CONSTIPATION

CONSTIPATION

   Constipation is defined as difficult or infrequent defecation.  Because bowel patterns differ greatly among individuals, constipation must be individually defined.  It usually means a decrease in the number of bowel movements per week, hard stools, and difficult evacuation.  Normal bowel habits range from 2 - 3 evacuations per day to one per week.

   Constipation is a common complaint caused by personal habits and a variety of disorders and drugs.
 

1.  Many functional or mechanical conditions can cause constipation.
     A.  muscle weakness:  abdominal muscles are used to create the intra-abdominal pressure
           required to evacuate the rectum.  Muscle weakness interferes with that pressure
     B.  pain caused by abdominal surgery:  pain also interferes with intra-abdominal pressure
     C.  lesions of the anus make defecation painful
          1.  inflamed hemorrhoids
          2.  fissures
          3.  fistulas
     D.  a low-residue diet (the habitual consumption of highly refined foods)
     E.  a sedentary life style and lack of regular exercise
     F.  a lack of access toilet facilities and a consistent suppression of the urge to empty the bowel
     G.  depression
     H.  drugs

           1. anticholinergics (used to treat depression)

           2. antacids containing calcium carbonate or aluminum hydroxide

           3. opiates, particularly codeine

 
2.  There are other culprits that can also cause constipation, such as hormones that are
     released due to stress.

3.  Ways to battle constipation
     A.  low-fiber diet
     B.  drink plenty of fluids (6 - 8 glasses of water daily)
     C.  caffeine (in hot tea or coffee)
     D.  exercise
     E.  identify the stressor in your life and work to eliminate it.  If the stressor is long-term,
          enlist the help of your support system.

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