Why do constipation occur

Stool is unable to move forward in the affected area of colon, which causes a backup. A healthcare provider will usually be able to spot these symptoms and recommend surgery as treatment. In most cases, the outlook is good for babies born with this condition. If a breastfed baby goes a week without passing stool, this is not usually a problem. Breastfed infants do not usually experience constipation. If an infant experiences constipation while consuming formula feed, they may benefit from drinking extra water between feeds.

Parents and caregivers should not add extra water to the formula, however. If the infant is already consuming solids, they may need more fiber and water in their diet. Fruit can be a good option. However, do not force children to eat if they do not want to, as this can cause or add to stress. During potty training, constipation can occur if a child feels stressed, especially if other changes are occurring, such as starting at nursery. Giving the child plenty of time to empty their bowels may help.

Many women take iron supplements during pregnancy. These can contribute to constipation and other changes in bowel habits. Constipation usually resolves itself without the need for prescription treatment. In most cases, making lifestyle changes — such as getting more exercise, eating more fiber, and drinking more water — can help. Allowing time for defecation, without stress or interruption, may also help. People should also not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.

Laxatives can improve symptoms in the short-term, but people should use them with care and only when necessary. This is because some laxatives can have severe adverse effects. The Food and Drug Administration FDA urge people to check with their doctor before using them, and to follow the instructions on the label with care. If constipation persists, people should see a doctor. They may need stronger medication.

The doctor may also test for any underlying conditions. Keeping a record of bowel movements, stool characteristics, and dietary and other factors may help find a suitable treatment.

People should only consider using laxatives if making lifestyle changes has not helped. It is best to check with a doctor before use. Fiber supplements : Also known as bulk-forming laxatives, these may be the safest option. FiberCon is one example. People should take these with plenty of water. Bulk-forming laxatives are available from pharmacies and to purchase online. Stimulants : These cause the muscles in the intestines to contract rhythmically.

Senokot is one example. Lubricants : These help the stool move smoothly through the colon. One example is mineral oil Fleet. Defining Constipation Most people think constipation means not having frequent enough bowel movements. People may think if they are having a bowel movement every day, they can't be constipated, but you can meet the medical definition of constipation with just one of these symptoms: Fewer than three bowel movements per week Straining to start or complete a bowel movement Stool consistency that looks like rocks and pebbles A feeling of incomplete emptying Depending on the severity, constipation can cause problems such as abdominal pain and gas.

Excessive straining during bowel movements may also cause: Hemorrhoids swollen anal veins Anal Fissures tears Rectal Prolapse , where part of the rectum sticks out through the anus. Causes of Constipation Constipation has a wide range of causes and risk factors ranging from poor diet to more serious disorders. In terms of how our bodies operate, the causes of constipation fall into three categories: Slow transit: When stool doesn't move through your digestive tract quickly enough, you can become constipated.

Risk factors for slow transit include a low-fiber diet, dehydration and taking certain drugs, such as narcotic pain medication or antidepressants. Intestinal obstruction is another potential cause, which may arise from a bowel blockage, narrow areas in the intestines called strictures or even cancer. Nerve signaling problems: Neurological nerve problems can impact the movement of stool in the digestive tract. Constipation can be an issue for people with conditions such as Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis.

Lower GI gastrointestinal series also called barium enema. A lower GI series is a procedure that examines the rectum, the large intestine, and the lower part of the small intestine. A fluid called barium a metallic, chemical, chalky, liquid used to coat the inside of organs so that they will show up on an X-ray is given into the rectum as an enema. An X-ray of the abdomen shows strictures narrowed areas , obstructions blockages , and other problems.

Colonoscopy is a procedure that allows the doctor to view the entire length of the large intestine, and can often help identify abnormal growths, inflamed tissue, ulcers, and bleeding. It involves inserting a colonoscope, a long, flexible, lighted tube, in through the rectum up into the colon.

The colonoscope allows the doctor to see the lining of the colon, remove tissue for further examination, and possibly treat some problems that are discovered. A sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows the doctor to examine the inside of a portion of the large intestine, and is helpful in identifying the causes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, abnormal growths, and bleeding. A short, flexible, lighted tube, called a sigmoidoscope, is inserted into the intestine through the rectum.

The scope blows air into the intestine to inflate it and make viewing the inside easier. Colorectal transit study. This test shows how well food moves through the colon. The patient swallows capsules containing small markers which are visible on X-ray. The patient follows a high-fiber diet during the course of the test, and the movement of the markers through the colon is monitored with abdominal X-rays taken several times three to seven days after the capsule is swallowed. Anorectal function tests.

These tests diagnose constipation caused by an abnormal functioning of the anus or rectum. Most often, constipation can be treated through dietary and lifestyle changes, which relieve symptoms and help prevent the condition. A healthcare professional may carry out tests to rule out a more serious condition, such as colorectal cancer or irritable bowel syndrome IBS.

It then creates stool waste. If stool remains in the colon too long, it can become hard and difficult to pass. Poor diet frequently causes constipation. Dietary fiber and adequate water intake are necessary to help keep stools soft. Fiber-rich foods are usually plant-based. Fiber comes in soluble and insoluble forms. Soluble fiber can dissolve in water and creates a soft, gel-like material as it passes through the digestive system. Insoluble fiber retains most of its structure as it goes through the digestive system.

Both forms of fiber join with stool, increasing its weight and size while also softening it. This makes it easier to pass through the rectum. Stress , changes in routine, and conditions that slow muscle contractions of the colon or delay your urge to go may also lead to constipation.

Changing your diet and increasing your physical activity level are the easiest and fastest ways to treat and prevent constipation.

If home remedies do not work, a healthcare professional may recommend an over-the-counter laxative , such as:. If you still have trouble with constipation, a healthcare professional may prescribe medications to help, such as:. A healthcare professional may also advise that you stop taking certain medications that may cause constipation.