Constipation is a very common problem, especially
in India, and affects millions of people worldwide. Expenditure
on laxatives and other treatments alone run into billions of dollars
every year. Prevalence is higher among women and is particularly
acute in the elderly.
What is Constipation?
Constipation is a common disturbance of the digestive tract. In
this condition, the bowels do not move regularly, or are not completely
emptied when they move. Constipation is the chief cause of many
diseases, as this condition produces toxins, which find their
way into the bloodstream and are carried to all parts or the body.
This results in weakening of the vital organs and lowering of
the resistance of the entire system. For comfort and for health,
at least one good bowel movement a day is essential and considered
normal.
Causes
Our lives of constant rush, late nights and fast food - low fibre
diets have turned constipation into a common problem of epidemic
proportions. Lack of exercise and not drinking enough water also
contribute. However, some people have a good diet, drink a lot
of fluid, do not have a disease which can cause constipation,
and yet they become constipated. Their bowels are said to be 'under
active'. This is quite common, more so for women than men. This
condition often starts in childhood or in early adulthood, and
persists throughout life. Many children are constipated as well.
Pregnant women often suffer from constipation and experience constipation
following childbirth or surgery.
Other Causes
Mental factors like, insomnia, nervousness, stress also cause
constipation, as do medical causes like fever, infections and
being bedridden for long.
Some medicines also cause constipation: painkillers (particularly
those with codeine), some antacids, some antidepressants, iron
tablets and morphine.
Also some medical conditions: an under-active thyroid, irritable
bowel syndrome (IBS) and conditions that cause poor mobility,
particularly in the elderly.
What is IBS -
Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a syndrome, meaning a group
of symptoms. The most common symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain
or discomfort often reported as cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea,
and/or constipation. IBS affects the colon, or large bowel, which
is the part of the digestive tract that stores stool.
IBS is not a disease. It's a functional disorder, meaning that
the bowel doesn't work, or function, correctly.
What causes IBS?
Doctors are not sure what causes IBS. The nerves and muscles in
the bowel appear to be extra sensitive in people with IBS. Muscles
may contract too much when you eat. These contractions can cause
cramping and diarrhea during or shortly after a meal. Or the nerves
may react when the bowel stretches, causing cramping or pain.
IBS can be painful. But it does not damage the colon or other parts of the digestive system. IBS does not lead to other health problems.
What are the symptoms of IBS?
The main symptoms are:
- abdominal pain or discomfort in the abdomen, often relieved by or associated with a bowel movement
- chronic diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both.
Other symptoms are:
- whitish mucus in the stool
- a swollen or bloated abdomen
- the feeling that you have not finished a bowel movement
For more information on IBS - Click
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