Constipation Treatment

Constipation treatment, in mild cases, may only require dietary and lifestyle changes. In more severe cases, the doctor may recommend laxatives or enemas for short-term constipation treatment. Other forms of constipation treatment, such as biofeedback or surgery, may be necessary for chronic or extreme types of constipation.

 

An Overview of Constipation Treatment

Although constipation treatment depends on the cause, severity, and duration of the constipation, dietary and lifestyle changes can help relieve symptoms in most cases and also help prevent constipation in the future.
 

Diet Changes for Constipation Treatment

A diet with enough fiber (20 to 35 grams each day) helps form soft, bulky stool. This makes the stool easier to pass. A doctor or dietitian can help you plan an appropriate diet that is high in fiber. High-fiber foods include:
 
  • Beans
  • Whole grains and bran cereals
  • Fresh fruits
  • Vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and carrots.
     
For people prone to constipation, limiting foods that have little or no fiber (such as ice cream, cheese, meat, and processed foods) is also important as a way to prevent constipation.
 

Lifestyle Changes for Constipation Treatment

Other changes that can help treat and prevent constipation include:
 
  • Drinking enough water and other liquids such as fruit and vegetable juices and clear soups
  • Engaging in daily exercise
  • Reserving enough time to have a bowel movement.
     
In addition, the urge to have a bowel movement should not be ignored.
 
(Constipation Treatment Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD