29 May 2024
8 mins
World Digestive Health Day: Advances In Gastrointestinal TreatmentThe food that we consume every day travels through a long digestive journey to
become the energy our body needs to function. You might wonder at the supremacy
of the gut, yet we often forget to take care of it, despite its crucial role in
meeting our body's needs. For this reason, World Digestive Health Day is
celebrated to raise awareness about the significance of digestive health
worldwide.
What we eat is what we are!
WHAT IS DIGESTION?
Digestion is a sequence of events that takes place in our body to break down the
food we eat into valuable nutrients. These nutrients can be used for growth,
energy, and cell repair mechanisms. The food particles that are broken down are
then absorbed by the blood and carried into the cells for function throughout
our body.
WHAT IS THE WORLD DIGESTIVE HEALTH DAY?
World Digestive Health Day is celebrated on 29 May every year to commemorate the
45th anniversary of the World Gastroenterology Organisation. It is a day to
create and raise awareness about the importance of digestive health worldwide.
The theme for World Digestive Health Day 2024
[https://wdhd.worldgastroenterology.org/ongoing-wdhd-campaigns/wdhd-2024] is
"Your Digestive Health: Make It A Priority," which emphasizes the importance of
prioritizing digestive health in our daily lives.
WHY IS DIGESTIVE HEALTH IMPORTANT?
Digestion health is crucial to maintain the overall health of the individuals.
An impaired digestive system can trigger many problems in our body. Starting
from mild stomach upset to a life-threatening risk of cancer. Digestive problems
can relate to a number of health issues, such as fatigue, obesity, and food
allergies in individuals. Moreover, the disturbance in the gut microbiome can
lead to several chronic diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, obesity
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/health-care/world-obesity-day], and cancer.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF UNHEALTHY GUT
Some of the common symptoms of an unhealthy gut are given below:
* Stomach pain: Individuals may experience unusual stomach pain that can't be
reduced over a period of time.
* Vomiting: The patient may experience a feeling of forceful throw-up of the
stomach content.
* Diarrhea: Individuals may experience a loose or watery stool during the bowel
movement.
* Constipation: Patients may experience difficulty in passing the stool.
* Bloating and cramps: Patients may experience abdominal pain due to the
excessive accumulation of stomach gas.
* Blood in stools: Individuals may experience blood in stool due to the
gastrointestinal tract bleeding.
* Poor appetite: Patients may experience a loss of appetite or have a lack of
interest in eating the food.
* Trouble swallowing: Individuals may experience trouble or difficulty in
swallowing food or liquids.
* Weight loss or poor growth: Individuals may experience an unusual weight loss
or poor growth (in children) due to the loss of appetite.
GUT ENEMIES: 9 COMMON GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS UNMASKED
Some of the most common gastrointestinal disorders which can affect our gut
health are given below:
1. Coeliac disease: It is an autoimmune disorder in which our own immune system
attacks the tissues in the small intestine when we eat a gluten rich food.
2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/ibs-symptoms-causes-treatment]
is a long-term condition in which the patients may experience abdominal pain
or discomfort with altered bowel habits.
3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): It is a range of stomach conditions, which
includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis as a common type.
4. Constipation: Constipation
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/types-of-constipation]
is a condition in which the patients may experience a less bowel movement (3
or less than three bowel movements per week).
5. Bowel Control Problems (Fecal Incontinence): It is also known as accidental
bowel leakage, which leads to the uncontrolled leakage of solid or liquid
stool from the bowel.
6. Diarrhea: It is a common condition in which an individual may experience
loose or watery stools, three or more times a day.
7. Diverticulosis & Diverticulitis: It is the development of small, bulging
pouches in the digestive tract of the individuals.
8. Acid Reflux (GER & GERD): Gastroesophageal reflux
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/heartburn-acidreflux-gerd-difference]
is a condition in which stomach acid moves backward from the stomach to the
esophagus (food pipe) of the patients.
9. Gastrointestinal cancer: It is an uncontrolled growth of cells in the
digestive tract and other parts of the digestive system.
5 ADVANCEMENT IN GASTROINTESTINAL TREATMENT
People are often unaware of the chronic gastrointestinal disorder (GI cancer),
which leads to an increase in the mortality rate due to the spread or prognosis
of the disease. To reduce these, Gastroenterology has gone through a
paradigmatic shift towards the treatment plans. Some of the advancements in the
gastrointestinal treatment are given below:
1. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is an extremely crucial breakthrough in
gastrointestinal malignancies. Immunotherapy methods like checkpoint inhibitors,
chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapies, and tumor vaccines have shown
promising output against gastrointestinal cancer.
