Constipation Cause and Treatment

Constipation, or irregularity, is a condition that most people will experience in their lives and is most commonly related to the difficulty to pass stools. It is a problematic condition of the digestive system that normally occurs if the colon (large intestine) is absorbing too much water from food. Their stools become very hard and dry, and passing these stools can become very painful. For most people, constipation is a very uncomfortable and potentially painful disorder. It is a common disorder for which there are many treatments.

Constipation is commonly regarded as being related to the regularity of bowel movements. One bowel movement per day is most common for adults and between three and twenty-one per week is considered typical. If bowel movements only occur two times or less during a single week then it is reasonable to conclude that you have constipation. This can result in discomfort and can lead to acute pain in some people.  The stools become hard and difficult to pass. The strain that trying to pass constipated stools can also lead to haemorrhoids.

Chronic constipation is defined as constipation that occurs frequently over a long period of time. The medical profession normally links chronic constipation to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If this level of constipation occurs it can also become hard to pass gas. Acute constipation is the next level of severity and is considered to be more critical because it can potentially caused from a more serious illness such as a cancerous colon tumor.

Causes of Constipation

Constipation can occur for a number of reasons. A less than ideal diet, such as low intake of fibre and fluids, is a common cause for constipation. It can also be caused as a side effect of medications such as antidepressants which often cause food to pass more slowly through the intestines allowing more fluid to be extracted. Additionally, if colon movement is suppressed, and faeces are not travelling effectively through the bowel, constipation can occur. This symptom can be caused by certain medication, lead poisoning, lactose intolerance, and a number of other illnesses. Constipation is also caused by a number of pain relief medications. Other known causes include bowel tumors, anxiety, childbirth or severe dehydration.Smokers often get constipation whilst attempting to quit.

Treatment of Constipation

Treatment of constipation depends on the severity of symptoms. As a first step,adopting a high fibre diet, especially one high in fruit and vegetables is recommemded, as well as increasing fluid intake. For more severe cases, probiotics and laxatives can be used to soften stools and allow for easier less painful bowel movements.   laxatives can be damaging to the colon and are normally recommended as a temporary treatment. A simple colon cleanse might also help relieve constipation. There are a number of colon cleanse products available on the market that work as a detoxifier and fibre supplement as well as cleaning out the digestive system of any residual waste. These products are effective because they relive symptoms and make it easier to pass stools, as well as managing and preventing future problems.

Summary

Constipation is a common ailment that most people will experience in their lives. It can be caused by excess fluid absorption in the bowel.  Treatments depend on the severity of the symptoms and can include simply adopting a diet higher in fibre to colon cleanse, probiotics and laxatives.

More information on Constipation

National Digestive Diseass Clearing House on Constipation

Constipation Remedies at New York Times

Constipation Cause at Medical News Today

Dr Greene Guide if you have a constipation baby