How does constipation occur?

Answer 1

To understand constipation, it helps to know how the colon, or large intestine, works. As food moves through the colon, the colon absorbs water from the food while it forms waste products, or stool. Muscle contractions in the colon then push the stool toward the rectum. By the time stool reaches the rectum it is solid, because most of the water has been absorbed.

Constipation occurs when the colon absorbs too much water or if the colon's muscle contractions are slow or sluggish, causing the stool to move through the colon too slowly. As a result, stools can become hard and dry. Common causes of constipation are

• not enough fiber in the diet
• lack of physical activity (especially in the elderly)
• medications
• milk
• irritable bowel syndrome
• changes in life or routine such as pregnancy, aging, and travel
• abuse of laxatives
• ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• dehydration
• specific diseases or conditions, such as stroke (most common)
• problems with the colon and rectum
• problems with intestinal function (chronic idiopathic constipation)

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Answer 2

Too much water being absorbed by the large intestine. Its most likely caused by a high level of absorbant foods such as bread and crackers. It can also be caused by IBS or irritable bowel syndrome.

Answer 3

Constipation occurs when bowel movements (or defecation) become less frequent or more difficult. It may be harder to defecate or to completely empty the contents of the rectum. Constipation can occur due to a variety of reasons but more commonly, it occurs because of dehydration, lack of fiber in the diet, side effects from medicines, or a disruption in diet. It can also result from a side effect of drugs, particularly those that decrease intestinal motility such as anticholinergics. Also, stress can be an added factor including people who feel anxious or stressed when defecating in public.

There are many ways to avoid constipation. Preventative measures include drinking more fluids and adding a lot of fiber in the diet (things such as fruit, dark greens, and beans). Also, exercising regularly can help also.

Answer 4

Constipation can happen for one of many reasons. The most common of which is a lack of fluid intake, or a lack of nonsoluable fiber. Other reasons can include rare genetic disorders, or an intestinal illness.

Answer 5

Constipation is defined as having a bowel movement fewer than 3 times a week. It is a symptom, not a disease. It has many causes, most which can be corrected or improved, such as:

not enough fiber in the diet

lack of physical activity

medications

milk

irittable bowel syndrome(ibs)

pregnancy

aging

traveling

abuse of laxatives

ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement

dehydration

specific diseases or conditions

problems with the colon or rectum

problems with intestinal function

Answer 6

Your diet.