What Causes Constipation?

Constipation is a condition in which a person is unable to have regular bowel movements. It can be uncomfortable and cause abdominal pain and bloating. According to a study from the National Institute of Health, it is estimated that more than four million Americans experience constipation at some point during their lives. Constipation is a very common problem, but figuring out why it can happen can be tricky. Here, we will discuss the causes of constipation and why it can become a chronic problem.

Dietary Factors

One of the most common causes of constipation is a lack of dietary fiber. It can be difficult to get enough fiber in their diet, especially for those who do not eat a lot of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fiber helps food move through the digestive tract more quickly, and it also helps to add bulk to the stool so that it is easier to pass. A lack of fluid can also contribute to constipation because fluids help to make stool softer and easier to pass. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you get enough fiber and fluid in your diet if you are prone to constipation.

Medication Side Effects

Certain medications can cause constipation as a side effect. These include some pain medications, antidepressants, diuretics, and antacids that contain aluminum or calcium. If you are taking any of these medications, make sure to discuss possible side effects with your doctor or pharmacist.

Medical Conditions

There are certain medical conditions that can cause constipation as well. These include irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and hypothyroidism. Additionally, having a blockage in the colon or rectum can also cause constipation, often in severe cases. Make sure to discuss any underlying health conditions with your doctor in order to determine if these are the cause of your problem.

Chronic Constipation

When constipation becomes a chronic problem, it can lead to a number of different issues. It can lead to painful bouts of diarrhea and abdominal cramping. People may also experience feelings of bloatedness and pain in the abdominal area. Additionally, chronic constipation can lead to fecal impaction, which is when stool accumulates in the intestines and rectum, preventing new stool from passing out of the body. This can be extremely painful and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Possible Treatments

If you are experiencing constipation, there are a number of different treatments that can help. These include drinking more fluids, increasing the amount of dietary fiber, and taking a stool softener or laxative to help make it easier to pass stools. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as exercising more, meditating, and reducing stress can also help to alleviate symptoms of constipation.

Conclusion

Constipation is a very common problem, but figuring out what causes it can be tricky. Some of the most common causes of constipation include a lack of dietary fiber, fluid, and certain medications or medical conditions. If you are experiencing constipation on a regular basis, make sure to talk to your doctor in order to determine the cause and get the proper treatment.