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Constipation can be a sign of several different more serious disorders, but in most cases it is simply caused by a low-fiber diet or dehydration. The unfortunate combination of not drinking enough water and lacking fiber would make the stool hard and a lot more difficult to pass through the bowel.
In common constipation, the stool is hard and difficult to pass. When patients strain to pass the stool, they may cause hemorrhoids and anal fissures to appear, which additionally complicate the condition. Besides this, there could be no symptoms whatsoever. Also, in the later stages of the condition, some abdominal symptoms may appear because of abdominal distention. Most patients with chronic constipation report tenderness and cramps in the abdomen, and sometimes loud bowel sounds. Sometimes constipation can turn into one painful, disturbing, and somewhat embarrassing experience.
The most severe case of constipation is a condition called fecal impaction. This complication is accompanied by common symptoms of bowel obstruction such as:
- Vomiting
- Very tender abdomen
- Cramps
- Diffuse abdominal pain
If you suffer from constipation and notice any of these symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Possible causes of constipation
Common causes of constipation include:
- Inadequate water intake
- Inadequate fiber in the diet
- Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement, making stool harden further
- Overuse of laxatives
- Hypothyroidism
- A disruption of regular diet or routine, as seen in people who frequently travel
- Inadequate activity or exercise or immobility
- Eating large amounts of dairy products
- Stress
- Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis
- Antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum
- Medicines
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Pregnancy
- Colon cancer
Constipation: What is the best treatment?
Treatment for constipation also varies from patient to patient, because some of them have a life-long tendency toward constipation while others tend to have only occasional constipation. While mild and intermittent constipation is usually not a cause for concern, long-term constipation is considered to be a serious health issue no matter how long it lasts.
Constipation is also considered serious if accompanied by rectal bleeding, abdominal pain and cramps, nausea and vomiting, or involuntary weight loss. Treatment options for constipation could be divided into two different groups – drug treatment (laxatives) and drug-free treatment.