Constipation

Constipation is a condition marked by infrequent bowel movements of hard feces that are difficult to pass. Straining, rectal bleeding, and a sensation of fullness are common. In some cases, the constipation alternates with diarrhea and it may be accompanied by abdominal cramps, bloating, and gassiness.

Chronic constipation often leads to hemorrhoids and other rectal problems. Almost everyone experiences periodic bouts of constipation. However, some people mistakenly correlate the condition with a failure to have a daily bowel movement. In reality, colon function varies considerably, and bowel movements as often as three times a day and as infrequently as twice a week fall within the normal range, so long as the stools are easy to pass.

Most constipation is due to insufficient fiber in the diet (25 to 30 grams per day are recommended) and inadequate intake of fluid. Aging, a sedentary lifestyle, depression, emotional stress, the side effects of certain drugs, and overuse of laxatives and enemas can also be responsible. Occasionally, constipation is a symptom of a serious underlying disorder such as colon cancer or a digestive disease.

Diagnostic Studies and Procedures

Constipation is not usually considered significant medically, unless there is a major change in bowel habits that persists for more than one week. In such cases, a doctor will ask about recent dietary changes, drug use, and other possible contributing factors, and then perform a physical examination.

Laboratory tests of blood and stool samples may be ordered; additional diagnostic tests will depend upon results from these initial procedures. For example, a direct examination of the colon with a sigmoidoscope or a colonoscope -- a thin, flexible tube with magnifying and lighting devices -- will be ordered if a colon tumor or other disorder is suspected.

Medical Treatments

Medical treatment is not necessary for simple constipation. In some cases, a short course of a fiber-based stool softener may be recommended, but in general, the use of laxatives and enemas is discouraged because they can disrupt normal bowel function.

If constipation is due to a medication such as codeine or an antidepressant, an alternative drug may be prescribed. In cases of severe obstruction, surgery may be necessary, but this is rare.

Alternative Therapies

Eliminating constipation is a major aspect of many alternative therapies, which include:

Ayurveda. Enemas, herbal emetics, and purgatives are central to panchakarma therapy, the ayurveda program of five cleansings designed to restore the body's natural balance.

Herbal Medicine. A number of herbs have a laxative effect, including cascara sagrada, chicory, dandelion, flaxseed, elderberry, goldenrod. licorice, and psyllium seed. Castor oil is another long-recommended remedy. Though it is not toxic (like other parts of the castor bean), it sometimes causes nausea and vomiting and should be used in small amounts, if at all.

Nutrition Therapy. The vast majority of constipation cases can be treated by increasing the amount of fiber in the diet. One simple remedy is to soak six to eight dried figs or prunes in a glass of water overnight, and drink the water and eat the fruit in the morning.

Nutritionists recommend eating fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain products at every meal and as snacks. Raisins and other dried fruits, brown rice, broccoli, beans, popcorn, and whole-wheat or bran cereals, breads, and crackers are examples of high-fiber foods. Increase fiber intake gradually to avoid bloating, abdominal cramps, and gassiness. Coffee and tea also act as laxatives for some people.

Self-Treatment

Most constipation can be eliminated by adopting a high-fiber diet, drinking 8 to 10 glasses of fluid each day, and establishing a regular exercise program. When you first get up in the morning, drink a glass of warm water with a teaspoon of lemon juice or blackstrap molasses stirred in. This tonic, followed by food entering an empty stomach, helps to stimulate muscle contractions and push residue out of the bowel. Set aside a specific lime each day to devote at least 10 minutes to an unhurried attempt at a bowel movement. If possible, try to do this about an hour alter eating breakfast.

Other Causes of Constipation

An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can cause constipation. Chronic constipation and recurrent pain in the lower abdomen could be a sign of diverticular disease, irritable bowel syndrome, or intestinal cancer.