Constipation Remedies - What Causes Constipation And How To Treat It

What is Constipation?

Constipation is the word we use when there is real difficulty in passing stools, especially when the stools tend to be very hard. They can appear to be small, almost like rabbit droppings, or large.

Bloating of the stomach sometimes accompanies constipation which causes the sufferer further discomfort.

A condition that the majority of people experience occasionally can turn into a major issue for those who frequently or constantly encounter it. This can be both painful and embarrassing for the sufferer.

Affecting women more than men, constipation is also common in the elderly.

Causes

Lifestyle plays a major part in causing constipation. It really is essential to eat a healthy diet and to have regular exercise. Movement and activity aids in stimulating the bowels, as does eating a sufficient amount of fibre.

Lack of liquid intake.

Half a dozen coffees and an alcoholic drink is not as beneficial as a pint or two of ordinary water. In fact, both coffee and alcohol have a dehydrating affect on the body, which in itself can aggravate or cause constipation.

Medication can also be a cause of constipation. If you suspect this could be the reason for your constipation, then talk to your doctor or health advisor.

Stress and anxiety are other important factors. If you are experiencing constipation, make sure that it isn't being caused by a stressful lifestyle. Simply ignoring the need to go to the toilet is another factor that should not be overlooked.

Some serious medical conditions of the colon and rectum may also be the cause of constipation.

If you have ruled out the above, and if your bowel movements have seriously changed, then visit your doctor as soon as possible. There really is no need for embarrassment.

In addition to these possible causes of constipation, there are also a number of long term illnesses and conditions that could be triggering it.

Again, check with your doctor in order to eliminate underlying medical issues.

Self Help

Check out your lifestyle.

- Are you getting enough exercise? A brisk 20 minute walk a day can be most helpful

- Are you eating the right foods? The body has a need for fibre on a regular basis in order to maintain regularity. Today's highly processed foods simply compound, and in many cases, may even be the cause of constipation.

Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables so as to ensure that you are getting the right amount of fibre in your diet.

Magnesium has been shown to soften stools, thereby easing constipation. Foods high in magnesium are buckwheat flour, spinach, almonds and pumpkin seeds.

Folic acid deficiency is also a known cause of constipation. Foods high in folic acid are spinach, sprouts, broccoli, and green beans.

Why not try substituting roast root vegetables for regular potatoes, french fries etc. Whole grain rice or wheat provides both fibre and essential vitamins. A mix of roasted diced sweet potato, swede, squash, onion etc can work wonders and taste delicious

- Are you drinking enough water? It doesn't have to be cold. Lots of people enjoy a mug of boiled hot water, perhaps flavored with a herbal tea bag such as mint or chamomile. Make sure you drink at least 8 glasses of water a day

- Are you regularly visiting the toilet when you need to - or are you delaying this because its simply inconvenient?

Bear in mind that most people experience constipation on occasion and this is entirely normal. If you have been experiencing constipation for more than two weeks, however, then you would be well advised to consult your doctor or health advisor in order to eliminate any serious underlying causes.

Treatment

Fruit such as figs and prunes - or syrups and preparations containing these - can be extremely effective in treating constipation.

Short term treatment may include mild laxatives taken daily for a brief period of time. These are especially good for the elderly and those recovering from surgery. Generally in a liquid form, some of these merely give the stools a coating which allows them to be passed easier.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist as to which laxatives are most appropriate for you.

The above aids are readily available over the counter at your local pharmacists, however, if you are buying laxatives in this manner frequently, it indicates that you really do need to see a doctor and get your condition sorted out medically.

A doctor is able to prescribe various types of laxatives or other treatment which are specific to different forms of constipation.

For hard and impacted stools which have accumulated in the bowel, suppositiories or enemas may be called for. Again, these should be used with advice from a health professional.

A doctor may undertake various tests and an internal examination as some serious medical conditions, such as tumours, can be masked by constipation.

Babies and Children

This article refers to constipation in adults. For concerns over babies and young children with constipation please consult a health visitor or doctor as soon as you can.

IMPORTANT: This information is not a replacement for proper medical or nutritional advice. Be sure to consult your doctor or health care advisor if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of constipation for any length of time.