Constipation vs. Diareah?

Causes of constipation may differ depending on the person. For instance, while constipation may be a result from a poor diet in one person, it could be the result of taking medication in another.

Poor Diet – A diet low in fiber and water consumption can lead to constipation. Eating too many dairy products such as milk and cheese, and foods high in starch such as potatoes, white pasta, white bread, and rice, can trigger constipation.

Medication – If you are taking medications to treat other Crohn’s symptoms, or another condition, one of the side effects of these drugs could be constipation, taking too many laxatives can actually have the opposite effect and result in constipation.

Stricture – Sometimes the cause of constipation in Crohn’s disease is due to a slight obstruction in the small intestine called a stricture. A stricture is an abnormal narrowing that occurs in a natural passage in the body, in the case of Crohn’s the small or large intestine. Strictures result from ulcerations and scar tissue. The obstruction in the intestine slows down digestion and creates problems – constipation.


Up your insoluble fiber intake – There are two different types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Although both sources of fiber should be apart of your diet, if you are constipated, insoluble fiber is more beneficial to you because it helps to move food through your intestines. It is this fiber that encourages regular bowel movements. Excellent sources of insoluble fiber include dark green leafy vegetables, fruit skins, corn bran, and whole-wheat products.

When there is enough fiber in your diet, stools should be soft and passed without problem. If you have a problem naturally increasing your fiber intake, talk to your doctor about fiber supplements.

Drink plenty of water – Most people don’t drink enough water and this can lead to chronic dehydration and cause constipation. You need to make sure you are well hydrated by drinking the recommended eight, 8oz. glasses of water daily, and avoid caffeinated drinks that lead to dehydration.

Exercise – Exercise improves your overall health, reduces the risk of constipation and can even prevent it. By improving your body’s circulation and increasing your energy, you are providing your body with the power it needs to digest food.

Drugs – if your constipation is severe (lasts for more than 2 weeks) it’s time to consult your doctor about taking laxatives. Although these meds are available without prescription, it’s a good idea to seek the opinion of your doctor first. You should never abuse laxatives, as this will only cause further complications with your colon.

When you prevent and effectively treat constipation, you will avoid ugly complications that can arise from chronic constipation such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.


:)

I think it just depends on the person. Some people with CD have diarrhea and others constipation, and it's both "normal" for CD, although a lot of people are surprised to hear that. I've had both. It's never been about the food I eat or drink or anything like that.

A friend of mine told me that that's how her CD started but that it got worse with time and now it's just diarrhea.

It's not good to have constipation but it's a whole lot easier than having diarrhea. What do you think?

I have almost always suffered with more C than D. Right now I think mine is because I live on a low residue diet all the time. Not alot of fiber in it. But I have the stricturing type of Crohns, and think this is pretty common with that type of Crohns. I take a stool softner every night to help soften things up so I have a BM everyday. If I don't I hurt really bad, just missing one day.