Constipation in Kansas City, MO
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Find a ProviderWhat is constipation?
Constipation is a gastrointestinal (GI) issue that is usually characterized by experiencing fewer than three bowel movements over one week. It happens when the stool is too hard and dry. This waste might become dry if it migrates too slowly through the gastrointestinal system or remains in the colon for too long. If you experience fewer than three bowel movements within a week, we recommend visiting a gastrointestinal specialist at Digestive Health Specialists. Reach out to our gastroenterology office in Kansas City, MO today to schedule an appointment.
What are the causes of constipation?
There are causes for why stool could progress more slowly than normal through your colon. Common reasons for constipation include:
- Colon stricture
- Rectum bulge through the back wall of the vagina
- A bowel blockage
- Colorectal cancer
- Anal fissure
- Cancer of the rectum
- Damaged nerves around the rectum or colon
Are there ways to relieve constipation?
Ensuring healthy habits are a part of your lifestyle can help alleviate problems with constipation. Some healthy habits to follow to help you avoid constipation involve:
- Avoiding dairy products
- Regular exercise
- Taking prebiotics and probiotics
- Consuming more dietary fiber
- Consuming more water
Selecting over-the-counter medications is a helpful way to relieve constipation; however, we recommend speaking with one of our Kansas City, MO gastrointestinal specialists first as constipation can at times point to a more concerning issue.
What foods have high amounts of fiber?
When you want to increase the amount of fiber in your diet, the foods listed below might be of some benefit:
- Cooked black-eyed peas, cooked zucchini
- Acorn squash, raw carrots, raw spinach, raw cabbage, raw cauliflower, raw Brussels sprouts, raw broccoli
- Wheatena®, seven-grain bread, whole-wheat bread
- Peaches, apples, tangerines, raspberries
- Whole-grain cereal, cold All-Bran, Total Bran Flakes, hot oatmeal
- Lima beans, kidney beans
For further information on altering your dietary habits, please reach out to Digestive Health Specialists to partner with one of our licensed dietitians.
Should I see a GI specialist about constipation?
Most people have constipation at some point throughout their lives. Chronic constipation, however, may be a sign of a more concerning health issue. If you have been dealing with constipation more frequently, please visit a GI specialist as soon as you can. Along with identifying, treating, and helping to manage digestive conditions, the gastroenterology team at Digestive Health Specialists can test and screen for any more serious ailments. To find help for constipation in Kansas City, MO, please reach out to us today.
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Friendly, relaxed atmosphere at the office. Come a little early for paperwork - there are a few things to review prior to the procedure even if you’re pre-registered. Nurses were great - made sure I was comfortable and at ease. Also met with anesthesia pre-procedure who was also very nice and professional. Dr “Sam” was great and answered all questions and was very thorough. Never felt rushed or unsure of staff!! Great experience for a colonoscopy!! Lol. The prep wasn’t too bad and I don’t remember anything until after it was all over!!
Friendly, knowledgeable, let me know exactly what was going to happen, explained results clearly and patiently.
I found Dr. Jones to be impressively “current” with regard to potential causes of my presenting issue. (Often, physicians who have been in practice for a number of years are not as “up to date” and informed as they might be).
Wonderful, wonderful doctor! He is so patient, friendly, and caring. Doctors like Dr. Shireman are hard to find!
Dr. Hagen always works on solving your stomach problem till he gets it solved. Everyone is very caring and understanding
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