Constipation is a common problem that can cause a lot of discomfort to the victims. It typically occurs when something interferes with the digestive system and food isn’t properly broken down. Due to a variety of reasons, gasses tend to accumulate in the victim’s stomach, and these can cause discomfort and even pain. In social settings, it can cause a great deal of embarrassment as the victim may find themselves passing gas constantly. They may also belch, releasing foul-smelling gases. As the years go by, our bodies lose their natural ability to digest food properly. This is the reason your loved one may be especially prone to this problem.
If your loved one is in an assisted living home in Venice, FL, here is how this problem is managed.
Choosing The Right Food
While some people are prone to suffering constipation, there is also a link between some food items and the condition. In other words, some people are likely to suffer constipation if they eat certain food items as opposed to others. What this means is that by eliminating certain food items, the risk of getting constipation may be reduced. Changing one’s diet might also include having food items that reduce the chances of constipation. It is known that food items that are rich in fiber are good for reducing constipation. If your loved one is prone to this problem, one way of solving the issue could be to include more fiber-rich food in their menu.
Exercise
One of the lesser-known facts about constipation is that there is a link between exercise and constipation. Not working out enough can lead to an increase in cases of constipation. For this reason, it is important to ensure that your loved one gets to be as physically active as possible. This will vary from one individual to another, but the general idea is that they get to be physically active. In retirement communities, there usually are all kinds of events and activities that are organized for the residents. However, exercising in this case does not av to be a complex workout regime. It can be something as simple as taking a walk every now and then.
Hydration
Not drinking enough water can sometimes lead to constipation. Water is a natural lubricant in the body and also helps to promote metabolic processes such as digestion. If you are not taking enough water, there is a risk that your digestive system will not work as it is supposed to. If your loved one is prone to suffering from constipation, one effective way of helping them is by getting them to drink as many fluids as possible. Drinking water offers a lot more benefits to their health so it is a great habit to develop.
Medical Treatment
If the condition persists even after all these interventions, a medical solution might be required. Doctors may prescribe medicine such as laxatives or in severe cases, might even recommend surgery. However, the latter is a drastic step and is only used when no other intervention has failed to work.
