It’s natural to suffer from constipation every once in a while. Maybe your body is adjusting to a new schedule on vacation, or you’ve simply been consuming less fiber lately. If you suffer from chronic constipation that lasts for more than a few days, though, you should talk to a gastroenterologist at Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home in Gloversville, NY.

Diagnosis

To effectively treat your constipation, your doctor must first determine the cause. Possible causes of chronic constipation include a less fiber in your diet, a lack of fluids, a sedentary lifestyle, and certain medications. Constipation can also arise as a result of various medical conditions that cause issues in the gastrointestinal tract. Conditions that contribute to constipation include diabetes, lupus, and irritable bowel syndrome, and you will need to find ways to manage them to effectively eliminate the side effects.

Treatment

The most effective treatment option will depend on the underlying cause of your constipation. Your gastroenterologist might recommend making changes to your diet or adding more physical activity to your daily routine. Sometimes, a gentle laxative is all you need to get your bowels moving again. If a more serious health issue is affecting your gastrointestinal tract, however, your doctor will help you explore all of your options to determine the best way to proceed. At the end of the day, seeking treatment might be scary, but living with chronic constipation is worse.

If you are suffering from chronic constipation and you need relief, turn to Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home in Gloversville. Their family practice offers everything from adult medicine to women’s health care. Visit their website to learn more about the various health services they provide, and call (518) 725-8621 to make an appointment with a gastroenterologist today.