Constipation
Constipation is an uncomfortable condition of the digestive system that almost everyone suffers from at some time in their lives.
What is Constipation?
Constipation is an uncomfortable condition that occurs when a person’s digestive system does not function as it should. Constipation occurs in the colon where the normal muscle action fails to work properly, either stopping temporarily or working very slowly. Constipation occurs when an individual has infrequent or difficult bowel movements, or having fewer than three bowel movements per week.
What causes Constipation?
There are number of causes for this problem which may also be related to age and gender, as well as various physical and psychological factors or illness including: advancing age and inactivity, Hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, stress or worry, or some medications such as painkillers, antacids, antidepressants, and blood pressure medicine.
What are the signs and symptoms of Constipation?
Sign and symptoms of constipation include:
- A person is considered to suffer from constipation when they:
- Have fewer than three bowel movements a week
- Have to strain severely in order to defecate
- Produce hard stools
- Produce less than 30g (1 ounce) of stool with each bowel movement
Please visit your healthcare practitioner if you have concerns about your digestive health.
Diagnosing Constipation
It is important to remember that it is not necessary to move your bowels once every day. Different people experience constipation in different ways.
There are several different types of constipation including:
Acute Constipation:
- Temporary, occurs suddenly, usually a reaction to a particular cause or an isolated incident
- Can happen as a result of a change in lifestyle
- May occur when taking a new medication
Chronic Constipation:
- Occurs when the colon cannot fully perform its task of digesting and eliminating non-usable manner, persisting for a longer period of time
Pseudo obstruction:
- Common misconception that if you do not pass a stool everyday, you = are constipated.
- The body is simply going through its natural rhythm which may include days of no bowel movements
If you are experiencing stomach pains, or if you see traces of blood on your stools, you should consult your healthcare professional immediately.
Treatment and Prevention of Constipation
Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a well-balanced diet, exercise, stress-reduction, and drinking water is a great first step in helping to prevent constipation. If a healthy diet and exercise are not enough to help you maintain regularity, taking laxatives may provide relief of occasional constipation.
If constipation persists or occurs frequently, you should consult your doctor to consider the possible cause of the constipation.
References available upon request.
Consult your healthcare professional
