Constipation refers to difficult or irregular bowel movements. It can affect all age groups, but old people and children are found to be more vulnerable to constipation. Some of the factors that can lead to constipation are dehydration, insufficient fiber intake, aging, stress, anxiety, sickness, pregnancy, overuse of laxatives, changes in daily routine due to travel, sedentary lifestyle, lack of magnesium, spinal cord injuries, delaying bowel movements, and some types of medication. Constipation can also be caused by parasites, diverticulosis, intestinal obstruction, and certain anorectal conditions like hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
Other causes of constipation include irritable bowel syndrome, thyroid problems, diabetes, stroke, hypercalcemia, and Parkinson's disease. Sometimes, it can be a symptom of colorectal cancer or autoimmune disorders. If you pass stools less than thrice a week, you are regarded to be constipated. Constipation is often associated with several symptoms, including strain during passing of stools, hard stools, a sensation of incomplete emptying after bowel movements, a feeling of rectal obstruction, and abdominal pain.
How To Treat Constipation: Chronic constipation can result in serious problems, such as fecal impaction, anal fissures, rectal prolapse, and hemorrhoids. It is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal complaints and therefore everyone should know how to treat constipation. Treatment options for constipation typically consist of diet, laxatives, medications, manual removal of stool, and surgical procedures. Eating 20 to 35 grams of fiber is a great way to combat constipation. Try to cut down the intake of saturated fat, sugars, refined foods, and diary products. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. Include in your diet fruits and vegetables that contain fiber. Whole grains are also a good source of fiber.
Certain lifestyle measures are found to be effective in the management of constipation. It is recommended that those who suffer from constipation should imbibe lots of water everyday and perform regular exercises. Never overlook the urge to have a bowel movement. If diet and lifestyle measures do not work, you can try an over-the-counter laxative. There are many different types of laxatives on the market and each of them works differently. If you think you need a laxative to relieve your constipation, consult with your doctor. He or she may prescribe the right type of laxative for you.
There are several other options as to how to treat constipation. Massaging the abdominal area in a kneading motion helps stimulate bowel movement. Prune juice is a well-known cure remedy for constipation. Drink a glass of prune juice twice a day, one in the morning and one in the evening. If you have chronic constipation, take two or three glasses of prune juice in the morning on an empty stomach. After half an hour drink a glass of apple juice. Then, an hour later imbibe a further cup of apple juice. Add ten dried seedless grapes into a cup of water. After boiling, strain out the grapes and drink the milk. Also, eat the grapes. Drinking a half cup of fresh cabbage juice two times a day is also an efficient cure for constipation. Warm lemon water is another natural remedy for constipation. Add the juice of two lemons to a cup of warm water and drink it once daily.
Read about Herbal Treatment for Constipation. Also know Herbal Treatment for Flatulence.
