It’s normal to experience constipation from time to time, but if your constipation is occurring weekly, then there may be something going on. At SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD, with two convenient locations in SoHo and the Financial district, Manhattan, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Orbuch and his team can determine the underlying cause of your constipation and develop a treatment plan to restore normal bowel function. For an evaluation, call your nearest New York City office or request an appointment online today.
Bowel function differs from person to person, but constipation occurs when you have fewer than three bowel movements a week and your stools are hard, dry, and/or are difficult to pass.
It’s not unusual to experience constipation on occasion, but ongoing constipation may be a symptom of an underlying gastrointestinal condition that needs more specific identification and should be evaluated by the experienced team at SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD.
Constipation usually occurs if the stool is moving too slowly through your colon or there’s a blockage preventing the stool from passing through. Some of the most common causes of constipation include:
Not getting enough fiber or drinking enough water can also lead to constipation. Your risk of constipation increases as you get older, and constipation occurs in women more often than men.
The team at SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD, conducts comprehensive examinations when you come to the office with concerns about constipation.
During your evaluation, the team reviews your symptoms and medical history and also asks questions about your diet and lifestyle.
To better understand the cause of your constipation, the team may request various tests, such as a blood or stool test, X-ray, MRI, colon transit studies or colonoscopy.
Initially, the team at SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD, may recommend changes to your diet and lifestyle to improve bowel movements and alleviate your constipation. This may include:
If your constipation doesn’t improve, the team may suggest medication, such as laxatives or gastrointestinal motility medications to improve bowel movements and function.
If your constipation is due to a blockage or obstruction, surgery may be needed.
If your constipation is due to weak pelvic muscles or dysco-ordination of pelvic or rectal muscles, physical therapy may be needed.
Constipation can be a symptom of an underlying health condition. To get answers to your health questions, contact SoHo Gastroenterology: Dr. Murray Orbuch, MD, by phone or online today.