Expert Diagnosis and Treatment of Constipation for Patients in New Jersey
Constipation Overview
Constipation is the inability to have a bowel movement. While everyone has differing degrees of regularity, experiencing less than three bowel movements per week generally constitutes constipation. Although constipation may be caused by a number of reasons, the expert constipation doctors at Advanced Gastro Center can get to the source of your problem and help you find relief.
Constipation Accompanying Symptoms
Constipation, especially severe constipation, may be accompanied by pain in the stomach area and bloating. If you are able to pass any stool, the stool may be exceptionally hard and the process painful. You might also feel a sensation of incomplete emptying or of a blockage in your gut.
Possible Causes of Constipation
The causes of constipation are many and can range from the innocuous to serious. Possible reasons for constipation include a poor diet with insufficient fiber, pregnancy, opioid use, and bowel obstruction.
Constipation Diagnosis
Diagnosis of constipation begins with a medical history and physical examination. Your gastroenterologist may then conduct some diagnostic imaging, like x-rays or a CT scan. In some cases, more advanced diagnostic procedures, such as a colonoscopy, are necessary.
Constipation Treatment
Naturally, the treatment that New Jersey doctors will prescribe for constipation depends on the cause of the problem. For many patients, a change in diet is all that’s necessary. This may include consuming more fiber from fruits and vegetables and increasing water intake. Others may need prescription medications like laxatives and stool softeners. Fecal impactions may require enemas or manual disimpaction. In the case of bowel obstruction, surgery may be necessary.
Remember, constipation can be a symptom of both mild and serious illnesses. You won’t know the underlying cause until you make an appointment with one of the specialists at Advanced Gastro Center in New Jersey. Don’t let your condition worsen by putting off a consultation.