The Many Causes of Constipation

Constipation has been a problem for people for centuries, and for some they cannot seem to figure out why they are constipated. Constipation has been linked to many different things, whether pain pills are the cause or even a lack of fiber. Is there only one definitive source of constipation? Or, is it simply linked to not enough fiber in the diet?

What is Constipation?

Constipation is a troublesome condition, in which a person is unable to have a regular bowel movement. Many times, a person can be constipated and have bowel movements, but they are difficult to pass and cause hemorrhoids and bleeding. This can happen as a result of stretching the bowel too much, which strains the lining, and can cause fissures or problems with the inner tissue just inside the anus. This happens as a result of the stool having remained in the bowel for too long, becoming hard and dry, and many times its too large to pass in a comfortable fashion.

The other challenge with constipation is that the person may not even have an urgency to have a bowel movement. This is a result of no stirring in the intestines, or no lack of bowel stimulation. When there is no urgency for a bowel movement, it can often be linked to a lack of fiber in the diet as well as other unknown causes like an obstruction, or possibly a problem that is not bowel related but close by.

The Most Common Causes of Constipation

The most common causes of constipation today are lack of fiber in the diet, as well as pain medicines. A low fiber diet is so common among Americans today that it's disturbing. According to the National Digestive Diseases Clearinghouse, over $725 million dollars are being spent annually on laxatives. That is an astounding number, and the sad part is the body becomes dependent on these when they are introduced to the body on a regular basis.

Every one of us has experienced constipation at one time or another, but for every person it may happen as the result of something different. We have to keep in mind that no two people are alike, and unfortunately there are many people I know that get doctors that tell them that for everyone the body works the same. This just isn't true.

The key is always talking with your doctor, or a doctor you trust. If you don't trust your current doctor then find another one. Tell them everything and don't hold back information, as this could give them valuable insight into what is happening with your body. Many women have constipation as a result of uterine fibroids because they press on the bowel, and can have side effects from contraceptives as well.

Evaluate your diet, and make sure that you are taking in enough fibrous vegetables and fruits. If you aren't sure what they are, you can find lots of information on the internet, or again ask your doctor or someone you trust.

Constipation isn't pleasant, and if you are suffering from it get help. Constipation isn't good for you because it doesn't allow toxins to exit the body. Your digestive organs were created to work congruently with each other to process your food, digest it and help you pass it. When your body doesn't follow the normal process of elimination, the results can be additional illness and infection.

The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
Reviewed By Michael Camilleri
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/constipation/