Millions of Americans visit the doctor for constipation each year. If you're one of them, get the dedicated, expert-level care you deserve by visiting Hattiesburg GI Associates PLLC, which has two locations in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Their experienced team can help patients find long-lasting relief from constipation and many other conditions. Call the office nearest you, or you can request your appointment online today.
If you only have one or two bowel movements per week, you’re considered constipated. This condition is characterized by an inability to pass a stool, a stool that’s difficult to pass, and the sensation that you haven’t emptied your bowels completely even after passing a stool.
Just because you haven’t passed stool in a day or two doesn’t necessarily mean you’re constipated. Some people only pass stool three times a week and are completely healthy. But if you feel like you have to strain to pass a stool regularly or you are consistently unable to empty your bowels fully, you could be living with constipation. This condition can be uncomfortable and can get in the way of your ability to enjoy your daily activities.
If symptoms of constipation have persisted for at least three months, you have chronic constipation. Whether your constipation has lasted weeks or months, Hattiesburg GI Associates PLLC can help you find relief. To do so, they work with you to identify the root cause of your constipation.
A variety of factors can cause constipation. Some of the most common causes include:
To best treat your constipation, your Hattiesburg GI Associates PLLC provider takes the time to identify what’s causing it. This way, they can deliver not just short-term relief, but a long-lasting solution that prevents you from experiencing constipation in the future.
Once they find the cause of your constipation, your physician tailors a treatment to address it. Generally, that starts with lifestyle modifications. These are often very effective at improving your body’s ability to pass stool comfortably and regularly. Some of the most common lifestyle changes for constipation include:
Your provider can offer other treatments as needed. These may include laxatives, other medications, or training for your pelvic muscles.
Constipation doesn’t have to be a regular part of your life. To get started with effective treatments that your body needs for regular bowel movements, call Hattiesburg GI Associates PLLC, or request your appointment online today.