Constipation Treatment
Regular bowel movements are important for overall health. If you have less than three bowel movements a week, it is considered constipation. Hard or infrequent bowel movements can cause complications and may be a sign of a more serious health condition. At Beverly Hills Concierge Doctor, we offer chronic constipation treatment and diagnosis at our urgent care center in the Los Angeles, CA, area.
Constipation occasionally is a normal occurrence for most people. However, when you have infrequent bowel movements or stool that is hard, lumpy or difficult to push out for weeks on end, it is considered chronic constipation. This can lead to complications from the effort and strain to empty the bowels and it may be a sign of other health issues.
Causes of Chronic Constipation
When you feel bloated or have lower abdominal pain due to chronic constipation, it could be caused by a variety of issues. Some of the possible causes of chronic constipation include:
- Blockages – Bowel obstructions, anal fissures, bowel/rectal cancer and other conditions can create blockages.
- Neurological problems – Nerve issues around the rectum and bowels can cause chronic constipation.
- Muscle weakness – Loss of muscle function or weakness can make it difficult to eliminate the bowels.
- Dehydration – If your body is low on fluids, it can contribute to constipation. Certain health conditions can impact hormones and fluids, leading to hard-to-pass stools.
Poor diet, lifestyle factors and medications can also cause constipation. When determining the cause of chronic constipation, our board certified doctors will consider all the possible contributing factors to determine the best treatment plan.
Relief from Constipation
Diagnosis of the cause of constipation is the first step for relief. There are several tests and imaging procedures that can be used for diagnosis. Treatment for constipation may include diet and lifestyle changes, laxatives, medications and bowel-emptying procedures.
If you have chronic constipation and abdomen pain, come see us at Beverly Hills Concierge Doctor. Contact our urgent care center in Los Angeles for a same day appointment or ask about our doctor house call service.