Doctors Say This Should Be Your First Move for Constipation Relief
AOL.com • • health
Key Points:
- Constipation can be caused by changes in routine, diet, dehydration, lack of exercise, certain medications, and behavioral or environmental factors, especially during travel.
- Home remedies to relieve constipation include using a footstool to squat while on the toilet, drinking more water, consuming coffee or kiwis, eating a high-fiber diet, and increasing physical activity.
- Over-the-counter laxatives and magnesium supplements can provide relief for acute constipation but should be used cautiously and not as long-term solutions without medical advice.
- Persistent constipation lasting several weeks or accompanied by other symptoms should prompt a medical consultation to rule out underlying conditions like IBS, IBD, thyroid disease, or colorectal cancer.
- Doctors recommend lifestyle changes first, but they can also prescribe medications or recommend diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy if necessary.
