Constipation in Northwest Arkansas
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Find a ProviderWhat is constipation?
Constipation is a common disorder characterized by an individual having fewer than three bowel movements over one week. Constipation can happen when your stool dries out in the colon and becomes hard, making it difficult or painful to pass. Stool can become dry if it migrates too slowly through the gastrointestinal system or stays in the large bowel for too long. Should you pass less than three bowel movements within one week, we recommend visiting a gastroenterologist at GI Alliance of Arkansas. Reach out to our gastroenterology office in Arkansas today to request a consultation.
What causes constipation?
Stool might pass through your colon slower than usual for a number of possible reasons. Some causes of constipation involve:
- Colorectal cancer
- Colon stricture
- A bowel obstruction
- Damaged nerves around the rectum or colon
- Rectum bulge through the back wall of the vagina
- Anal fissure
- Cancer of the rectum
How can I relieve constipation?
In some cases, constipation can be alleviated by adopting healthier lifestyle routines. Several healthy habits to follow to help you minimize the chance of constipation include:
- Eating more dietary fiber
- Avoiding dairy
- Taking probiotics and prebiotics
- Consuming more water
- Getting regular exercise
Select nonprescription medications can be a great solution to constipation. However, we recommend speaking with one of our Arkansas gastrointestinal physicians first, given that constipation can sometimes point to a more concerning condition.
What foods have high amounts of fiber?
If you are trying to add more high-fiber foods to your diet, the below-listed options may help you pass stools more easily:
- Kidney beans, lima beans
- Whole-wheat bread, seven-grain bread, Wheatena®
- Whole-grain cereal, cold All-Bran, Total Bran Flakes, hot oatmeal
- Cooked black-eyed peas, cooked zucchini
- Acorn squash, raw Brussels sprouts, raw spinach, raw broccoli, raw cauliflower, raw carrots, raw cabbage
- Raspberries, peaches, tangerines, apples
For further information on changing your eating habits, please call GI Alliance of Arkansas to connect with one of our licensed dietitians.
Should I see a GI doctor about constipation?
The majority of individuals struggle with constipation at some point throughout their lives. However, chronic constipation could be indicative of a more serious health concern. If constipation has been occurring on a persistent basis, please consult a GI doctor at your earliest convenience. In addition to identifying, treating, and helping to manage digestive conditions, the gastroenterology team at GI Alliance of Arkansas can screen for any, more concerning ailments. To get help for constipation in Arkansas, please reach out to one of our nearby locations today.
Reviews
This group is absolutely "Top Notch". While I don't know of anyone that enjoys ANY part of a colonoscopy, they are something we do for our health/life sustainability. GI Alliance of AR made the entire procedure totally painless and tolerable. Dr Paschall was great, the entire staff put me at ease. I would highly recommend Dr Paschall and GI Alliance of Arkansas!
Professional, friendly, efficient. It was an excellent experience.
Sidney Vinson, M.D. is an excellent doctor who carried out a procedure of my wife. He is highly-qualified & professional doctor. I recommend others to take his service. Thx.
Dr Ellison was great! He took his time and answered my questions before and after the procedure. A+ for the staff!!!!!!
Very sufficient, conveniently located, dedicated to well being of the patient.
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