Hard stool
**Hard Stool (Constipation)**
**Description:**
“Hard stool” refers to bowel movements that are difficult or painful to pass due to their hardened and dry consistency. Constipation, a common condition leading to hard stool, is characterized by infrequent and arduous bowel movements, usually defined as having less than three defecations per week.
**Symptoms:**
* Straining during bowel movements
* Lumpy or hard stools
* Infrequent defecation (less than 3 times per week)
* Rectal pain
* Abdominal discomfort
* Bloating
**Causes:**
Constipation, resulting in hard stools, may arise from various reasons, including:
* Dietary factors (low fiber intake, inadequate fluid consumption)
* Medications (opioids, antidepressants)
* Medical conditions (irritable bowel syndrome, hypothyroidism)
* Lifestyle habits (lack of exercise, stress)
**Treatment:**
Addressing hard stools involves addressing underlying causes and implementing lifestyle modifications. Treatment may include:
* Increasing fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
* Adequate hydration
* Regular exercise
* Dietary supplements (e.g., fiber supplements)
* Over-the-counter or prescription laxatives
**Additional Information:**
Hard stools can lead to complications such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and fecal impaction. To maintain regular bowel movements and avoid hard stools, it is recommended to follow a healthy lifestyle that emphasizes fiber intake, fluid consumption, and regular exercise. In cases of persistent or severe constipation, medical evaluation is advisable to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Fecal Impaction vs. Constipation: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
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