Constipation:
Constipation means different things to different people. You may have constipation if you have three or fewer bowel movements in a week or if stool is hard , dry , painful , or difficult to pass. Some people with constipation lack energy and feel full or bloated.
Some people think they have constipation if they don’t have a bowel movement every day. However , bowel habits are different for everyone. The foods you eat , how much you exercise , and other factors can affect your bowel habits.
At one time or another , almost everyone gets constipated. In most cases , it lasts for only a short time and is not serious. When you understand what causes constipation , you can take steps to prevent it.
To understand what causes constipation , it helps to know how the large intestine works. The large intestine removes most of the water from stool and changes it to a solid waste. The large intestine then moves the stool through the rectum and anus as a bowel movement.
Constipation occurs when stool passes through the large intestine too slowly. When stool stays in the large intestine too long , the intestine removes too much water , and the stool becomes hard and dry.
Some lifestyle habits that may cause constipation include
- changing your normal diet , exercise , or travel habits
- ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
- feeling a lot of stress
- eating a low-fiber diet
- not drinking enough liquids
- taking calcium or iron supplements
- taking medicines such as painkillers with codeine
Points to Remember
- Constipation may be present if you have three or fewer bowel movements in a week or if the stool is hard , dry , painful , or difficult to pass.
- Constipation affects almost everyone at one time or another.
- In most cases , following these simple steps will help prevent constipation:
- Eat a variety of foods , especially vegetables , fruits , and grains.
- Drink plenty of liquids.
- Exercise regularly.
- Fiber pills and powders may help relieve constipation.
- Most people with mild constipation do not need laxatives.
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