Constipation
[toc]Constipation is also known as dyschezia or costiveness and it is characterized by infrequent bowel movements that are hard to release. During constipation, one usually has 3 stools in a week or less than that. It is a common condition that can affect any individual. Constipation has always been associated with great discomfort and severe constipation may lead to serious health disorders. Read ahead to know more about constipation!
Important Causes Of Constipation
There are various factors that can lead to constipation. Let us take a look at few of the reasons that can cause constipation.
Improper Diet
Fruits And Vegetables
The digestive system is largely affected by the diet or the food intake of an individual. It has been proved scientifically that in order to have soft and bulky stools it is very important to have a proper diet that consists of whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Lack of dietary fiber in the body is one of the major causes of constipation. Also, inadequate amount of water intake may lead to constipation.
Hormonal Disorders
Hormonal disorder in the body can also lead to constipation. Less amount of thyroid hormone or excess amount of parathyroid hormone can be a reason. During pregnancy, women suffer from constipation owing to a higher level of progesterone and estrogen.
Dysfunction Of The Pelvic Floor
This refers to a condition where the lower pelvis muscles surrounding the rectum stop functioning normally. In such a scenario, one is likely to experience difficulty in passing stools.
Various Symptoms Of Constipation
Apart from infrequent stools, there are also other symptoms of constipation. Let us see some of these symptoms.
Pain
Pain
Constipation results in difficulty to pass stools. So, one is likely to experience pain while passing stools. The pain occurs in the abdomen and also in the rectum. Sometimes rectal bleeding is also seen.
Swelling Of The Abdomen
During constipation, one can also experience swelling of the abdomen. This is caused by too much of digestive acid that may form in the stomach. It also causes a lot of abdominal pain.
Vomiting
When one feels difficulty in passing stools, then one is likely to throw out food through vomiting when the stomach is not able to hold any more.
Types Of Constipation
Constipation is mainly of 2 types. The details of theses 2 types are stated below
Occasional Constipation
Occasional constipation, as referred by its name, happens occasionally. It is a condition of short term that may occur for a temporary duration. In spite of being a short term condition, occasional constipation is discomforting and can affect one’s normal routine. Occasional constipation can be cured by changing your diet, exercising regularly and with the help of medications.
Chronic Constipation
The other type of constipation is chronic constipation that becomes a sort of a new routine by itself. People who suffer from chronic constipation have the common symptoms that include difficult to pass lumpy or hard stool, vomiting and so on. You will feel heavy even after a bowel movement. Chronic constipation goes on for a continuous basis and the symptoms usually remain for around 3 months or more.
