Chronic Constipation

Constipation can be of two types. One is acute and a severe onset; the other is chronic, that lasts for a long duration gradually getting worse. Constipation is often not considered serious; but since its causes can be potentially life threatening, it should not be left uninvestigated.

Defining Chronic Constipation

Constipation that has not responded to common treatment modalities and has lasted for a longer than normal duration, is defined as chronic. Chronic constipation also causes complications like frequent hemorrhoids, inflammation of the anal tissue called fissure and bleeding from the colon. These symptoms along with constipation become reason to suspect a serious underlying condition.

Chronic Constipation Causes

1. Chronic constipation can result when constipation is initially ignored. This over a period of time becomes worse and does not respond to treatment. Constipation that starts mild and painless is often ignored. .

2. Not consuming enough fiber – Individuals who do not take adequate fiber might suffer from chronic constipation and may not even know. This can become painful sometimes and needs attention. Fiber is an essential dietary component that makes passing stools easy. It prevents the colon from absorbing too much water from the stools. Fiber in the presence of water becomes soft. Hence fiber rich diet form bulky stools and are easily excreted.

3. Abuse of laxatives – Laxatives when used for a long period of time without prescription, makes the body dependent on them. When the patient wants to stop using them, the body is unable to pass stools as it is used to laxatives. Laxative abuse is common among adults.

4. Colon diseases – Colon diseases like cancer can cause chronic constipation. Tumors grow over a period of time and cause obstruction in a progressive manner. This is one reason why constipation should not be ignored.

Diagnosis

Chronic constipation is a symptom of colon problem. Constipation that has not responded to medical treatment is investigated through colon transit studies and colonoscopy. Colon transit studies show how much of the bowel contents are being cleared. This helps identify functional problems. Colonoscopy identifies the presence of any structural abnormalities. Barium enema and x-ray are also useful tools for identifying causes of constipation.

Chronic Constipation Treatment

Unlike acute constipation, chronic constipation does not yield to home remedies and mild laxatives. It requires prolonged medication and a strictly regulated diet. In addition to this, behavioral therapy is also prescribed, particularly for those who have lost neuromuscular control due to neurological disorders and trauma. If constipation does not respond to this treatment, surgery is performed to correct the colon. Surgery however, is not performed to treat constipation but a more serious, possibly life threatening cause.

Preventing Chronic Constipation

Constipation caused due to unhealthy diet and lifestyle can easily be corrected with home remedies. Fiber rich foods like whole gram, raw vegetable and fruits and oat meal should be consumed. Physical exercise reduces chances of chronic illness like diabetes, reduces the risk of cancers and helps the body maintain healthy metabolism and digestion. You can also try using a colon cleanse once in a while as it is said to be very beneficial.