Bowel Movement: Everything you need to know about constipation

When it comes to bowel movements, we are all different, and what is typical for one individual may be abnormal for another.

With chronic constipation, bowel movements may still occur, but they may be firm, lumpy, and difficult to pass. Although you are still passing faeces, you are not completely emptying your colon, which can be problematic after a while.

Constipation that will not go away might also indicate an underlying digestive issue and can increasingly make the need to go to the toilet unpleasant. Experts note that an infrequent bowel movement that lasts for many weeks and keeps on recurring is categorized as chronic constipation.

Symptoms of constipation include fewer than three stools a week, hard dry or lumpy stools. Straining or pain when passing stools, a feeling that not all stools have passed and a feeling that the rectum is blocked and the need to use a finger to pass stool.

Slow bowel movement may happen when a person does not drink fluids, eat enough dietary fibre, exercise regularly and using the toilet when there is an urge to pass stool.

Chronic constipation can have a variety of causes that are not resolved by dietary or lifestyle modifications, such as increasing fibre intake.

Here are underlaying conditions that might cause chronic constipation

Diabetes

Constipation isn’t often associated with diabetes, but when the hormone insulin is not produced in sufficient quantities, your body will experience a lag in processes, like breaking down blood sugar.

Constipation can occur as a result of diabetes because of damage to the nerves which control your digestive tract.

Diabetes needs to be diagnosed as soon as possible. If you experience chronic constipation, along with symptoms such as constant thirst, sudden weight loss, fatigue and frequent urination, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.

Bowel or colon cancer

Abrupt changes in regular bowel motions are frequently regarded as a warning sign and a primary indicator of stomach and colon cancer. You should consult a doctor if your constipation develops suddenly if changing your lifestyle doesn't make it better, and if you notice black, tarry blood in your stool.

Irritable bowel movement

 One of the most common signs of irritable bowel syndrome is constipation. This can be difficult to diagnose, and experts are still unsure of the specific cause. In the event that IBS is the source of your constipation, you may also have significant bloating, flatulence, and abdominal pain that lasts for a long time or occurs after consuming particular meals.

Blockages in the colon or rectum

Damage or changes to tissues in the colon or rectum can block the passage of stool. Also, tumours in the colon, rectum or nearby tissues can cause a blockage.

Mental illnesses like anxiety or depression
Depression might cause you to alter your food and exercise routine, which can alter your bowel motions. Anxiety can cause your body to be under constant stress, which can also have an impact on your digestive system.

Experts advise that eating fibre-rich foods, drinking plenty of water and not ignoring the urge to pass stool will help avoid developing constipation.