2. Nanotechnology: Combining an evolving technology like nanotechnology with
immunotherapy can help to reduce the toxicity and increase the efficacy of
immunotherapy medicines.
3. Faecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT): It involves the administration of a
fecal solution from the healthy donors to reduce and treat the recurrent
Clostridium difficile infection by adding healthy bacteria into the recipient's
intestines. It also helps to treat gastrointestinal diseases like IBD, hepatic
steatosis, and encephalopathy.
4. Minimal invasive surgery: Minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy
and robotic-assisted surgery, can help to treat gastrointestinal cancer patients
with a small incision, which aids in faster recovery and reduces postoperative
pain.
5 Pro-Tips for gut health
Here are the five health tips for maintaining the health of the gut:
* Reduce stress for a healthy gut
* Quit-smoking
* Eat a proper diet
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/health-care/benefits-of-eating-healthy]
* Maintain a healthy weight
* Avoid alcohol consumption.
End-Notes!
Digestive health plays a major part in our overall health and when we forget to
take care of it, it might lead to several health disorders which not only affect
your gut but also affect your overall health. Research and development in the
field of gastroenterology can also aid in improving the patients who else are
suffering from gastrointestinal problems. On this World Digestive Health Day
2024, let's take an oath to make our gut happy and healthy.
6 Apr 2024
8 mins
Gut Feelings Matters: April Marks IBS Awareness MonthThe first step towards change is awareness! Every year in April, the world
recognizes and celebrates Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness Month. IBS is
widespread; the prevalence ranges from 5% to 10% globally. However, many people
go untreated, unaware that their symptoms point to a recognized medical
condition.
IMPORTANCE OF IBS AWARENESS MONTH
IBS patients reported worsening physical discomfort, exhaustion, and social
performance. IBS can be confidently diagnosed earlier with the help of early
screening, especially in the risk group. This could help to reduce the
disorder's high financial and human costs. Greater public understanding of IBS
can aid patients in overcoming the stigma associated with their signs and
symptoms so they can see a doctor sooner to get a diagnosis and start an
effective therapy. This explains why IBS Awareness Month is necessary and
significant.
HISTORY OF IBS AWARENESS MONTH
In 1997, the IFFGD declared April to be IBS Awareness Month. To combat the
challenges of a chronic GI disease, Ms. Norton and William F. Norton founded the
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)
[https://iffgd.org/about-iffgd/] in 1991. They changed the organization's status
from a local association to an international nonprofit. Since its inception,
IFFGD has given millions of people information, assistance, and support. The
IFFGD also conducts educational workshops on these specialized GI topics for
doctors and carers as part of its mission to help patients. The governing body
of the IFFGD comprises medical professionals, specialists in incontinence and
digestive health from a variety of healthcare fields, as well as non-medical
experts from the legal and commercial sectors.
ABCD OF IBS SYMPTOM
Experts define IBS as a set of symptoms. These symptoms, known as the ABCDs of
IBS, include:
A is for abdominal discomfort
B is for bloating
C is for constipation
D is for diarrhea.
Other IBS symptoms include flatulence (gas), fatigue, depression, and stress.
WHAT CAUSES IBS?
Here are the three factors that can cause IBS. Irritable bowel syndrome is named
a multifactorial condition because of the following reasons:
The gut is your second brain
Have you ever wondered why IBS is known as a brain-gut disorder?
Every one of us experiences our emotions and expressions in the gut. We strongly
believe in our gut instincts because our brain and gut are connected through
several nerves and hormones, and it is a two-way process. So, exposure to
stressful conditions can affect your gut health and your serotonin (a feel-good
hormone) levels. Stress is the triggering factor to aggravate IBS symptoms. And
you may experience the IBS symptoms continuously, even after the pressure is
gone.
How Does Your Stress Impact The Gut?
When you are stressed out, your brain sends signals to your gut affecting its
functions that involve digestion primarily. This further leads to disruption in
the digestive process and gut bacteria, producing a bloated abdomen. As
digestion gets affected, gut motility is also altered, affecting your stool
frequency and changing its consistency.
Changes in gut flora or Microbial dysbiosis: Normally, our gut contains certain
microbes such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Millions of microorganisms reside
in our intestines and play an essential role in maintaining the integrity of gut
health. Surprisingly, there are trillions of bacterial cells present in our
bodies. The gut microbiomes control digestion, and if there is any alteration in
the gut flora, it can eventually lead to causing Irritable bowel syndrome. In
addition, these microbes also help regulate cholesterol, blood sugar, and body
weight levels.
Infection: IBS can also develop after gastroenteritis, an infection that causes
severe diarrhea.
