Constipation is a Very Uncomfortable Bowel Problem
Constipation is a very uncomfortable bowel problem where the
bowel movements are sluggish and infrequent. The bowel movements
are characterized by hard, dry stool that is very hard to expel
from the body. Many people suffer from constipation and often
have headaches, a felling of general unwellness and even
distension of the stomach. In some cases, the feeling that one
is unwell stem from the fact that most people believe that in
order to be healthy they need to have at least one bowel
movement every day.
Constipation is not harmful. It just cases the person to feel
very uncomfortable and bloated. However, complications from the
complaint may arise if the waste from the bowels causes the
rectum to become irritated or in rare cases, rupture. The fact
that people have trouble expelling the stool from the body does
not release harmful toxins from the bowels into the body.
At some time or another, virtually everyone experiences
constipation. There are over the counter products available at
all pharmacies to help with the problem, but overuse of these
products can cause addiction. Using the laxatives too frequently
can cause the muscles in the wall of the bowels to be too
relaxed and it may become very difficult to have a normal bowel
movement.
Chronic constipation is usually caused by not going to the
bathroom when you need to and putting it off until later. It is
also caused by dietary habits. Roughage, such as green
vegetables and fruit, are essential to keep the bowels in good
working order. Irregular eating hours, some prescription drugs
and the improper use of laxatives are other causes that the
medical profession has listed. Drinking plenty of fluids, eating
fruit, vegetables and bran are useful methods of solving
constipation problems. A regular time for meals is also helpful.
A sudden onset of constipation when all previous bowel movements
have been normal could be the signal of a serious disease. You
should consult your doctor if this is the case or if you have
prolonged constipation.