Constipation is uncomfortable, especially when it becomes an ongoing problem. Cameron Sikavi, MD, at Innovative GI Health and Wellness in the Beverly Grove neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, is a skilled gastroenterologist who can create a plan to help improve your constipation by finding the cause of your symptoms. Call today or schedule an appointment online.
Constipation is a common digestion issue, causing stools that are dry, hard, and difficult to pass. The longer it takes for stool to pass through your large intestine, the more likely you are to experience constipation. In general, if you have three or fewer bowel movements a week, you may have constipation.
However, everyone’s bowel habits differ. Some people go a few times a day, while others only go a few times a week. Constipation occurs when there’s a change in your routine bowel habits that causes dry, hard-to-pass stool.
Constipation may occur from various causes, including lifestyle and medical conditions. Common causes of constipation include:
You can also develop constipation when there’s a change in routine. Understanding the causes of constipation can help you find relief from this uncomfortable condition.
You should seek help for your constipation at Innovative GI Health and Wellness when your constipation fails to improve within a few days or is an ongoing problem. Dr. Sikavi takes a comprehensive approach to care to fully understand the cause of your constipation.
He asks detailed questions about your bowel habits, usual diet and fluid intake, and exercise routine. He reviews your medical history and the types of medications you take.
He then performs a physical exam and may run some routine tests to rule out health issues that might explain your change in bowel habits. If needed, Dr. Sikavi may recommend advanced endoscopy, such as a colonoscopy, to better confirm or rule out a diagnosis.
Dr. Sikavi customizes your constipation treatment plan based on the underlying cause. The goal of your plan is to ease your constipation and normalize bowel habits to prevent a recurrence.
Initially, he may recommend lifestyle changes like adding more fiber to your diet, increasing your fluid intake, and getting regular exercise. He may also suggest a stool softener or a fiber supplement.
If there’s an underlying health issue causing your constipation, Dr. Sikavi may provide treatment specific to that cause.
When constipation fails to improve with at-home care, it’s time to schedule an appointment at Innovative GI Health and Wellness. Call or book online today.