Hormonal imbalance: "There is a link between your periods and IBS
[https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-your-period-makes-your-ibs-worse-1945377]"
because hormonal changes can make your gut sensitive, and IBS symptoms flare up.
Menstruating women are often affected by IBS due to fluctuations in their
hormone levels. The reason is that during menses, there is an increase in
prostaglandins responsible for causing inflammation and contraction of smooth
muscles that lead to diarrhea. But, before the onset of periods, your
progesterone levels dominate, which may cause slow bowel action that results in
constipation.
IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME PREVENTION
The following are some general hints for relieving irritable bowel syndrome
symptoms.
* Only eat handmade meals prepared using fresh ingredients.
* Avoid foods that are greasy, hot, or processed.
* Keep track of your dietary supplements and attempt to avoid things that cause
IBS by correlating your symptoms with the food you eat.
* Try not to skip or postpone any meals.
* Get plenty of meditation or other relaxation and fitness exercises.
* Avoid eating more than three portions of fresh fruit per day.
* A maximum of three cups of tea or coffee per day is permitted.
* Do not try to eat too quickly
* Avoid alcoholic beverages and fizzy drinks.
FACT SHEET - IBS
* According to research, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) prevalence in the
Indian community ranges from 10% to 20%.
* Women are up to 2 times more likely to have IBS than males.
* People under the age of 50 are more prone than those beyond the age of 50 to
acquire IBS.
* If you have a family history of IBS, you are likely to have IBS.
Always Trust Your Gut!
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a complex and frequently severe disorder
affecting millions worldwide. Even though there is no known cure for IBS,
several therapeutic options are available to assist control symptoms and
improving quality of life. It is critical to promote awareness about IBS during
IBS Awareness Month 2023 and encourage people to get proper diagnosis and
treatment.
We can assist in eliminating the stigma associated with IBS by educating and
advocating for better understanding among healthcare providers, family members,
and friends. We can work towards a future where IBS does not prevent people from
enjoying full and healthy lives by funding research and increasing access to
appropriate treatment options. We can make a difference and improve outcomes if
we work together.
13 Mar 2024
9 mins
Digestive Defense: How Diet Plays a Role in Colorectal Cancer Prevention?A healthy outside starts from the inside."- Robert Urich.
Diet plays a major role not only in maintaining overall health but also in
managing diseases and improving the efficacy of treatments. Colorectal health
has become integral to patient-centric care, particularly in addressing the
unique digestive issues associated with colorectal cancer. Today, we are going
to explore various diets involved in colorectal cancer and its management
strategies.
KNOW ABOUT COLORECTAL CANCER AND ITS PREVALENCE
Colorectal cancer
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/colorectal-cancer-awareness-month]
is a condition in which the cancer cells start to grow and spread in the
individual's colon or rectum (large intestine) region, which is involved in the
absorption and excretion of the food we eat.
It is the third common cancer
[https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/colorectal-cancer] and the
second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The silence in the early
stage and the lack of knowledge about the diet pave the way for the increased
victim and death cases of colorectal cancer.
IMPORTANCE OF DIET IN COLORECTAL CANCER
Colorectal cancer patients often struggle with eating due to symptoms affecting
the gastrointestinal tract. While colorectal cancer treatment
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/common-side-effects-of-colorectal-cancer-after-the-treatment]
helps overcome these symptoms and improves the quality of life, the side effects
that impact normal digestive processes may lead them to adopt restricted dietary
choices even after the treatment.
6 DIET FOR COLORECTAL CANCER
1. Dietary fiber:
Eating food rich in high dietary fiber content
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/health-care/benefits-of-eating-healthy] can
aid in lowering the risk of colorectal cancer in individuals. It helps to
increase the bulk of the stool, dilute the fecal carcinogen, and minimize the
time of food traveling through the intestine, thereby preventing or reducing the
contact of the carcinogen with colorectal lines.
2. Dietary calcium:
It is estimated that high consumption of calcium diets like yogurt, milk, and
fortified foods can lower the risk of colorectal cancer in individuals. Calcium
helps to stimulate differentiation, reduce proliferation, and induce apoptosis
in the colorectal cancer cell.
3. Whole grains:
It is estimated that consuming whole grains such as fiber-rich bran,
nutrient-packed germs, and starchy endosperm can aid in reducing the colorectal
cancer risk compared to refined grains. It will help provide nutrients, fiber,
and phytochemicals involved in regulating the cell signaling in colorectal
cancer cell formation.
4. Legumes:
Incorporating high-legume beans, peas, and lentils can help reduce patients'
risk of colorectal cancer. It will help reduce the cholesterol and glucose
levels in the blood, which contribute to the increase in risk.
5. Fish:
Eating fish can aid in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer in individuals.
