Constipation
Constipation, which means that you have infrequent bowel movements, pass hard stools or strain when you do have bowel movements, is usually temporary. It can usually be managed with a change in your diet and drinking plenty of fluids. But, it can be a sign of a more serious condition. See your doctor if you have a change in bowel habits, intense pain, blood in your stool, rectal pain or thin pencil-like stools.
Recently Answered
- Q What can I do to help my child with constipation?
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Feed your child at the same time every day. Have your child exercise regularly. Allow time for your child to sit on the toilet so he can have a stool. Have regular toilet times for your child once or twice a day – after eating a meal is... Full Answer
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- Q How often should my child have a stool?
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Children do not always have a stool every day. • Your child’s normal stool pattern may change depending on his age and what he eats. • Breast-fed babies may have a stool with every feeding until around one-month of age. After that, it is... Full Answer
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- Q Should I use mineral oil to treat my child's constipation?
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Dr. Michael Roizen, Internal MedicineSome say that mineral oil can relieve constipation. The downside is that it has no nutritional benefits, and when it slides through the intestines, it quite possibly takes vitamins out along with it. If you do use it to help your child, make sure... Full Answer
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- Q How can I ease my child's constipation?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyIf your child is constipated, you can help move things along. For the older kids, try these tactics: Loosening foods: prunes and/or prune juice, bran (with plenty of accompanying liquid, be it water or milk), at least five servings of fruits... Full Answer
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- Q Can eating too much cheese make me constipated?
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Dr. Patricia Raymond, Internal MedicineCheese always gets an unfair rap when constipation is the topic. It’s the lack of fiber if you consume a whole wad of cheese, and not something specific to cheese. Try eating your cheese with whole wheat Triscuits and vegetable... Full Answer
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- Q Should I be tested for constipation?
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If you are suddenly experiencing less frequent or more difficult bowel movements, you may have developed acute constipation. This may be caused by insufficient fiber, fluids, and exercise, or a variety of other reasons. If left untreated, acute... Full Answer
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- Q How is the cause of constipation determined?
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Since constipation may have one or more causes, it is important to identify the reason(s) for the constipation in order to correct the problem as simply, and as specifically, as possible. Several tests of intestinal and anal function are available to... Full Answer
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- Q What can be done to treat and prevent constipation?
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If you are constipated, you are having trouble with bowel movements (pooping). Constipation is uncomfortable, but it's usually not serious. In some cases, you may need to see a doctor. Here are some things you can do to prevent and treat... Full Answer
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- Q Why do I get constipated when I travel?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyEscaping to a sandy beach or traveling through Europe may seem like a relaxing way to spend your vacation, but there's one part of your body that may be on edge until you return home. Many people complain of constipation when they travel. This common... Full Answer
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- Q What are the dietary recommendations for someone with constipation?
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Dr. Michael T Murray, Naturopathic MedicineIt is well established that a low-fiber diet causes constipation. Equally well established in treating chronic constipation is the efficacy of dietary changes that increase fiber intake. A high-fiber diet, plentiful fluid consumption, and exercise are an... Full Answer
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