Understanding Constipation: Awareness Month Highlights Causes and Solutions
Constipation Awareness Month: Keep Things Moving
As December kicks off Constipation Awareness Month, the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) is taking the opportunity to shine a light on this common yet often stigmatized issue that affects millions worldwide. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and access to treatment can empower individuals to address their digestive health openly and comfortably.
What is Constipation?
Constipation is frequently characterized as having fewer bowel movements than what's considered normal, experiencing hard stools, straining during bowel movements, or feeling like one hasn’t completely emptied their bowels. In fact, studies indicate that approximately 1 in every 6-7 people around the world faces this issue, which can lead to over 1.5 million healthcare provider visits annually in the United States alone. Importantly, constipation is not solely defined by bowel frequency; it can manifest as abdominal discomfort, bloating, visible swelling, and even nausea.
Recognizing the Signs
Awareness of the symptoms is key. Common signs to look for include:
- - Infrequent bowel movements
- - Hard or difficult-to-pass stools
- - Straining or pain during bowel movements
- - The sensation of incomplete evacuation
These symptoms can disrupt daily routines, from work to personal activities, creating discomfort beyond the bathroom.
Communicating the Issue
Despite its prevalence, many individuals feel a degree of embarrassment about discussing digestive health. Ceciel Rooker, the President of IFFGD, states, "Many people are scared to talk about digestive health. Our goal is to create a safe space where individuals can seek help and find relief." This statement underscores the need for open dialogue and public understanding surrounding gastrointestinal disorders, especially during dedicated awareness times.
Taking Action During Awareness Month
To encourage discussion and education, IFFGD is promoting the importance of understanding gastrointestinal health, hosting various initiatives throughout December. By fostering a supportive environment, the foundation aims to reduce the stigma often associated with constipation and other gastrointestinal disorders. They urge individuals and families to advocate for their own health by seeking information and help when necessary.
This year, IFFGD invites the public to participate in their social media campaign utilizing hashtags like #KeepThingsMoving and #ConstipationAwarenessMonth25. They also provide a media toolkit that individuals can download to share information and promote dialogue about digestive health.
Conclusion
In summary, Constipation Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder to spotlight this commonly overlooked health issue. By educating ourselves and others, we can better manage our digestive health. For more information about constipation and resources available, visit aboutconstipation.org. For any media inquiries or to arrange interviews, the IFFGD can be contacted at [email protected] or (414) 964-1799.
About IFFGD
The International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) is a nonprofit organization established in 1991. Its mission centers on improving the lives of those affected by gastrointestinal disorders through education, advocacy, and research. To learn more about their work, visit www.iffgd.org.
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