What Is Constipation

Constipation is defined as a condition when there is difficulty in passing stools. The stools usually are harder in a constipated individual and require more effort to expel them. In the process, the stools can hurt the lining of the colon, rectum and the anal sphincter. This may or may not be accompanied by bleeding.

Understanding The Nature Of The Causes

Constipation can have numerous causes. Often when it occurs in isolation, without other symptoms, it is caused by irregularities in diet and dehydration. When accompanied by fever, weight loss and other systemic symptoms, it may indicate an underlying condition. Then, it is regarded as only a symptom and not the problem itself, from the perspective of treatment.

Role of Dietary Fiber

Dietary fiber is essential to prevent and treat constipation. The churning action of the colon is not sufficient to pass stools smoothly. There is a need for a force agent such as fiber. It pushes the contents of the colon towards the anus. Fiber itself is not digested and is excreted along with stools. For fiber to be effective, adequate water has to be consumed. Fiber absorbs water and gives stools bulk. This makes it easier to excrete them. 8 to 10 glasses of water is adequate for a normal adult. This may however vary depending on the extent of dehydration.

Disorders of Which Constipation is a Symptom

Constipation is a symptom of any disease that can cause obstruction of the colon. It is also caused by disorders that affect the nerves that control muscular action of the colon and anus. Obstructions can be caused due to the formation of tumors both benign and malignant. Cancer could have spread from other parts of the body. Other disorders like Parkinson’s, lupus and diabetes are also known causes. Any injury to the abdomen and the rectum can also cause constipation. In these cases, constipation is chronic and does not respond to diet correction or mild medication.

How are Underlying Problems Diagnosed?

The first step is recording the medical history based on signs, symptoms, eating and bowel habits. Then a physical examination is done to locate piles or fistulae that are blocking the opening. Since the rectum is easily accessible, any structural problems can be located. If a confirmatory diagnosis cannot be made at this stage, colonoscopy, with stool transit studies and barium enema is done to determine the cause.

Constipation Medical Treatment

Treatment of constipation that has not responded to diet correction begins with stool softeners and dietary fibers. These medications, broadly called laxatives, are to be strictly taken only on prescription. Their long term use can lead to constipation when withdrawn, as the body cannot excrete stools without them.

To correct loss of nerve and muscle control, behavioral exercises are suggested. These exercises are designed to make the individual learn muscle control and recognize the urge to pass stools. Behavioral therapy is prescribed in addition to other mode of treatment.

Surgery is performed not to treat constipation but the underlying cause. Once the portion of the colon that is not functioning is identified, it is operated upon or some part of it is removed. Surgery may also be performed to correct deformities of the anal sphincter.

Preventing Constipation

The key to preventing constipation is having food with adequate fiber. Fruits and vegetables when taken raw have the required amount of roughage (insoluble fiber). Alcohol dehydrates the body and therefore, its consumption should be limited or restricted. Physical workout helps the body stay fit and healthy. Colon cleansing can be done on regular basis to prevent blockage. Colon cleansing products are easily available.

Constipation indicates that there is an underlying problem which most often is bad eating and lifestyle. That said, it should not be ignored as it can cause complications like colon prolapse.