Who Gets Constipated

Constipation is a common affliction for many people. Many individuals ignore it and do not seek medical help as it is seldom serious. What many people are not aware of is that constipation, while being harmless is actually a symptom of an underlying condition that can sometimes be life threatening.

Those Who Ingest Less Than Adequate Fiber

Fiber is essential for the smooth passage of stool. It has several functions. Those who are constipated, consume less than 20 gm of insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber is not digested but it helps the digested content move along the intestine. It helps in the formation of bulky stool and passing it becomes easier. Correction of diet with an increase in fiber content most often helps beat constipation.

Those Who Lead an Unhealthy Lifestyle

For the body to function at its best, a healthy diet, adequate sleep and a stress free mind are essential. Any disturbance in the body’s metabolic functioning can be pinned to these three factors. Junk food is difficult to digest. Undigested food can be painful when excreted. Sleep is essential. Lack of it can cause drastic changes like an increase in appetite, a constant state of stress which can result in hormonal imbalances and cause constipation. Physical exercise improves blood circulation which prevents the accumulation of fat which can line the intestines and cause blockage. Alcohol can cause severe dehydration and hard stool. Constipation is very common is alcoholics.

Those Who Ignore Bowel Urgency

Constipation that is caused due to muscle related problems in otherwise healthy adults can be traced to stifling the urgency to pass stool. While it is necessary to control the urge due to unavoidable circumstances, it becomes a habit in many individuals. As a result the muscles of the anus and rectum lose their tone and function. Eventually, the nerve endings in this region are also damaged and the sensation of the urge is lost.

Colon Cancer Patients

Cancer anywhere along the large intestine can hamper the digestion process and block free movement. Tumors behave in an unusual and unpredictable manner. The mutating cells can prevent the colon from absorbing enough water to make the stool smooth. Fiber may not be used effectively to form bulky stool. Individuals undergoing cancer treatment can also be constipated. It is a side effect of chemotherapy.

Pregnant Women

Constipation is common during pregnancy due to changes in levels of estrogen and progesterone. The expansion of the pelvic region makes the colon narrow and causes difficulty passing stool. However, diet correction most often alleviates these symptoms. When constipation does not respond to diet correction, mild laxatives or stool softeners may be prescribed.

Those With Neurological Problems

Neurological disorders like MS or Parkinson’s results in the loss of nerve and muscle control. This can cause spasms of the colon and food is not digested properly. Since colon and rectum control is lost, stool cannot be expelled. Damage to the spinal cord can also have the same effect. Injury to the colon can make it malfunction.

Individuals with metabolic disorders like diabetes and thyroid disorders are also prone to constipation.