Constipation

Of course, we all know what constipation is. Haven’t we all spent agonizing moments in our failed attempts to make motion? As per the strict definition of the term, you’re constipated, if you’ve a bowel movement fewer than three times a week.

Constipation occurs if the stools become hard, dry, small in size and difficult to eliminate. This may result in physical discomfiture like pain and straining while trying to make motion and the feeling of getting bloated and sensation of a full bowel, when you fail to eliminate the stools.

Understanding constipation

Constipation is not a disease, it’s a symptom. And you’ll experience it at some point in your life. However, not making bowel movement everyday doesn’t constitute constipation, as the frequency can vary. For some people, it’s normal to eliminate stool three times a day, for some three times a week is the norm! Mostly constipation is a temporary condition and not serious.

However, it may turn to chronic constipation and can be really troublesome. The cause remains poor diet and lifestyle. In the US, constipation causes 2.5 million people to visit physicians every year! Women and adults beyond the age of 65 are the most affected. (1)

Causes of constipation

Common causes of constipation are changes in life or routine such as pregnancy, aging, and travel; lack of physical activity, especially in the elderly; not enough fiber in the diet; milk; dehydration; medications; abuse of laxatives; ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement; specific diseases or conditions, such as stroke; irritable bowel syndrome; problems with the colon and rectum; and problems with intestinal function.