Constipation
Constipation is a common condition affecting individuals of all ages, characterized primarily by discomfort and difficulty in passing stools. It can arise from various causes, including certain medical conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, and colon cancer, as well as lifestyle factors such as inadequate fluid intake, low-fiber diets, and lack of physical activity. Symptoms often include hard, pellet-like stools and a sense of incomplete evacuation.
For many, constipation can be managed at home through simple remedies. Increasing fluid intake—aiming for eight to ten glasses daily—can help ease the passage of stool, while a gradual introduction of high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can improve bowel regularity. Physical activity also plays a crucial role in stimulating digestive processes.
While many cases can be resolved with these lifestyle changes, persistent constipation should prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider to explore underlying issues and treatment options. Caution is advised regarding the use of laxatives or enemas, which should be discussed with a physician, given the potential for side effects and complications.
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Subject Terms
Constipation
Anatomy or system affected: Abdomen, gastrointestinal system, intestines
Definition: The abnormally slow passage of feces through the bowels or the presence of hard feces
Causes and Symptoms
People of every age group, from infants to older adults, can experience the unpleasant symptoms of constipation, which is characterized primarily by discomfort. Certain disease states, such as diabetes mellitus, paralysis of the legs, colon cancer, and hypothyroidism, predispose a person to constipation. Possible causes of constipation are medications, iron supplements, toilet-training procedures, pregnancy, lack of adequate fluids, a low-fiber diet, and lack of physical activity.
Treatment and Therapy
Most cases of constipation can be treated by the patient at home. Drinking adequate fluids makes it easier for fecal material to pass through the large intestine. Without adequate hydration, a person may experience small, pelletlike stools. Eight to ten glasses of liquids per day are recommended, including water, milk, fruit juice, herbal tea, and soup. Once adequate hydration is achieved, a high-fiber diet can gradually be started. Without enough fluids, a high-fiber diet can worsen the problems of constipation. A high-fiber diet adds bulk to the bowel movement (increasing stool volume, decreasing pressure within the colon, and decreasing the intestinal transit time of foods) and thus can lead to more regular bowel habits and partial relief of the symptoms. One can increase fiber in the diet by eating high-fiber breakfast cereals, beans or legumes, raw fruits and vegetables, prunes, and whole-grain breads. To minimize gastrointestinal discomforts such as increased flatulence (gas), it is recommended to increase one’s fiber consumption gradually.
In addition to adequate liquids and a high-fiber diet, exercise is important in treating constipation. Any sort of physical activity, such as walking, running, or swimming, can help to stimulate the activity of the large intestine.
Laxatives and enemas should not be used until after a discussion with a physician. Mineral oil should also not be used because many essential fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, may be excreted as well. Persistent constipation should be evaluated by a physician.
Bibliography
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"Chart of High-Fiber Foods." Mayo Clinic, 5 Jan. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/high-fiber-foods/art-20050948. Accessed 20 July 2023.
"Constipation." National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/constipation. Accessed 20 July 2023.
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