A chronic illness –

Chronic constipation is characterized by difficulty in evacuating or the inability to do so regularly, and if not treated in time, it might put your health at risk, for this reason, the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) in Yucatán reports regarding this condition that is very common, but with timely treatment and medical attention it is treatable.

In a statement, Dr. María José Frayre Torres assured that constipation has many possible causes, the most common being a lack of fiber in the diet and little or no physical activity. Other common reasons are: changes in life or routine, such as pregnancy, aging, stress, abusive use of laxatives and, mainly, not drinking enough water.

Although occasional constipation is very common, some people experience chronic constipation, which can interfere with their ability to perform daily tasks.

Signs of chronic constipation include: passing stools less than three times a week; having lumpy or hard stools; straining to defecate; feeling as if you have a blockage in your rectum that prevents you from having a bowel movement; feeling of not having a complete evacuation and abdominal bloating.

Constipation can be considered chronic if you had two or more of the above symptoms during the last three months.

If not treated in time, it can cause complications such as: hemorrhoids (swollen tissues around the anus), anal fissures, hard stools and rectal prolapse, which is when the internal tissues of the rectum come out of the anal opening.

To detect and provide adequate and timely medical treatment in case of constipation, the IMSS in Yucatán has Nutrition specialists who can provide an adequate diet based on the needs of each patient.

The health specialist recommended eating fruits and vegetables such as: papaya, orange, plum, carrot, broccoli, oats, lentils, chayote, and pumpkin, which are foods rich in fiber, and avoiding consuming large quantities of potatoes, apples, guava and rice. Drink plenty of natural or fruit water as well as infusions, and avoid consuming large quantities of coffee, bottled soft drinks or alcohol.

Likewise, the doctor mentioned that the Institute promotes a healthier life, through the different physical activation services offered at the Social Security Center, such as: swimming, basketball, dancing, cachibol, among other activities, and in this way maintain a better quality of life.

Finally, he emphasized how important it is to take into account that certain medications, such as: antacids, antidepressants or antihistamines, tend to cause constipation, in that sense, it is important that at the time of the consultation you inform your Medical Doctor. Familiar.