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish possess anticancer properties that protect the
colon and rectum. Additionally, these have anti-inflammatory properties, which
help prevent the formation of polyps that may later develop into cancer.
6. Nuts:
It is recommended to eat nuts regularly to reduce the risk and recurrence of
colorectal cancer. Nuts contain high quantities of gamma-tocopherol, a form of
vitamin E that helps decrease cancer cell growth in the colorectal region.
6 DIET TIPS TO FOLLOW AFTER TREATMENT
Following a proper diet is important and aids in the fast recovery after cancer
treatment. Here are some of the diet tips that we need to follow after the
colorectal cancer treatment:
* Eating a small portion of meals after the surgery or treatment is
recommended.
* Eat a high-protein diet in the meals/ snacks for fast recovery.
* Drinking liquid calories like milk, juice, or soup is advised to get
appropriate nutrition after colorectal surgery.
* Gradually increasing the fiber content in your diet will help you overcome
the adverse effects of the treatment.
* Eat a little and frequent meal every 1-2 hours.
* It is recommended to eat at least a high-protein snack in between meals.
FOODS TO AVOID FOR COLORECTAL CANCER
* Red and processed meat: Eating excess red and processed meat can increase the
risk of colorectal cancer in individuals. The chemicals in red and processed
meat can induce the growth of cancer in the colorectal region. Hence, it is
recommended to avoid the red and processed for colorectal cancer.
* Oily and junk food: Eating oily and junk foods can worsen the symptoms of
colorectal cancer in patients. It is estimated that a high intake of
saturated fat can increase the risk of colorectal cancer in patients.
* Spicy foods: Eating excessive spicy food can damage the colonic mucosa,
which can increase the risk of colorectal cancer in individuals. It is
recommended to completely avoid spicy food during and after colorectal cancer
and its treatment.
* Refined starch and sugar: It is recommended to avoid refined starch and
sugar, which can increase the risk of colorectal cancer in patients. These
can also increase the possibility of diabetes, which in turn raises the risk
of colorectal cancer. Hence, try to eat some non-starchy vegetables like
broccoli, cabbage, carrots, and cauliflower.
WRAP IT UP!
Diet is a powerful tool in the battle of colorectal cancer. We need to use it
wisely to lower the risk of colorectal cancer and improve the outcomes of its
treatment. It is recommended to engage with your doctor and nutritionist to get
a tailored diet plan during and after colorectal cancer and its treatments. Your
gut needs special attention to prevent and protect it from the colorectal
enemies affecting your digestive health. Let's prioritize our gut health through
diet.
Diet is the essential key to all successful healing- Joseph Raynaud Raymond.
22 Feb 2024
7 mins
Gallbladder And Bile Duct Cancer DietIt's not a diet; it's a lifestyle change!
Diet plays a vital role in maintaining the overall well-being of an individual.
However, when it comes to gallbladder and bile duct health, your body won't
compromise on the quality of the food you intake. Your gallbladder is a delicate
organ that can produce bile to digest food properly. If these get affected, it
can lead to severe health and digestive issues. It is even more important to
follow a balanced diet to overcome the symptoms and risk of gallbladder and bile
cancer. Today, we are going to explore the foods that we want to add and avoid
during gallbladder and bile cancer.
KNOW ABOUT GALLBLADDER AND BILE DUCT CANCER
Gallbladder and bile duct cancer
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/gallbladder-bile-duct-cancer-awareness-month]
is a rare type of cancer that can lead to abnormal cell growth in the
gallbladder and the bile duct of the individuals. Your gallbladder is a bag-like
structure that helps to store bile produced from the liver. This bile gets
transported from the liver to the gallbladder through the bile duct.
NUTRITIONAL CHALLENGES IN GALLBLADDER AND BILE DUCT CANCER
Individuals with gallbladder and bile duct cancer are often facing difficulty in
digesting the foods they intake. This leads to several nutritional problems in
patients, which emphasizes the importance of incorporating a balanced diet and
avoiding certain foods on their plates. Bile plays a major role in breaking down
and absorbing the fat and fat-soluble vitamins in our meals, which can affect
gallbladder and bile duct cancer in individuals.
5 DIET FOR GALLBLADDER AND BILE DUCT CANCER
It is important to follow a cancer diet
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/anti-cancer-foods]if you are a
gallbladder or bile duct cancer patient. Some diet tips that need to be followed
for gallbladder and bile duct cancer are given below:
* Garlic and onion: Garlic has a potential anti-inflammatory property that
helps reduce the risk of gallbladder and bile duct cancer in individuals.
