Constipation refers to the health condition wherein the person experiencing it has three or fewer bowel movement per week. It can also mean trouble passing stools or passing dry and hard stools. Constipation can be effectively treated, and it is simple to treat it. But the best way is to prevent it. If you understand the causes of constipation, you may be able to prevent it beforehand. Read on to know in detail about the various causes of constipation and some of the complications and side effects related to it.
Causes of constipation
Some of the most common causes of constipation are:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Those who are suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are more prone to get constipation as compared to others. Therefore, IBS is considered to be one of the main causes of constipation.
Lack of fiber in the daily diet
People who add a good quantity of fiber in their daily diet are less likely to get constipation. Including fiber in the daily diet is advisable for those who suffer from constipation. Food items such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are considered to be a good source of fiber. Therefore, these food items should be made a part of the daily diet as fiber promotes a healthy bowel movement, thereby keeping constipation at bay.
Medications
Some medications are known to cause constipation. In case you need medications for treating a condition, it is best to consult a doctor and go for prescribed medications to avoid constipation. Medications that may cause constipation include antidepressants, aluminum-containing antacids, and opioid medications to name a few.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, hormonal changes are common. Such changes may cause constipation as well. Moreover, the intestine gets compressed by the uterus, which ultimately narrows down the food passage leading to constipation.
Dehydration
Not drinking enough water regularly is a common cause of constipation. Also, most of the aerated drinks contain caffeine, which may trigger constipation or worsen an existing condition. People who are constipated should avoid consumption of alcohol as it dehydrates the body, making it susceptible to a worse case of constipation.
Colon or rectum problems
In some of the cases, tumors may restrict the food passage and this condition may lead to constipation. Moreover, colorectal stricture, scar tissue, or diverticulosis can also be a cause of constipation.
Dairy products
Milk and other dairy product may also cause constipation.
Foods high in sugar
Foods high in sugar and fat are also known to cause constipation.
Other medical conditions
There are a few diseases that slow down the bowel movement causing constipation. Some of these diseases are:
- Systemic disease– This disease affects multiple tissues and organs along with the colon and rectum, causing trouble in smooth bowel movement.
- Metabolic and endocrine conditions– Diabetes, poor glycemic control, and uremia are some of the diseases that may trigger constipation.
Here are a few other health conditions that may cause constipation:
- Stroke
- Spinal cord injury
- Underactive thyroid
- Parkinson’s disease
- Lupus
Side effects of constipation
Constipation causes a few side effects and these are:
- Rectal prolapse
- Anal fissures
- Fecal impaction
- Fatigue
- Hemorrhoids
- Fecal incontinence
- Encopresis
