้นเล่นง่าย found, the doctor will recommend behavioral changes such as eating foods high in fiber, drinking more water, exercising regularly, and recommending good bowel habits. In the beginning, medication may also be given to help with bowel movements. Once the symptoms improve, the medication will be gradually reduced until it can be stopped.