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About Constipation

If you have questions about constipation, you’re not alone. Constipation affects an estimated 63 million people in North America, making constipation one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints.1

Constipation can certainly interfere with your day. So, it’s helpful to know some of the lifestyle or daily routine changes that may cause constipation. A change in diet or lack of fiber or liquids can disrupt your normal bowel movements. Travel can also lead to constipation. In addition, ignoring the urge to use the bathroom when you need to go could result in constipation.2

In general, we say a person is constipated when he or she is experiencing discomfort as a result of infrequent, irregular, or difficult bowel movements.
In terms of frequency, what constitutes normal differs greatly from person to person; it may mean as many as 3 bowel movements a day or as few as 3 or 4 bowel movements a week. Healthcare providers often rely on a person’s report of the uncomfortable effects of constipation — such as bloating, excessive gas, straining and even pain due to hard, dry stools — as the best indicator that he or she is really experiencing constipation.2

References:

  1. Higgins PD, Johanson JF. Epidemiology of constipation in North America: a systematic review. Am J Gastroenterol. 2004;99(4):750-9
  2. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). Constipation. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/constipation. Accessed March, 2021.

Common Symptoms

How do you know when you are constipated? If you are experiencing one or more of the following signs, you may be constipated. Always speak to your doctor if your symptoms last more than one week.

  • Less frequent bowel movements
  • Hard, dry stools that are difficult and/or painful to pass
  • Excessive gas or abdominal bloating
  • The sensation of a full rectum, even after you have had a bowel movement

Eat More Fiber

Found in many fruits, vegetables, and whole grain breads and cereals, fiber helps your body develop soft, bulky stools. In addition to adding healthy fiber to your diet, try to avoid over-processed foods with little fiber, such as chips, pizza, ice cream, frozen dinners, and instant potatoes.

Drink Adequate Fluids

Keeping your stools soft and easy to pass requires plenty of fluids. Concentrate on drinking unsweetened fruit juices, herbal teas, and just plain water, as caffeine and alcohol-containing beverages tend to dry out your system.

Get Plenty of Exercise

Exercising every day may help prevent and relieve constipation. Check with your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

Don’t Ignore the Urge to Have a Bowel Movement

People with busy schedules, those who don’t want to interrupt their work, and folks who don’t like to use public facilities are just a few examples of those who sometimes don’t stop and take the time to have a bowel movement. Repeatedly ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement, or just delaying a stop at the bathroom, can actually make you lose the ability to feel that urge which in turn can lead to constipation. So, when the urge comes, pay attention.

Ask Your Doctor or Pharmacist If Medications Are Causing Your Constipation

There are many over-the-counter and prescription medications known to be associated with constipation.

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