Are You At Risk For Chronic Constipation?

While some people experience a bowel movement three times a day, others go only once every three days.

This is perfectly normal since everyone enjoys a different diet and make up.

The diagnosis of chronic onstipation will occur when your normal schedule is interrupted.

If you normally go every day, and suddenly can’t have a bowel movement for four or five days, you are constipated. This can be the result of a number of factors.

In most cases the problem can be discovered and fixed without medical intervention. Although, in some cases, medication may be required for a short while to get everything back on track.

Diet Is the First Thing to Consider

The majority of people who experience chronic constipation simply need to eat better. High fiber diet and liquid consumption will usually fix the problem. Foods such as beans, legumes, and whole grains can be very helpful in managing chronic constipation.

Water is also very important. Dehydration is one of the major causes of constipation. It is recommended that at least eight glasses of liquid be consumed daily.

However, everyone is made differently. The key is to drink when you are thirsty. Your body should naturally tell you how much liquid you need.

Some Medications Can Cause a Problem

There are many medications on the market today that can cause chronic constipation. Narcotics are known to cause problems. If you have a health problem that requires the use of pain medication, on a daily basis, you may need to take a stool softener or laxative, to get relief.

However, some vitamins and minerals can also cause a problem. For example, if you take a daily vitamin that is high in Iron, and your diet provides plenty of Iron as well, you may have problems. Iron is known to be a culprit of chronic constipation.

Age Can Be a Factor

Unfortunately, age can be a factor of chronic constipation. As the body ages the digestive system naturally slows. This can be a result of a decline in the production of stomach acid and natural stomach enzymes.

These things are needed to digest food properly and make it quickly pass through the body. When more food is consumed than the body can process, things will quickly back up.

It is estimated that over 10% of people over the age of 60 experience chronic constipation. In younger age groups the occurrence is less than 4%.

Relief is Possible

For most people the reason for chronic constipation is much less important than the cure. If you experience this condition, you are probably much more concerned with how you can get things going again.

There are many foods that are high in fiber that can provide constipation relief. However, there are also new types of yogurt that promise to help get you on a regular schedule. [High fiber foods]

At the same time, if your condition is a result of medication, you may need to speak with your doctor for alternative options. While you are probably more concerned with the cure, the cause may be the key to finding relief.