Every person has different bowel habits. While some might poop up to 3 times a day, others might pass their stool every alternate day. However, if one experiences less than three bowel movements a week with stools that are dry, hard, and difficult to pass, they are most likely constipated. Read on to learn the most common reasons why one can be constipated and the ways to prevent it.

Symptoms of Constipation

1. Excessive straining while passing stool
2. Hard and lumpy stools
3. A sensation of incomplete evacuation
4. Abdominal bloating, fullness, discomfort, or pain
5. Prolonged time to stool
6. Need for manual manoeuvres such as a finger evacuation or lower abdominal massage

Common Causes of Constipation

While several factors can result in constipation, the most common ones include the following:

1. Dietary choices: This is by far the most common cause of constipation. Dietary habits like low fibre and water intake can induce constipation. If a person is not consuming enough water, they become dehydrated and their gastrointestinal motility reduces. In addition, alcohol and milk products like cheese can also trigger this problem.
2. Medications: Certain medications, including opioids, antidepressants, and iron supplements, can increase the likelihood of constipation. Multivitamins containing excess iron can also have a similar effect on the intestine.
3. Pain: Conditions like haemorrhoidal disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can result in abdominal pain. In such situations, patients try to avoid using the washroom, which may result in constipation.
4. Obstruction: If there's an issue in the gastrointestinal tract, the movement of faeces and urine may get obstructed. Some causes of bowel obstruction include hernia, inflammation, volvulus (twisting of the large intestine), or gastrointestinal carcinoma, like colorectal cancer.
5. Neurological conditions: Neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis, along with endocrinology conditions can also cause constipation. Hypothyroidism (low-functioning thyroid), hypercalcemia (high level of calcium in the blood), hypokalemia (a low level of potassium in the blood), and uraemia, which we may see in chronic kidney disease, are causes of constipation.

Prevention of Constipation

Constipation can be prevented effectively by making some simple changes to the lifestyle. Some of these preventive measures include:

1. Regular exercise: Being physically active can stimulate muscular activity in the intestines, easing bowel movements. Try to exercise for at least 30 mins every day, 5 days a week. You may also consult a doctor to find out which exercises are safe for you to perform.
2. Increase fibre intake: Including fibre in the diet makes the stool heavier and eases its travel through the intestines. Start eating fresh fruits and green vegetables every day to make up for adequate fibre content. Also include raspberries, pears, or apples in your daytime snacks.
3. Go to the toilet when you get the urge: Allow yourself enough time in the bathroom to pass the stool without any interruption or feeling rushed. Do not strain.
4. Laxatives: There are various forms of laxatives that work in different ways to make bowel movements easier. These medications can be bought over the counter without a prescription.

Fortunately, most causes of constipation can be resolved at home with appropriate methods. If you experience fewer than three bowel movements per week or have pain in the abdomen, consult a doctor.

Consult An Apollo Gastroenterologist

Medically reviewed by Dr Sonia Bhatt.