Most of us probably have experienced constipation even once in our life. It happens when we feel bloated, sluggish, and uncomfortable; and no matter how much we want to get everything out in our system, it just can’t. Constipation can be described as having a bowel movement less than thrice a week. The stools are often small in amounts, dry, and hard, making it difficult and painful to eliminate. Constipation is a symptom of various conditions. It is not an actual disease. It can also be caused by the things we do. To explain these more, below are only some of the reasons why we get constipated.
- Exercise is a way to promote bowel movement. Lack of exercise or physical activities can cause constipation. This is mostly proven with elders who are not able to engage in such activities anymore. Also, those who are ill or those who got into an accident and needs to rest and stay in bed usually suffer from constipation.
- Fiber is found in vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. It greatly helps in making the texture of the stool softer for easier elimination. Low intake in fiber and high intake of fats are more likely to cause constipation.
- There are medications that can also lead to constipation. Examples of these are antacids with calcium and aluminum, antidepressants, narcotics, diuretics, calcium channel blockers, iron supplements, and many more.
- Drinking not enough water can also cause constipation. Studies show that people who suffers from constipation gets relief from drinking hydrating liquids. When liquids reach the colon, stools absorbed the liquid, thus making it softer and easier to eliminate. Although, not all liquids promote bowel movement. Liquids that contain caffeine like coffee, tea, and soda can even worsen constipation since it makes the body dehydrated.
- Bowel movement can be controlled voluntarily. When you feel the need of going to the bathroom, you can suppress it. It could be because of the fact that you are not comfortable using the toilet besides the one you have at home. It could be due to your busy schedule. Emotional stress could also make you feel not doing the deed. There are a number of reasons why we are guilty of holding back our bowel movement. But if you often ignore the urge of having bowel movement, sooner or later you will stop feeling the desire to have one. This will then lead to constipation.
- There are also diseases that can cause constipation. These diseases are usually associated with metabolic and endocrine sickness, neurological diseases, and systemic disorders affecting the organs.