Basics Of Constipation

Constipation can be defined as the painful passing of stool or the reduced frequency of excretion. The number of times that a person passes stool is not fixed but if it is lesser than what is normal, then it defined as constipation. When constipated, stool may be accompanied by pain and sometimes blood due to various causes such as hemorrhoids or something as serious as cancer.

Causes of Constipation

Constipation is a symptom and not a disease itself. When trying to treat it, efforts are made to identify the underlying cause. The most common cause of constipation is the lack of fiber or a low fiber intake. Dehydration and reduced water consumption is another common cause. Other causes of constipation include :

• Colon problems like Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• A side effect to certain medications
• Lack of physical activity
• Stifling bowel movements
• Consumption of food like meat, bread and milk
• Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s
• Cancer
• Metabolic disorders like diabetes

Identifying The Cause

The investigation to identify the underlying cause starts with recording your medical history and a physical examination. Your doctor will ask you about your eating habits. If treatment does not work, then other tests are conducted.

Investigative Techniques Used To The Determine Cause

An investigative test is suggested for those who have been constipated for more than four weeks, not necessarily at a stretch. Tests can be classified as two types. Tests which provide information about the structure of the colon and tests which provide functional information.

The most common test to identify any structural abnormalities is a colonoscopy. A colonoscope is a long flexible tube which is inserted into the rectum. The camera in the scope provides a video output of the large and small intestines. A small piece of any abnormal tissue can be extracted for pathological examination.

A barium study is also done to examine the colon. In order to investigate the functioning of the muscles, a defecography and balloon catheter tests are done. Any problems with the muscles that control the anal sphincter can be identified with these tests.

Preventing Constipation

Constipation is very often caused due to a diet and lifestyle change. You need to eat food that is rich in fiber. Adequate water intake is essential for easy bowel movements. Getting your required amount of sleep keeps the body’s metabolism going smoothly. Avoid alcohol and smoking as it causes several problems that cause constipation. Plenty of physical activity keeps the body free from diseases that cause constipation.

Getting Rid Of Constipation

Fiber rich food and increasing water consumption gets rid of constipation in most cases. However, laxatives may be prescribed in some cases to make the passage of stool easier. Treating the underlying cause is more important than just getting rid of constipation in acute cases.

Complications Of Constipation

Tender tissues in the rectum and the anus can tear, resulting in bleeding, infection and a prolapsed intestine which may require surgical correction.