How To Deal With Constipation

If you are having a bowel movement fewer than three times per week, you are considered constipated. When you're constipation, your stools are hard, dry, small and difficult to eliminate. It can be very uncomfortable, with bloating and straining each time you have to use the bathroom. Some people think that they are constipated if they aren't having a bowel movement each day, but this is not the case. Depending on the person, someone may have a bowel movement three times per day, or three times per week. While constipation can continue for a long period of time, it is not considered a disease, but a symptom. Almost everyone will experience constipation at some point, and it's usually nothing serious.

Causes of Constipation

As the food you eat moves through your colon, the colon absorbs water from the food to form waste products. Then, muscle contractions in the colon push the stool towards the rectum, and by the time it gets there, most of the water has been absorbed. When the colon absorbs too much water, or the muscle contractions are too slow, stools will become dry and hard. Some of the most common causes of constipation are: * not enough dietary fiber * lack of physical activity * medications * dairy products *stroke or other disease * irritable bowel syndrome * problems with intestinal function * pregnancy * abuse of laxatives * ignoring the urge to use the bathroom * dehydration * problems with the rectum or colon

Treatment for Constipation

The treatment that's right for constipation depends on the severity and duration of the constipation. Usually, simple changes in diet and lifestyle will prevent constipation in the future. Diet - increasing fiber with foods like beans, bran, fresh fruits and vegetables like cabbage, asparagus and broccoli can help. You should also limit foods that increase constipation like cheese, ice cream, meat and processed food. Increasing the amount of water you drink, as well as fruit and vegetable juices, can greatly reduce constipation. Laxatives - if you're mildly constipation, you probably don't need laxatives, but if it continues, your doctor may recommend them for a short period of time. You also need to remember to use the toilet when you feel the urge, rather than holding it, as this can increase constipation. Always see a physician before taking laxatives, as they can interfere with some medications. There are many different types of laxatives, including fibre supplements, muscle-contracting agents and even lubricants to help stools pass more easily.