Trouble pooping? Here’s why

And how to go about treating each one.

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In a Nutshell Everyone has trouble pooping from time to time, but did you know that 16 out of 100 U.S. adults live with constipation? This means they poop fewer than 3x per week, pass dry or hard stool, strain and have pain, or still feel full after going to the bathroom. I always thought there was just one type of constipation. Recently, I learned there are two main categories, one of which has four subtypes. Yes, four! Let's break down the differences between the types of this common digestive issue below, plus what to do about them. • 11 foods that are good for your liver • 13 outdoor workout ideas for warmer weather • How to spot (and treat) a vitamin E deficiency Be well, Morgan Mandriota Newsletter Editor, Healthline

Written by Morgan Mandriota May 13, 2024 • 2.5 min read

what's got us buzzing Different constipation types and how to find relief Primary constipation stems from issues that directly affect the function of your colon. There are four different subtypes:️ Normal transit constipation: This is the most common type. Your colon works as it should, but you might experience difficult bowel movements, hard stool, bloating, or abdominal pain. Treatments include eating more high fiber foods, drinking enough water, and exercising. Slow transit constipation: This happens when poop moves slowly through the colon. This subtype is rare and usually happens due to nerve issues in the colon. High fiber foods, hydration, and exercise can offer relief here, too. Outlet constipation: This is caused by pelvic floor dysfunction. The pelvic floor includes muscles that support the bowel, bladder, and uterus, which can lead to trouble passing poop. Pelvic floor therapy can help strengthen those muscles, but medication or surgery may be needed in some cases. Idiopathic constipation: Another common subtype, this one is usually long-term or chronic. It means that a doctor can't identify a reason for your symptoms. They may recommend prescription-strength laxatives, other medication, or surgery. Secondary constipation comes from an underlying medical condition, medication, or lifestyle habits. Potential causes include not drinking enough water, side effects from pain relievers or antidepressants, or neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis. Treatments involve treating the root cause. ️ If you're looking for more general tips for temporary relief, these exercises and home remedies can help. ️ best pooping position for constipation

Great finds Pop a squat on the pot       Squatty Potty Original Toilet Stool Your poop position matters! And sitting on the toilet at a 90-degree angle isn't the most efficient one. Squatting can help loosen your muscles to reduce strain and how long you're on the toilet. The Squatty Potty is a support stool designed to help you get into a squat so you can go more easily and comfortably. I've never tried it, but with over 5,000 5-star reviews and friends who swear by it, I definitely believe the hype! SHOP NOW Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline's or Optum Store's vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Store are owned by RVO Health.

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Thanks for reading! Today, we talked about going one way. Wednesday, we'll talk about letting go in a different way. See you then.

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