There is an important relation between constipation, urinary retention, and chances of developing a hernia. It is important to manage constipation and urinary retention effectively to lower the risk of developing a hernia.
Understanding hernias and its relation to constipation and urinary retention
Hernia is a medical ailment in which an internal organ or other body tissue passes through a weak spot in the muscular wall or tissue area. Hernias typically occur in the abdomen and can cause serious pain or complications if not treated properly. Genetics, heavy lifting, obesity and disorders that increase intraabdominal pressure, such as constipation or urine retention, are all risk factors for hernia development.
Hernias and constipation or urinary retention are related as both constipation and urinary retention are conditions that elevate intra-abdominal pressure. Efforts or attempts during defecation exert too much pressure on the walls of the abdomen, which might lead to a hernia. In a chronic state, constipation will cause repeated efforts; an enlarged prostate in males and similar dysfunctions of the pelvic floor in females may have similar effects, with urinary retention.
1- Managing constipation
l Dietary Adjustments
1. High fibre: Eating a fibre-rich diet helps in maintaining bulky, soft stool consistency, which is easier to evacuate. Natural sources of fibre are fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
2. Stay hydrated: Adequate hydration is a simple way that constipation can easily be avoided. Water is required to keep the stool soft and for passage through the intestines.
3. Avoid foods high in fat and sugar: Some foods high in fat and sugar can worsen constipation. A reduction in these foods can aid regularity.
l Changes in lifestyle
1. Routine physical activity: Routine physical activity stimulates the intestines by causing them to contract better and push stools through the colon. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
2. Establish a routine: Try to have a bowel movement every day at approximately the same time. This may help your body develop a regular schedule for bowel movements.
3. Listen to urges promptly: Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can result in constipation. Listen to your body and act accordingly.
l Medical Interventions
1. Laxatives: Over-the-counter laxatives may help to some extent, but they should not be relied on for long-term management.
2. Prescribed medications: If the constipation is chronic, the healthcare provider prescribes medications to regulate bowel movements.
2- Strategies to facilitate bladder emptying
1. Timed voiding: Develope a schedule for patients to use the bathroom at regular intervals to prevent the bladder from becoming too full.
2. Double voiding: Once you are finished urinating, wait a few minutes, and then try to urinate again to completely empty your bladder.
3. Warm baths: You can sit in warm water in the bathtub to relax the muscles around your pelvis for easier urination.
3- Underlying causes for constipation and urinary retention
1. Prostate health: Some men experience relief through medications for an enlarged prostate to reduce its size, or to relax the muscles of the bladder neck.
2. Pelvic floor dysfunction: A woman with urinary retention from pelvic floor dysfunction can derive maximum benefit from physical therapy involving pelvic muscle exercises.
You should consult your nearest doctors if you have no improvement with treatment and still suffer the following symptoms-
1. Constipation
2. Bloating
3. Blood in the stool
4. Unintentional weight loss
Management of constipation and urinary retention is importantnot only for comfort and overall health but also for preventing hernia development. By diet modifications, lifestyle changes, and relevant medical interventions, the patient will largely reduce elevated intra-abdominal pressures that lead to a hernia. Of course, it is possible to get more personalised counselling and treatment programs after consulting your health provider.
(The author, Dr. Mriganka Sekhar Sharma, is a consultant, Department of General Minimal Access and Bariatric Surgery, at Manipal Hospital.)
