Experiencing difficulty defecating (BAB) or constipation feels very uncomfortable and can interfere with daily activities. Difficulty defecating can be caused by several things, such as unhealthy habits and side effects of certain diseases or conditions. Before it gets worse, let's get to know constipation further.
Definition of difficult CHAPTER
Difficult bowel movements (BAB) or constipation is a condition when a person experiences a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements, which is less than 3x a week. The condition of difficult bowel movements, which in medical terms is called constipation, should not be underestimated, because in some cases, difficult bowel movements can indicate complications of other serious diseases.
Signs or symptoms of difficulty defecating
Symptoms of difficult bowel movements can vary for some people, but in general, here are three symptoms of difficult bowel movements:
- CHAPTER less than 3x a week
- BAB dry, hard, bloody
- Stomach upset
Causes of difficult defecation
Lots of habits, diseases, or certain conditions that cause a person to have difficulty defecating. Here are some things that might be the cause of difficult bowel movements or constipation:
- Less consumption of mineral water, fiber intake, and exercise
- Side effects of using drugs
- Disturbances of the digestive tract or system, intestinal blockage
- Pregnant
- stress
- Too long to hold BAB
- Disorders of the nerves and or muscles moving the intestines
- Hormonal disorders
- Colon cancer and or rectal cancer
- Spinal cord injury
- Strokes
How to deal with difficult CHAPTER
Actually, it's quite easy to deal with difficult bowel movements or constipation. You just need to eat a balanced nutritious diet, exercise often, manage stress, drink lots of mineral water, eat lots of fibrous foods or take fiber supplements, don't delay bowel movements often, and take laxatives.
When to see a doctor
Immediately consult a doctor if you have adopted a healthy life, drink lots of mineral water, and take laxatives but constipation does not go away. Especially if you experience several symptoms such as a lump in your stomach, weight loss, decreased appetite, ongoing nausea and vomiting, there is a personal or family history of intestinal tumors.
Usually, the doctor will conduct an examination to find the main source of the cause of constipation by doing a colonoscopy. Colonoscopy is an examination using a tool that is inserted from the anus to the intestine to check for obstructions. After knowing what is the main cause of constipation, the doctor will provide treatment according to what is needed.
Article reviewed by: dr. Muhammad Yamin Lubis, Sp.PD-KGEH, FINASIM (Internal Medicine Specialist - Gastro Entero Hepatology Consultant at EMC Sentul Hospital).