IBS Constipation
Constipation predominant IBS
Patients suffering from this variant of IBS typically complain
of constipation often accompanied by abdominal pain or discomfort,
bloating, especially after meals. Other symptoms include passing
mucus in stool and sensation of incomplete evacuation. Pain is usually
relieved after bowel movement. Patients with constipation predominant
IBS may also report tiredness, nausea, gas, reflux, heartburn, and
in some situations headaches.
Constipation predominant IBS is known not to be caused by the lack
of fiber in the diet, inactivity, or insufficient water intake.
However, increasing exercise level, drinking a lot of fluids, and
including fiber in your diet may help alleviate the symptoms. IBS
patients need to be careful with fiber intake, though, as in some
individuals it can worsen the symptoms and considerably aggravate
bloating. That is why fiber must be gradually introduced, and the
patient should start with small doses which can be gradually increased.
The patient should also make sure that he or she includes both soluble
and insoluble fiber in the diet and strike the right balance between
the intake of insoluble and soluble fiber. Laxatives are one of
the most frequent OTC medications taken to relieve constipation,
but some laxatives can cause habit formation, especially if taken
over a longer period of time.
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