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Constipation

20% of the population has constipation, we know how to treat it 

Why the latest trend on social media is NOT going to solve your gut issues

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Constipation can decrease a person's quality of life significantly. In fact, its impact on quality of life is comparable to patients suffering from asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. 

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And, it's treatable

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What is constipation?

It can mean a lot of things to different people. But there is a medical definition of constipation:

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  • 25% of bowel movements are associated with at least two of the following symptoms in the previous three months with an onset of symptoms longer than six months: 

    • ​straining

    • hard or lumpy stools

    • a sense of incomplete evacuation 

    • a sense of anorectal obstruction 

    • the need for manual maneuvers

    • fewer than three bowel movements per week 

  • In addition, these people should also rarely complain of loose stool without the use of a laxative 

 

Causes of constipation

  • SIBO/IMO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth/ intestinal methanogen overgrowth)

  • IBS

  • Diabetes

  • Neurological issues

  • Hypothyroidism 

  • Motility disorders

  • Pelvic floor issues

  • Obstruction

  • More

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Testing

We ensure that our patients go through comprehensive testing to rule out any other causes of gastrointestinal symptoms.

 

Tests may include: ​

  • Lactulose breath test for small intestinal methanogen overgrowth

  • Blood work to look at inflammatory markers, thyroid levels and more

  • Imaging studies

  • Motility studies

  • More  

"As many others I have struggled with gut issues for decades. I am a 65 year old retired nurse. I’ve seen PCP, GI Docs, and have tried laxatives, every fiber ever made, etc. I decided I needed to find a naturopathic Dr. Modrn med’s team has been essential for me in my journey. The office support staff is professional, accessible, very responsive and caring. I can’t say enough about Dr. Scheeler. When I first met her she took a long time listening and doing an intake of me and my story. I felt heard; that is a big deal. She didn’t just write me script. She is very professional and with her expertise she was confident that I would be better. We brainstormed and am feeling much better and taking less medication/supplements now. This in turn makes me able to relax and enjoy more things. She diagnosed me with familial hypercholesterolemia, ordered me a heart scan and now my numbers are way down and I have cardiac health instead of cardiac disease. I could go on and on, but I decided I want to concentrate on my health and I am glad to have Dr. Scheeler’s support."

Constipation tips

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