Constipation in Illinois
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Find a ProviderWhat is constipation?
Constipation is a gastrointestinal symptom that is commonly described as passing fewer than three bowel movements in one week. Constipation occurs when the stool in the GI tract is too dry and hard. Your stool can become dry if it moves too slowly through the GI system or stays in the large intestine for longer than normal. If you frequently have fewer than three bowel movements within a week, we recommend reaching out to your nearest of GI Alliance of Illinois' 22 locations to request a consultation with one of our providers.
What causes constipation?
There are many reasons why stool may pass slower than normal through your large bowel. Some causes of constipation are:
- A bowel obstruction
- Narrowing of the colon
- Rectal cancer
- Colon cancer
- Rectum bulge through the back wall of the vagina
- Damaged nerves around the colon or rectum
- Anal fissure
If you are experiencing frequent constipation, it is important not to ignore it and reach out to one of our highly qualified GI specialists at GI Alliance of Illinois so they may determine the cause.
Are there ways to relieve constipation?
Having healthy lifestyle habits can help solve problems with constipation. Several healthy habits to incorporate daily to prevent constipation include:
- Avoiding dairy
- Taking prebiotics and probiotics
- Eating more dietary fiber
- Consuming more water
- Getting regular exercise
Although some nonprescription medication options are a great way to alleviate constipation, we recommend consulting one of our Illinois gastrointestinal providers first since constipation can sometimes be a sign of a more serious issue.
What foods have high amounts of fiber?
When you are wanting to increase the amount of fiber in your diet, the foods listed below are great options:
- Peaches, apples, tangerines, raspberries
- Kidney beans, lima beans
- Whole-grain cereal, Total® Bran Flakes, cold All-Bran®, hot oatmeal
- Cooked zucchini, cooked black-eyed peas
- Wheatena®, whole-wheat bread, seven-grain bread
- Acorn squash, raw cabbage, raw Brussels sprouts, raw cauliflower, raw spinach, raw carrots, raw broccoli
To learn more about altering your nutritional habits, please get in touch with GI Alliance of Illinois to consult with one of our licensed dietitians.
Real relief for your frequent constipation
Most people experience constipation at some point in their lives. Frequent constipation, however, can be a symptom of a more severe condition. If frequent constipation has been interfering with your life, we encourage you to request a consultation to visit a gastrointestinal specialist at your earliest convenience. In addition to being able to diagnose and help manage digestive health conditions, the GI specialists at GI Alliance of Illinois can test for any, more concerning ailments and find solutions for your constipation in Chicago, Peoria, Hinsdale, and Bloomington, IL.
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