Constipation in Washington
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Find a ProviderWhat is constipation?
Constipation is a gastrointestinal (GI) issue typically characterized by passing fewer than three bowel movements weekly. Constipation happens when the stool in the digestive tract is too dry and hard. Stool can become dry if it moves too slowly through the GI tract or stays in the large bowel for an extended time. If you pass fewer than three bowel movements in one week, it may be time to consult a gastrointestinal provider at Washington Gastroenterology. Contact a local gastroenterology facility in Washington today to schedule a consultation.
What causes constipation?
There are several reasons why your stool might pass slower than usual through the digestive tract. Common reasons for constipation include:
- Colorectal cancer
- A bowel blockage
- Narrowing of the colon
- Anal fissure
- Rectum bulge through the back wall of the vagina
- Damaged nerves around the colon or rectum
- Rectal cancer
How can I relieve constipation?
Incorporating healthy habits into your lifestyle can help relieve problems with constipation. Some healthy habits to follow to prevent constipation include:
- Consuming more water
- Getting regular exercise
- Taking probiotics and prebiotics
- Avoiding dairy
- Consuming more dietary fiber
Certain nonprescription medications can be an excellent way to relieve constipation. However, we recommend speaking with one of our Washington gastrointestinal specialists first since constipation can sometimes be a symptom of a more severe condition.
What foods are high in fiber?
If you are looking to add foods that are high in fiber to your diet, the foods listed below might be beneficial:
- Cooked black-eyed peas, cooked zucchini
- Peaches, apples, tangerines, raspberries
- Whole-grain cereal, Total Bran Flakes, cold All-Bran, hot oatmeal
- Lima beans, kidney beans
- Acorn squash, raw cabbage, raw Brussels sprouts, raw cauliflower, raw spinach, raw carrots, raw broccoli
- Wheatena®, whole-wheat bread, seven-grain bread
For more information on adjusting your eating habits, please call Washington Gastroenterology to partner with a licensed dietitian.
Expert care for constipation
Most individuals experience constipation at some point during their lives. But constipation that occurs frequently might be a symptom of a more concerning condition. If constipation has been affecting your life on an ongoing basis, we urge you to visit a gastrointestinal specialist as soon as possible. In addition to being able to diagnose, treat, and help manage digestive conditions, the GI experts at Washington Gastroenterology can screen for other, more severe ailments. To find help for constipation in Washington, please contact a local office near you today.
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She explained everything in detail for me and could not of been any better!
Caring people who get back to you right away...answer all my questions..had a telehealth visit with Shayla...she is very responsive and pleasant to talk to
Dr Leung is such a good person and dr! Very knowledgeable and friendly! I’m pleased with my experience!
I was treated comfortably and responsibly had no medical issues or concerns about my visit.
Was good experience. Told things to help me with constipation.
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