Moreover, eating allium foods like garlic and onion is involved in reducing
the recurrence of cholesterol gallstones
[https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0026049510000053]
(CGS)by promoting the breakdown of cholesterol in bile.
* Plant-based foods: Eating a plant-based diet of foods like fruits and
vegetables can lower the risk of gallbladder and bile duct cancer. Intake of
a high vegetable diet can help reduce gallbladder disease by lowering the
cholesterol level in our body.
* Vitamin C-rich foods: Consuming a diet that is rich in vitamin C, like
orange, broccoli, papaya, and tomato, can help reduce the risk of bile duct
and gallbladder cancer in patients. Bile duct cancer patients often face
difficulty in absorbing the fat-soluble vitamins (malabsorption), which leads
to vitamin deficiency in the body. In order to overcome this, it is
recommended to consume a water-soluble vitamin like vitamin C is recommended
to help reduce the risk of vitamin deficiency and improve the antioxidants in
the body.
* Turmeric: The curcumin in turmeric
[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3733655/] is helpful in
inducing the cell death process (apoptosis) in gallbladder and bile duct
cancer patients. Malfunctions in this process can lead to the growth and
progression of the cancer in the gallbladder and bile duct.
* Whole grains: Eating whole grains like oats, brown rice, and whole wheat
bread can help reduce the risk of gallstones in your body, which can increase
the risk of gallbladder in individuals.
5 FOODS TO AVOID
1. Undercooked/ salted Fish: A high intake of salted fish can increase the risk
of gallbladder and bile duct cancer in individuals. If you eat undercooked
fish food, it can increase the risk of parasitic infection (liver flukes)
[https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/bile-duct-cancer-cholangiocarcinoma/#:~:text=Parasitic%20infection,been%20contaminated%20with%20fluke%20eggs.],
which can cause bile duct cancer in individuals.
2. Red and Processed meat: Red and processed meat can induce the risk of cancer
in the gallbladder and bile duct due to the presence of carcinogens present
in them.
3. Junk foods: Junk foods contain excessive amounts of unhealthy fat, which can
increase the accumulation of fat in the gallbladder and the risk of
gallbladder cancer in individuals. Moreover, it is hard to digest for bile
cancer patients, which makes the condition worsen.
4. High-nitrate meats: Intake of high-nitrate meats (beef) in the diet can
increase the risk of gallbladder and bile duct cancer in individuals.
5. Pickled foods: Pickling foods like pickled vegetables or meats can raise the
risk of cancer in the gallbladder and bile ducts in individuals.
6. It is recommended to speak with your doctor/nutritionist about the diet plan
that you need to follow if you have gallbladder and bile duct cancer. It
will help you to follow a proper diet during the treatment or after the
treatment of gallbladder and bile duct cancer.
5 PRO-TIPS FOR GALLBLADDER AND BILE DUCT CANCER!
* Maintain a healthy weight: Being Overweight or obese can lead to weigh an
increased risk of gallbladder and bile duct cancer.
* Quit smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol drink can worsen the condition
in patients. Drinking excessive alcohol can damage the liver and bile duct in
individuals.
* Control diabetes: High blood glucose levels can increase the risk of cancer
in individuals. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels can aid in
reducing the risk of diabetes.
* Stay hydrated: Having enough water can help you maintain gallbladder and bile
duct health.
* Take enough rest: Sleeping can help your body get enough rest and maintain
the overall well-being of individuals.
END-NOTES!
It is crucial to take care of your health by following a healthy diet during
gallbladder and bile duct cancer. Eating unhealthy foods can make the condition
even worse and can affect the treatment's effectiveness. Adhering to your
treatment plan along with a diet plan can help you to recover fast from
gallbladder and bile duct cancer in an effective way.
28 Dec 2023
11 minutes
Constipation From MedicationsMEDICATIONS AND DIGESTION: AVOIDING THE CONSTIPATION PITFALL
Imagine you are being diagnosed with a disease that requires medicine for
relief, only to find out later that the very medications prescribed to you are
contributing to an unanticipated side effect: constipation.
For many people around the globe managing the maze of medications and their
side effects is a daily reality. For many of us, constipation is a common
digestive problem. However, it takes on another dimension when it comes as a
side effect of medication—one that's frequently hidden behind prescription
labels and pharmacy counters. Join us to uncover the stories behind the pill
bottle and bowel block to find a healthier, more comfortable life.
