One of Nation’s Top Experts on Women’s Digestive Problems Examines How Taking Medicine, Stress or Overeating May be Making you Sick! Stomach pain is something everyone experiences at one time or another, whether it’s indigestion, heart burn or other more serious problems. We take you to Philadelphia — where the American College of Gastroenterology Conference is going on – to hear the latest information about digestive issues from one of the nation’s top experts on women’s digestive issues. Find out why there is plenty of good news for people suffering from GI problems. Your viewers will learn about recent medical breakthroughs, and why consistent abdominal pain may be a symptom of many conditions, or even the result of taking other medications. Dr. Cynthia Yoshida is the author of No More Digestive Problems, a book which focuses on offering real solutions for every woman to reduce pain and achieve optimum digestive health. Dr. Yoshida was the past chair of the Women’s Committee of the American Gastroenterological Association, and she conceived and initiated an all-women’s GI clinic while at the University of Virginia. Cynthia Yoshida, M.D. Cynthia Yoshida, M.D., is associate professor at the University of Virginia Health System in Charlottesville and the director of the university’s all-women’s GI clinic. In addition to her numerous research publications, she is a frequent speaker at national and international medical conferences, and a recognized media spokesperson on women’s digestive health. Dr. Yoshida leads a private practice of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine in Charlottesville,Virginia. Dr. Yoshida graduated from the University Of Kansas School Of Medicine and has been in the profession for 20 years. During her tenure, Dr. Yoshida was the chair of the Women’s Committee of the American Gastroenterological Association, and she conceived and initiated an all-women’s GI clinic. Dr. Yoshida had been awarded both the Dean’s Award for Clinical Excellence and the Dean’s Award for Teaching Excellence at University of Virginia. She is the author of No More Digestive Problems which focuses on offering real solutions for every woman to reduce pain and achieve optimum digestive health. Understanding Constipation: Who Is Affected by Constipation? Although some people may be uncomfortable talking about it, constipation is a very common gastrointestinal complaint, affecting 1 in 4 of us, that’s more than 65 million Americans! To put this into perspective, about twice as many people are affected by constipation as those who suffer from seasonal allergies. While constipation can affect anyone, more than twice as many women as men suffer from constipation. The condition also becomes more common as people age. What is Constipation? Constipation is a subject few like to talk about, although it affects us all at one time or another. Constipation can be serious but even when it’s not it can be uncomfortable, frustrating and even affect quality of life. Constipation occurs when a person’s bowel movements become difficult or when they happen less frequently than normal. Normal stools are soft and formed, and passed without straining. Normal frequency is, of course, different for everyone. Some people go once or twice a day, others three times a week all completely normal if that number of trips to the bathroom is the regular routine. Constipation occurs when your routine changes. We can experience a variety of symptoms beyond just difficulty going to the bathroom. Other symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, gas and bloating, but we might also feel symptoms that may not seem to have anything to do with our digestive system, such as fatigue, achiness and irritability. Being constipated can really ruin your day!* What Causes Constipation? Our digestive systems are sensitive to changes in diet and lifestyle, so we should not be surprised or alarmed if, once in a while, our system slows down. Anyone can get constipated, and it does not necessarily mean that they are unhealthy or that they have an unhealthy lifestyle. There are many possible causes and certain times in our lives when we are more likely to become constipated. Constipation can happen to all of us. The reasons why we become constipated are often simple and commonplace and in today’s world, some of these causes of constipation can be hard to avoid. Constipation can be caused by simple changes in lifestyle, such as diet and not drinking enough fluids. Other common causes are not enough physical activity or too much stress or anxiety. Some medical conditions, like pregnancy or diabetes, can cause constipation. Constipation can also be caused by certain medicines and nutritional supplements. Travel can also upset your natural rhythm. Stress and a busy lifestyle can take its toll. During a hectic day, it is not unusual to either resist the urge to go or to miss the opportunity to use the bathroom entirely. Unfortunately, postponing a bowel movement until later may actually cause regularity problems. A surprising number of prescription drugs may cause constipation as a side effect. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you better understand if your medicines can affect you this way. Medications That Can Cause Constipation A number of common medicines, including over-the-counter remedies and prescription medications, can cause constipation. Be sure to ask your doctor if your prescription medication might cause constipation. Narcotic analgesics, Antacids, Anticholinergics-(medicines that can dry you out) Iron supplements, Calcium supplements, Antidepressants, Antihypertensive drugs- (medicine for high blood pressure) *2007 Schering Plough Laxative Market Structure Study https://videos.whiteblox.com/gnb/secure/player.aspx?sid=34999