Constipation, as often interpreted by most people, is a condition in which the stool or feces is lumpy, hard, and dry, difficult or painful to pass, sometimes accompanied by blood.
This chronic illness is more precisely referred to as decreased frequency of bowel movements. It can happen to anyone of any age, including babies. It is more common in women than in men, especially during pregnancy. Older women are also more likely to experience constipation. Those who often refuse to move when receiving signals from their intestines are most likely to experience constipation.
The intestinal habits vary between individuals. Some people use the movement more than once a day. Some people clean their bowels once a day or once on the second day. In general, those are considered to be constipated if they do not pass or do not pass stool within three days or more. People who can no longer survive the movement after exercising or pressing for more than ten minutes are also considered constipated.
Due to a busy schedule, a person may not have had enough time in the bathroom to completely empty their bowels. This leads to an accumulation of feces after some time. The large intestine is stretched and cramped by the accumulation of waste material, which ultimately leads to hard stools that are larger than normal and difficult to pass.
While constipation is “normal” in the human population, it should not be treated lightly! Severe constipation can lead to anal fissures leading to rectal bleeding, rectal prolapse (most common in people over 60), and bowel or bowel disorders.
Poor diet and lack of exercise are the most common causes of constipation. In most cases, constipation can be prevented by a balanced, high-fiber diet with whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruit. Dietary fiber helps maintain a healthy and well-functioning digestive system. Drink lots of water so that our body does not become dehydrated and has to absorb the liquids from the waste products in the intestine. Do sports regularly. Abdominal exercises are recommended so that the muscles of the large and small intestines work properly. Do not ignore the body’s signal if it alerts you to go to the bathroom.
Constipation affects us all at one time or another. It is not advisable to rely on laxatives for mild constipation. An overdose of laxatives leads to diarrhea and stomach cramps. It will also cause dehydration in the body. Continued use of laxatives affects normal bowel function and exacerbates the problem.