TOP 10 MEDICATIONS CAUSING CONSTIPATION: UNMASKING THE PILL BOTTLES:
1. Opioid pain medications:
Opioid induced constipation occurs in about 15% of the population
[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6549585/]consuming them for pain
relief. Opioid drugs can cause your intestines to retain more water in your
stool, which results in a hard, dry stool. Your stool remains in your intestines
longer than it should because of the slower movements and hard stool making it
difficult to pass feces. Some of the common drugs are:
1. Tramadol
2. Morphine
3. Fentanyl
2. Antidepressants:
The level of serotonin hormone in the gut may increase as a result of taking
some antidepressants. This extra serotonin slows down the normal movements of
your intestines. Slower gut movement means stool moves more slowly through the
intestines, making it harder for the body to push stool out, resulting in
constipation. Some of the common drugs are:
1. Amitriptyline
2. Imipramine
3. Fluoxetine
3. Iron supplements:
Iron supplements may cause your intestines to absorb more water and
electrolytes, which might result in firmer, dryer stools. Because it is dry and
firm, the stool might pass through the intestines more slowly your body finds it
more difficult to pass stool due to a combination of slower movement and tougher
stools.
4. Antipsychotic drugs:
These drugs slow down the regular muscle movements in the stomach that carry
food and waste through your intestines by inhibiting dopamine receptors in the
gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Because of the slower movement, more water may be
absorbed from the feces, making it tougher and dryer causing constipation. Some
of the drugs are:
1. Clozapine
2. chlorpromazine
5. Antihypertensive medications:
The typical rate at which food and waste flow through the intestines can be
slowed down by some antihypertensive drugs by slowing down these peristaltic
motions in the GI tract. As a result it causes firmer, drier stools. People may
find it difficult to pass faeces as a result of slower peristalsis and tougher
stools, which can lead to constipation. some common drugs are:
1. Verapamil
2. Clonidine [https://www.mrmed.in/medicines/arkapres-100mg-tablet]
3. Methyldopa
6. Anticholinergic drugs:
Anticholinergic medications can cause decreased peristalsis, by blocking the
effects of acetylcholine in the GI tract. Slower movements in the stomach might
cause stool to stay in the intestines longer than usual, which can absorb more
water from the stool and cause it to become drier and tougher.
7. Diuretics:
Diuretics may possess some kind of magnesium and potassium electrolytes
imbalances, severe imbalances of this can impact muscle contractions of
stomach and intestines which could slow down bowel motions and lead to
constipation. Some common drugs are:
1. Furosemide [https://www.mrmed.in/medicines/lasix-injection]
2. Hydrochlrothiazide
8. Antacids:
The action by which antacids function is to neutralize stomach acid. Sometimes
a large decrease in stomach acid can interfere with proper digestion by slowing
the passage of food and waste through the intestines, which can cause
constipation. Since an excessive amount of calcium and magnesium found in
antacids can have the above impact on the body, taking it in excess can
contribute to constipation.
9. Antispasmodic drugs:
Antispasmodic medications work to lessen spasms or contractions and ease
discomfort, but in certain people, they can also cause the GI muscles to relax
too much, which can temporarily slow down bowel motions and cause firmer, drier
stools, which can exacerbate constipation, by unduly relaxing the GI tract's
muscles.
10. Antiparkinsonian drugs:
Parkinson's disease, a disorder marked by a dopamine shortage in the brain,
dopamine is essential for controlling how the muscles in our gastrointestinal
(GI) tract work, which facilitates the easy passage of waste and food through
our intestines. Constipation can result from this natural cycle being disturbed
in people with Parkinson's disease.
10 KEY STRATEGIES FOR RELIEVING MEDICINE-RELATED CONSTIPATION:
Let's take a look at some effective ways to cope up with constipation caused by
medicines.
1. Stay hydrated:
Try to drink plenty of water throughout the day, the amount of water absorbed in
the colon directly affects the consistency of the stool. If there is
insufficient water in the colon, the stool can become hard and dry. On the other
hand, if the body is well-hydrated, the stool remains soft and moist.
2. Fibre up for easy going:
Try making up a diet plan
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/diet-plan-for-constipation-how-to-control]
that includes a lot of fibre since it encourages regular bowel motions and gives
stool more volume. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and
other high-fibre meals.
3. Regular exercise:
Try to engage in regular physical activities like yoga, walking or light cardio
everyday to make sure your digestive system functions properly.
4. Laxatives:
Medications or chemicals formulated expressly to encourage bowel motions and
relieve constipation are known as laxatives. Depending on their kind and mode of
action, they can assist relieve constipation in a variety of ways. Consult your
physician before taking any of these medications as specific types are essential
for your constipation. Various kinds of laxatives are available:
1. Stimulant laxatives ( senna, bisacodyl)
2. Osmotic laxatives (lactulose, milk of magnesia)
3. Emollient laxatives (docusate sodium or docusate calcium)
5. Add prunes or prune juice :
In addition to containing high fibre prunes also contain sorbitol which ferments
in the gut and absorbs more water into the stool
[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9531972/], this action producing
an laxative effect ultimately relieving your constipation.
