Finding The Answers To The Question “What Is Constipation?”

For the question “What is constipation?” there are several answers. Constipation is a problem affecting approximately 27% of the population in the Western world. In the United States, the sale of laxatives amounts to more than several hundred million dollars annually. Yet what is it we are trying to find a cure for?

Constipation is described as infrequent or incomplete bowel movements. The stools may be dry, hard and difficult to pass. This gastrointestinal (GI)problem is the result of a slow transit time through the GI tract. As the fecal matter stalls, it becomes dry and hard. In order for elimination to take place, the individual strains and pushes hard.

Constipation is a widespread problem. Women are more likely to be affected than men are. To a certain extent, this relates to hormonal imbalances. For example, pregnancy and constipation are frequently co-related as are constipation and hypothyroidism. Age-based constipation is also a factor in what is or is not constipation.

Most instances of constipation are described as “functional.” In this type, the causes of constipation usually relate to what is termed a “lifestyle problem.” Functional constipation is an organic problem. It can be the result or a change in diet or a lack of certain foods. The individual may not consume enough water. He or she may be travelling, and eating and sleeping irregularly. A decrease in or lack of exercise may also be at the root of the problem.

Other types of constipation relate to health issues. They may be the side-effects of medication or  a symptom or characteristic of a specific disease. You can learn what is constipation and its causes by reading the other articles on this site.

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