During the initial appointment, the doctor asks the patient in detail about the symptoms, the duration of the disturbance of bowel movements, dietary habits, the level of physical activity, and the presence of accompanying diseases. The frequency of defecation, the presence of pain, bloating, and other unpleasant sensations are evaluated.
If necessary, additional examinations may be prescribed, which help assess the condition of the intestines and rule out other diseases:
- laboratory blood tests;
- stool analysis;
- ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs;
- endoscopic examinations of the intestines (for example, colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy).
After establishing the cause, the doctor selects an individual therapy program. In most cases, treatment begins with correction of lifestyle and diet. Proper nutrition for constipation plays an important role: it is recommended to increase the amount of foods rich in fiber, follow a regular eating schedule, and drink a sufficient amount of fluid. Regular physical activity also contributes to the normalization of intestinal function.
If necessary, the doctor may prescribe drug therapy. Medications are used that help normalize intestinal motility, soften fecal masses, or restore the balance of intestinal microflora. This usually helps to get rid of constipation. It is important to remember that independent and prolonged use of laxatives without consulting a doctor may worsen the problem.
In some cases, constipation may be a symptom of other diseases — for example, pathologies of the large intestine, endocrine disorders, or neurological disorders. In such cases, treatment is primarily aimed at eliminating the underlying cause of the problem. After treatment of the underlying disease, intestinal function usually gradually returns to normal.
A comprehensive approach to the treatment of constipation in Kyiv at the clinic “Oxford Medical” allows not only to eliminate symptoms but also to influence the cause of the disturbance. That is why in case of prolonged or recurring problems with bowel movements it is important to consult a doctor in order to determine how to treat constipation in a particular case and prevent the development of possible complications.