Constipation is a common digestive issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools, often accompanied by abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort. While occasional constipation is normal, chronic constipation can have a significant impact on quality of life and overall health. Fortunately, lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help manage constipation symptoms and promote regular bowel movements. Dr. Ivanina is a constipation specialist in NYC.
Symptoms:
- Infrequent bowel movements (less than three times per week)
- Difficulty passing stools
- Hard, lumpy stools
- Straining during bowel movements
- Feeling of incomplete bowel movements
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Anal fissures or hemorrhoids (from straining during bowel movements)
Possible Causes:
- Inadequate fiber intake
- Inadequate fluid intake
- Lack of physical activity
- Certain medications (e.g. opioids, antacids)
- Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
- Changes in routine (e.g. travel, shift work)
- Pregnancy
- Aging
- Neurological conditions (e.g. Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis)
- Pelvic floor disorders
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Hypothyroidism
- Diabetes
- Colon or rectal cancer
- Other digestive disorders (e.g. diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease)
Gastroenterologist and Constipation Specialist
Dr. Elena Ivanina, a quadruple board-certified integrative gastroenterologist, addresses gut health concerns. As a major aspect of this, she is a constipation specialist with comprehensive training. She approaches constipation as a symptom of underlying issues, employing functional medicine to create personalized treatment plans. Dr. Ivanina’s emphasis on holistic patient care involves viewing food as medicine and recognizing its impact on gut health, which plays a role in her solutions as a constipation specialist in NYC. Her expertise spans internal medicine, gastroenterology, preventive medicine, and obesity medicine. She combines her medical knowledge with advanced training in GI functional medicine to effectively address and alleviate constipation and related conditions.
Constipation FAQs
What is considered chronic constipation?
Chronic constipation is defined as infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools lasting several weeks or longer. Typically, if you have fewer than three bowel movements per week and experience hard, dry stools, straining, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation, you may have chronic constipation.
What is the difference between IBS and constipation?
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits, including diarrhea and constipation. Constipation, on the other hand, specifically refers to infrequent or difficult bowel movements. While constipation can be a symptom of IBS, IBS encompasses a broader range of digestive issues.
What types of treatments are available for constipation?
Treatments for constipation include dietary changes, such as increasing fiber and water intake, over-the-counter laxatives, and prescription medications. Lifestyle modifications like regular exercise and establishing a bowel routine can also help. For persistent cases, Dr. Ivanina a constipation specialist in NYC, may recommend specialized functional medicine approaches to identify and address the root cause.
When should I see a doctor for constipation?
You should see a doctor for constipation if it persists for more than a few weeks, is accompanied by severe pain, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or if it impacts your daily life. Dr. Ivanina can provide a thorough evaluation and personalized plans to address your symptoms.
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