What Is Constipation?

Constipation is a condition experienced by the lot, but very little people have knowledge on what constipation really is. Constipation is when your bowel movements are less frequent and more difficult than normal. Normal bowel habit can vary with each individual and this can be anything from 3 stools per day to 3 per week. A stool should be solid but moist and easy to pass. Constipation is a common problem, which most of us will experience at some point in our lives. However, constipation is more common in the elderly and during pregnancy. Constipation can be caused by certain types of medicine such as, certain antidepressants, iron supplements, painkillers, cough medicines (containing codeine) or antacids (containing aluminium or calcium for indigestion). Constipation is more likely to occur if you have a diet low in fibre, yet high in fats, found in foods such as cheese, eggs and meat. Good sources of fibre include fresh fruit and vegetables, brown bread, brown rice and potatoes with their jackets. Constipation can also occur if you don't empty your bowels when you need to, have a change in diet or when you travel abroad. On rare occasions constipation may also be a side effect of an underlying illness. Illnesses that can cause long term constipation include irritable bowel syndrome, strokes, diverticular disease and colon cancer. Constipation can be uncomfortable but it is rarely anything to worry about. The main symptom of constipation is the lack of bowel movements from what you are used to. Then when you do go finally manage to go to the toilet you find you are straining and feel like your bowel has not been completely emptied. The stools when they do come, are usually hard and dry and are often described as 'rabbit droppings'. Other symptoms you may experience with constipation may include a bloated stomach and flatulence. Women may find sexual intercourse is painful if the bowel is very full. If constipation carries on it can lead to problems such as haemorrhoids.