Constipation: one in five French people concerned, how to get out?

“Constipation is still a taboo subject,” notes Dr. Furthermore, Vincent de Parades, head of the medico-surgical proctology department at Paris Saint-Joseph hospital. In addition, “And yet, I do not know any more frequent pathology. In addition, It is essential to talk about it seriously, without detour. Consequently, »»

What is constipation? – Constipation: one five french people

“We are talking about constipation as soon as we have less than three spontaneous evacuations per week. For example, but also in the event of difficulty going to the saddle, even if the rhythm of evacuation is daily,” explains Dr. Nevertheless, Carole Prothe, gastroenterologist, and proctologist at the Paris Saint-Joseph hospital. For example, “It can be hard stools, an incomplete feeling of evacuation, a need to push to achieve it. Therefore, As for the notion of “chronic”, it applies when these disorders have persisted for more than three to six months. For example, constipation: one five french people »»

According to Dr. Similarly, Prothe, “in 90 % of cases, there is no underlying disease: we then speak of idiopathic constipation. Meanwhile, It is often linked to poor diet, lack of physical activity, stress or unusual situations (such as a trip). Certain pathologies can however be involved, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, proctological pathologies, neurological diseases …. hence the interest of consulting at least once to verify the thyroid function for example if your doctor deems it necessary. »»

More affected women – Constipation: one five french people

If he may concern everyone, this digestive disorder more severely affects the elderly. “They often move less. drink little, have several pathologies and take many drugs, some of which promote constipation: antidepressants, analgesic, antiparkinsonian … In women constipation is twice as frequent as in men. They are sometimes more sensitive to these disorders, even if no medical cause is identified. »»

In general according to Dr. Parades. “the way of life plays a major role: many people no longer listen to their need to go to the saddle, because they do not have time, or because the toilets are unsuitable, at work or elsewhere. Result: the stool accumulates, harden, and the need disappears. »»

Exercise. a lot of water and fibers

Before considering any drug treatment, constipation is primarily taken care of by simple measures, but often neglected “physical activity is essential: no need to do intense sport, walking is more than,” says Dr. Prothe. “You must also drink enough – at least 1.5 liters per day – and favor waters rich in magnesium. Then it is advisable to consume more fibers. found in pulses, complete grain products and seeds (chia seeds, oat sound, etc.). Please note, it is better to gradually increase the fibers and constipation: one five french people promote soluble fibers to avoid bloating. If that is not enough, drug treatment can be envisaged.

What to do in case of brutal constipation?

According to Dr. Prothe, constipation of sudden appearance, accompanied by abdominal pain or blood in the stool, must evoke an organic cause. “There may then be an indication to make a colonoscopy to search for a polyp or a tumor. It is up to the doctor to judge. but you have to consult, because some colon cancers can start with constipation linked to transit blocking. »»