6. Establish a routine:
Try to eat your meals at almost the same time each day, it can stimulate the
digestive system and ensure regular bowel movements, also many people naturally
have the urge to have bowel movements after meals or waking up and try
establishing regular and timely visits to the bathroom.
7. Avoid constipation triggers:
Stay away from foods that can cause constipation
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/foods-cause-constipation]
or stimulate the condition badly. Some foods to avoid include processed foods,
red meat, diary products, white flour, and alcohol. It is important to make a
note that not all these foods cause constipation, it may vary within
individuals, speak with your doctor if you feel your foods make your bowel sick.
8. Switching your medications:
Speak with your doctor and adjust the dosage of your medications or either
switch to alternative drugs if you suspect your constipation is caused by
medicines. This may relieve your sick bowel most of the time.
9. Add probiotics:
Probiotics contain various strains of good bacteria that promote and support gut
health. By restoring the microbial balance in the stomach supports smooth
movements and increased stool frequency. Consult your physician before taking
probiotics as it is important to choose the right strain for your constipation.
10. Enema:
A medical technique known as an enema involves inserting a liquid solution
through the anus into rectum. The liquid solution that is injected during an
enema aids in lubricating and softening the feces .This may provoke a bowel
movement and becomes a good option for people who need rapid relief from severe
constipation because they typically start to work within minutes to an hour of
administration. This medical procedure must be carried out only under medical
supervision.
FAREWELL TO CONSTIPATION, HELLO TO COMFORT:
In the era where medicines have become a day to day routine in each home an
unwanted guest silently accompanies behind our daily pills. Constipation and its
side effects
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/10-side-effects-of-constipation]
can significantly impact your quality of life . We have uncovered the mysteries
behind the medications causing constipation and gave you an insight into the
ways to overcome constipation. Let us overcome this bowel barrier and lead a
healthy life!
“Unblock, Unburden, Unwind”
18 Dec 2023
9 mins
Types Of ConstipationWhat is constipation? Constipation happens when you deal with uncomfortable or
not-so-frequent trips to the bathroom. If you are constipated, your visits to
the toilet result in passing small amounts of hard, dry stool – typically less
than three times a week. Your body might signal that it's time to make things
smoother in the bathroom.
What brings about this constipation? Join us in this blog as we uncover the
diverse types of this common condition.
TYPES OF CONSTIPATION
Constipation can be broadly classified into primary and secondary:
* Primary constipation either comes directly from an issue with the colon or
happens without a clear reason.
* Secondary constipation shows up because of lifestyle choices or an underlying
illness.
Constipation can also be classified as short-term (acute) or long-lasting
(chronic).
* Short-term constipation (acute) happens suddenly, maybe due to changes in
what you eat, your habits, or using certain medications for a short time.
* Long-lasting (chronic) constipation is a persistent problem that sticks
around.
UNDERSTANDING PRIMARY CONSTIPATION
Doctors sometimes call primary constipation "functional" or "idiopathic." These
words mean that constipation is the main health concern by itself, not caused by
another hidden medical problem or happens for unknown reasons.
Now, let's talk about the three kinds of primary constipation.
I. Normal Transit Constipation
Primary constipation comes in different forms, each with its quirks and
remedies. First up is the familiar normal transit constipation, where you might
sense a bit of constipation, but there is no need to fret—it's the most common
type. Stools here maintain their regular consistency and move through your
digestive system at a steady pace. You might experience some abdominal bloating
and pain, but fear not! The remedy trio includes upping your fiber intake,
staying hydrated, and throwing in a bit of exercise or yoga. If things don't
budge, laxatives are there to save the day.
II. Slow Transit Constipation
Next on the list is the elusive slow transit constipation, a rare condition that
tends to affect middle-aged females. This one tricks the usual bowel
stimulation, resulting in a sluggish movement of food through the digestive
tract and infrequent trips to the bathroom. The remedy playbook is pretty
similar: more fiber, ample water, a sprinkle of exercise or yoga, and, if
needed, the trusty laxatives after consulting your doctor.
III. Outlet Constipation
Lastly, we have outlet constipation, a situation where damage to pelvic floor
muscles, also known as dyssynergic defecation, wreaks havoc. The coordination
between the pelvic floor and anal sphincter goes a bit haywire, making it tough
to pass stools. This leads to uncomfortable symptoms like straining, delays in
bowel movements, and the occasional need for some hands-on assistance. The
superhero remedy for this one is biofeedback therapy, swooping in to restore
harmony between those pelvic muscles and your body's natural rhythm. So, whether
it's the regular traffic jam, the slow cruiser, or the tricky pelvic maneuvers,
there's a tailored plan to get things moving smoothly again!
