Constipation is defined as a delay in bowel movements for more than 48 hours, with previously normal and regular defecation. Many people suffer from constipation; it is a common disorder, most often reported by children and elderly individuals, with women experiencing constipation more frequently than men.
Provoking factors may include: improper nutrition, gynecological surgeries, lifestyle, developmental anomalies of the intestine, injuries to the rectum and sigmoid colon, surgical interventions on abdominal organs, other diseases, with malignant or benign tumours in the abdominal cavity being particularly dangerous.
Despite its apparent insignificance, constipation can lead to acute conditions such as intestinal obstruction, fecal impaction, diverticulosis, and much more. Patients suffering from chronic constipation may develop accompanying diseases: hemorrhoids, inflammation of the rectum, anal fissures, etc.
Treatment of Constipation at Top Ihilov Medical Center
At the Top Ihilov Medical Center, a comprehensive treatment program is offered for patients suffering from constipation. Depending on the condition and indications, treatment may be conservative or surgical. The treatment process is accompanied by a tactful approach to patients' problems, creating a comfortable environment for patients, and excellent medical service.
- Surgical treatment is indicated in the presence of a tumour, large diverticula in the intestine, or acute conditions. The surgery is performed by highly qualified surgeons, and the type and method of intervention are determined by the disease.
- Conservative treatment includes a diet rich in plant-based products and foods high in dietary fiber: fruits, vegetables, bran, coarse black bread, etc. The diet requires a fluid intake of at least two liters per day, with small meals throughout the day (5-6 times). Treatment is accompanied by therapeutic enemas containing oils (fish oil, sea buckthorn oil, sunflower oil, etc.), and a lifelong diet is developed for the patient to follow after treatment. At the same time, medications are prescribed to improve intestinal peristalsis and regulate metabolism. Physical therapy is also included.
Diagnosis of Constipation
- consultation and examination by a gastroenterologist and proctologist. During the consultation, a medical history is collected, and a digital rectal examination is performed;
- consultation with a gynecologist. Mandatory for women;
- contrast irrigoscopy. A radiological examination of the intestine with the introduction of a contrast agent via an enema;
- colonoscopy. A traditional visual examination of the intestine using a colonoscope. The large intestine is examined over a distance of about one meter, accessed through the rectum. It is performed on an empty intestine after a series of cleansing enemas;
- stool analysis (if indicated);
- study of intestinal peristalsis and its functionality. This study is conducted using a series of X-ray images, with the patient taking a contrast agent orally;
- abdominal ultrasound;
- consultation with other specialists (if necessary, an endocrinologist, dietitian, neurologist, etc. may be invited to the patient).