Constipation

“How long a minute is depends on what side of the bathroom door you're on” – unknown

According to MedicineNet.com, normal constipation is defined as fewer than three bowel movements per week. Severe constipation is less than one bowel movement per week. There is no medical reason to have a bowel movement every day. In fact going without a bowel movement for two or three days usually results in more mental distress than physical discomfort.

A frequently overlooked cause of constipation is medications. Narcotic pain meds (like Tylenol #3), antidepressants, anticonvulsants, iron supplements, Calcium channel blockers and antacids with aluminum can slow the bowels. Another cause is too little hydrating liquids in your diet. Alcohol and caffeine pull water out of your body so think of coffee, tea, and soda as negative fluids. Calcium can harden stools so drink milk in moderation and avoid huge quantities of cheese, ice cream, etc.

Lack of exercise and prolonged bed rest can slow the passage of food through the bowels and cause constipation. The day after my wife had surgery, the nurses made her walk up and down the hallway to get the intestines restarted. She was not allowed to leave the hospital until a bowel movement was made.

Ironically the best way to avoid constipation is MORE fiber in the diet. Many types of fiber bind to water and help retain water within the intestine. Fiber adds bulk (volume) to the stool and the water softens the stool. Natural fibers can be found in fruit, vegetables and whole grains. At least five servings of fruits and vegetables are recommended. If this is not enough, there are fiber supplements (like Metamucil) you can buy at grocery stores and pharmacies.

One side effect of fiber is gas. Since each person is unique in how their digestive system will react to different types of fiber, you should experiment to see what works for you. Try different sources of fiber one at a time; starting with a low dose and increasing the dose every week until your bowels return to normal or troublesome flatulence interferes. (Fiber does not work overnight.) If gas or bloating occurs, either reduce the dose of fiber or switch to a different fiber.

If fiber is not working for you, check out MedicineNet’s description of laxatives, enemas, drugs, etc – their use and side effects. Prunes are a safe and natural laxative but cause gas or cramps with some people. Long term, continuous use of some laxatives can harm the colon and actually cause constipation.

Bottom Line

It is important to distinguish recent onset constipation from recurring, long duration constipation. If you’re suddenly constipated with no prior history, then see a doctor to rule out serious medical illnesses like tumors or cancer of the colon. If you experience constipation with rectal bleeding, abdominal pain and cramps, nausea and vomiting, or involuntary loss of weight then see a doctor.