What is a biofeedback therapy?
Biofeedback therapy [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3073852/]
involves a skilled therapist placing a small device in the anal sphincter. The
therapist then provides feedback, either visually or verbally, on how the person
is using their pelvic floor muscles and anal sphincter when they are having a
bowel movement. This feedback is behavioral therapy and valuable for helping the
person retrain and improve the coordination of their pelvic floor muscles,
overcoming outlet constipation.
DECODING SECONDARY CONSTIPATION
Secondary constipation happens when there's an underlying health issue or as a
side effect of certain medications. The usual suspects causing secondary
constipation include:
* Hypothyroidism
* Diabetes
* Brain or blood vessel-related diseases (like dementia)
* Depression
* Certain medications (like opioids and chemotherapy-induced constipation
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/diet-during-chemotherapy])
* Irritable bowel syndrome
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/ibs-symptoms-causes-treatment]
(IBS)
* Inflammatory bowel diseases (like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis)
Less common reasons for secondary constipation involve:
* Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals
* Tiny tears in the anal tissue (anal fissures)
* Nerve damage
* Spinal cord injuries
* Nervous system-related diseases (like Parkinson's disease and multiple
sclerosis)
* Colon cancer
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/colon-cancer-symptoms-causes-risk-factors-treatments]
TREATMENT FOR SECONDARY CONSTIPATION
If you're dealing with secondary constipation, the first thing to do is find and
fix what's causing it. Let's say you have diabetes that's not under control, and
it's causing nerve issues leading to constipation. In this case, taking charge
of your diabetes is crucial to help with the constipation.
Sometimes, surgery might be needed for folks dealing with secondary
constipation, especially if there's a troublesome part of the colon that needs
fixing or removing.
What Can You Do to Help? Supporting your gut health alongside medical treatment
can be a way forward. While adjusting your diet and increasing physical activity
won't directly address the main issue causing secondary constipation, these
changes can prevent the situation from worsening. So, consider being more
active, adding fiber-rich foods to your diet, and ensuring you drink enough
fluids. Avoid food that causes constipation
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/foods-cause-constipation]
and Try foods that relieve it. It's like providing your body with additional
support while the doctors focus on the primary problem.
FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE YOUR GUT HEALTH: RISK FACTORS
What can make you more likely to get constipated? Here are some things to keep
in mind:
1. Not Enough Water: If you don't drink enough water, your poop can become hard
and tough to pass. Water helps make your poop softer and move through your belly
better.
2. Lifestyle Choices: Certain lifestyle habits might cause or add to
constipation. Not moving around much, not eating enough fiber, and holding in
your poop for too long can be factors.
3. Gender: Females are more prone to constipation than guys. Things like
pregnancy or childbirth can also play a role, causing certain types of damage to
the pelvic floor.
4. Pregnancy: Changes in hormones during pregnancy can slow digestion, leading
to constipation.
5. Health Conditions: Some chronic health issues like hypothyroidism, diabetes,
or Parkinson's disease may cause constipation.
6. Medications: Certain medications can slow digestion or affect nerves, making
constipation more likely. This includes things like antacids, certain pain meds
(like opioids), some antidepressants, blood pressure meds, and medications used
for Parkinson's disease.
7. Using Laxatives and Enemas: Relying too much on laxatives and enemas for a
long time can make it harder for you to poop without them.
WHEN SHOULD I CALL A DOCTOR?
If you sometimes get constipated, and it gets better with things you do at home,
no worries.
But, it's a good idea to see a doctor if:
* Constipation sticks around, even when you try home remedies.
* You can't go to the bathroom without using laxatives every time.
* You notice constipation after starting a new medicine.
* You have extra symptoms like really bad stomach pain, blood in your poop, or
pain when you go to the bathroom.
TO SUM UP
So, in a nutshell, constipation can mean struggling with painful bathroom
moments or having fewer trips than usual. It's like a puzzle with different
pieces - primary or secondary, short-term or long-lasting. But the good news is,
for the everyday kind, you can try simple things like drinking more, eating
foods with lots of fiber, and moving around more. Just tweaking your daily
routine can make a big difference.
But here's the deal - if you let constipation stick around without doing
anything, it might bring some unwanted friends like stomach pain, bloody stools,
or hemorrhoids. So be aware and create awareness about constipation
[https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/constipation-awareness-month-2022].
If it's getting serious or hanging on for too long, it's time to chat with your
doctor, especially if other not-so-great signs are also showing up.
"Beat the bind, free your behind!"