Constipation in Houston, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is constipation?
Constipation is an issue typically characterized as experiencing less than three bowel movements in the span of one week. This disorder occurs when the stool in the GI tract becomes too dry and hard. Stool will become dry if it migrates too slowly through the gastrointestinal tract or stays in the large intestine for longer than normal. In the event you pass less than three bowel movements over the course of a week, it may be time to meet with a gastrointestinal specialist at Gastroenterology Consultants. Contact our GI practice in Houston, TX today to schedule an appointment.
What causes constipation?
There are a number of reasons why your stool would slow down in its progression through your GI system. Common reasons for constipation include:
- Anal fissure
- Rectum bulge through the back wall of the vagina
- A bowel blockage
- Colon cancer
- Colon stricture
- Damaged nerves around the colon or rectum
- Rectal cancer
Are there ways to relieve constipation?
One of the best ways to relieve or prevent constipation is to adopt healthier lifestyle habits to aid your digestive process. Good habits to adopt to help you avoid constipation include:
- Eating more dietary fiber
- Taking prebiotics and probiotics
- Regular exercise
- Avoiding dairy products
- Consuming more water
Some over-the-counter medication options are a helpful way to alleviate constipation, but we recommend consulting with one of our Houston, TX digestive health specialists first, given that constipation can at times indicate a more concerning issue.
What foods have high amounts of fiber?
Patients wanting to add more high-fiber foods to their diet may benefit from some of the following options:
- Wheatena®, seven-grain bread, whole-wheat bread
- Lima beans, kidney beans
- Cooked zucchini, cooked black-eyed peas
- Hot oatmeal, whole-grain cereal, Total Bran Flakes, cold All-Bran
- Apples, peaches, raspberries, tangerines
- Acorn squash, raw cabbage, raw Brussels sprouts, raw cauliflower, raw spinach, raw carrots, raw broccoli
To learn more about improving your nutritional habits, please call Gastroenterology Consultants to consult with one of our licensed dietitians.
When should you see a GI doctor about constipation?
Constipation is a common digestive issue that most people will deal with at some point throughout their lives. But constipation that occurs frequently could be a sign of something far more concerning. If you have been dealing with constipation on a persistent basis, we urge you to meet with a gastrointestinal physician at your earliest convenience. In addition to identifying, treating, and helping to manage digestive conditions, the gastroenterology team at Gastroenterology Consultants can screen and test for any more serious issues. To find help for constipation in Houston, TX, please get in touch with us today.
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My visit to doctor r a o was very pleasant. I would recommend her to anyone I know who might need her services.
Dr. Rao is an amazing Dr i've been seeing her since 2014, her staff is wonderful also.
First tine going and listened and cared
They are on time for my appointment, like the service. I travel from North of Houston to Pasadena, because I want to keep my medical care with him.. It is excellent..
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