Treatment For Constipation

Constipation refers to a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements, which happens with varying frequency for every individual. If you go longer than three days without one, this is a red flag, as the stool hardens and becomes more difficult to pass. Contrary to popular myth, wastes stored in the body at length are not necessarily dangerous, although it can be a symptom of a more serious disorder like colon cancer. Most cases are inconvenient and uncomfortable, but not life threatening.

Symptoms

  • Two or fewer bowel movements in a week.
  • Straining during bowel movements.
  • Hard stools and/or incomplete evacuation.
  • Pain and vomiting if constipation persists.

Who is at risk?

Women and elderly persons are most commonly affected by constipation. It also has a tendency to occur in persons who are sedentary, stressed, dehydrated, traveling frequently, suffering from hypothyroidism, or lacking fiber in their diet.

Treatment

The best prevention is a balanced, well hydrated diet. If you find yourself already in the dilemma of constipation, drink extra water and eat more fruits and vegetables to aid the process of moving your bowels. Exercise will likely be prescribed too. A doctor might direct you to over the counter laxatives or fiber supplements.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

Severe symptoms lasting more than three weeks should be evaluation by a physician. A lack of movement in children can be caused by fecal impaction, which could be serious if not treated by a doctor.

Treatment for Constipation is available now at South Atlanta Urgent Care Clinic in Atlanta.

For more information on Constipation, see the following websites:

Constipation in Children, by eMedicineHealth

Mayo Clinic on Constipation in Pregnancy

American Gastroenterological Association on Understanding Constipation

I was in and out with my toddler. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Much better than going to the emergency room

Oh my goodness! The staff here were amazing and accommodated us for an unexpected walk up test we needed. Such great service at the end of a long day. Thank you!

Our primary doctor's office closed early today so we decided to go to this urgent care. The staff was very professional and personal with us. My son asked if we could change our provider to this location (which means he was comfortable here) but I was informed by the staff member that they have a provider in Morrow. We will be using their doctor soon as our primary provider. The doctor was great with explaining the issue and electronically sending the prescription to our pharmacy of choice. I will be back if I ever need an urgent care facility.