Constipation Specialist

GI Physicians Inc.

Gastroenterologists located in Lima, OH

While it’s not uncommon to experience constipation once in a while, if you regularly have fewer than three bowel movements a week, Ven Kottapalli, MD, CNSP, and the team at GI Physicians Inc. are available to help. At their office in Lima, Ohio, they help patients determine the cause of their chronic constipation and find relief. If you’re ready to normalize your bowel movements, call the office or request an appointment online today.

419-228-2600

Constipation Q & A

What is constipation?

Constipation is a condition that makes it hard for you to pass stool. If you have fewer than three bowel movements each week, you’re technically constipated.

Constipation can interfere with your quality of life, leading you to spend extended periods straining or feeling like you can’t fully empty your bowels. What’s more, constipation can lead to other conditions like hemorrhoids or impacted stool.

Fortunately, the GI Physicians Inc. team of experienced gastroenterologists is available to help you find relief from your constipation. They know that this issue isn’t always comfortable to discuss, so they offer discreet, specialized care to help you resolve your constipation as quickly as possible.

What causes constipation?

There are many causes of constipation, and some are as simple as being dehydrated or not getting enough fiber in your diet. Other common causes of constipation include:

Bowel obstructions
Bowel stricture
Neurological problems
Certain medications
Trouble relaxing the pelvic muscles necessary for a bowel movement
Pregnancy
Hypothyroidism
A sedentary lifestyle
Colon or rectal cancer

To best determine the cause of your constipation, your GI Physicians Inc. provider can perform an anorectal manometry. During this minimally invasive procedure, a small device is inserted into your rectum and inflated. This allows your provider to test the functionality of your anal sphincter and rectum, helping them identify potential causes for your chronic constipation.

How is constipation treated?

The team at GI Physicians Inc. takes a conservative approach, first trying lifestyle changes to treat your constipation. They help you adjust your diet to get sufficient fiber and set and carry out a regular exercise plan. They may also recommend the temporary use of laxatives like stimulants or stool softeners.

If this first line of treatment doesn’t bring you lasting relief, your GI Physicians Inc. provider offers additional care like pelvic muscle training or medication. Their goal is to work with you to find a treatment that maintains comfort and regularity in your bowel movements.

If you regularly live with constipation, don’t wait to call GI Physicians Inc. or request an appointment online. Their team is available to help you find the right treatment to bring you lasting relief.

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