Bloating

Bloating is a sensation of ‘fullness’ and tightness within the abdomen. It may be accompanied by swelling of the abdomen (distension). Bloating due to the build up of gas within the gastrointestinal tract will often be relieved by belching or flatulence.

Bloating should be differentiated from angina pectoris and myocardial infarction which are two cardiac conditions that may not always result in pain but can be fatal.

continue reading Causes of Bloating and Gas (Flatulence)

Symptoms of Chronic Constipation

Constipation is considered chronic, when it lasts for more than 3 months. Symptoms include straining during the bowel movement, hard stool, abdominal pain or bloating, bad breath, weight loss. More about constipation symptoms.

Causes of Chronic Constipation

Causes of constipation include inappropriate diet, dehydration, inactivity, psychological causes, gastrointestinal and other chronic diseases, and drugs.

continue reading Chronic Constipation – Symptoms, Causes, Tests, Treatment

Complications of Severe Constipation

Severe constipation, acute or chronic, has to be treated promptly, otherwise complications mentioned below, may develop.

1. Bloating

Bloating and severe pain, usually in the lower left abdomen may result from gas, produced by normal intestinal bacteria that break down fiber in the stool stuck in the colon. The left side of the abdomen is distended and usually tender to touch. 

2. Lazy Colon

Lazy colon does not respond to presence of the stool in the colon and gastro-colic reflex that normally stimulate the bowel movement after food enters the stomach. Often even laxatives do not help. This poor colon activity may result from long term laxatives abuse, postponing bowel movements or prolonged bed rest. You often do not feel the urge to have a bowel movement. Lazy colon is a synonym for severe chronic constipation and does not mean a permanent colon impairment. You can achieve relief only by eliminating all possible causes of constipation and sticking with appropriate diet and active life style.

continue reading Severe Constipation – Extreme Pain, Complications