Constipation refers to a situation where bowel movements happen less often than normal or are tougher than usual. Almost everyone goes through this problem, maybe sooner or later. You feel much better when your body is back on track, although it’s not usually such a serious issue. The standard span of time between bowel movements differs widely among individuals. Some people might have only once or twice a week, while others may have them two to three times a day. However, it is not usual that a person goes without bowel excretion for more than three days as with more number of days, the stool or feces become harder to pass.

What are the causes of constipation?
Well, the obvious causes of constipation include repeatedly ignoring the urge to go to the washroom, a low-fiber diet, inadequate water intake throughout the day, or lack of workout and physical activity.

Constipation can also be symptom or side effect of many health conditions, which can cause stool to pass more slowly through the colon. Among other causes of constipation, certain supplements and medications also play a major role.

Painkillers
Painkillers, specifically narcotics, can cause constipation. Many receptors are located in the digestive tract for the opiate class of drugs, so it tends to bring everything to a standstill. Some studies also suggest that there might be a greater risk of constipation for people who are persistent users of pain relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin.

Vitamins
Vitamins, in general, are not the causes of constipation. However, individual elements, such as iron and calcium, may act as an obstacle and lead to constipation. It is advisable for a patient to stop taking iron or calcium unless they are prescribed by the doctor.

Neurological conditions and diabetes
Nerve damage is one of the primary side effects that diabetes can cause, thereby affecting a person’s capability to digest food. Most people with advanced diabetes are already aware of this fact. Due to nerve problems, people with diabetes are not able to contract their abdominal muscle properly. This dysfunctionality causes constipation as the peristaltic effect is hampered. Still, it’s wise to do a blood sugar test on someone who is regularly constipated.Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or multiplied sclerosis can also be one of the causes of constipation. However, this problem is accompanied by trouble in urinating as well.

Overuse of laxative
Some laxatives work by inciting bowel movement. Stimulant laxatives like this should be taken only as shown. If used for extended periods of time, our body becomes addicted to the stimulant laxatives, which mean it just won’t operate properly without them. These stimulant laxatives include Ex-Lax, Dulcolax, Senna, and others. It is advisable to not take any medication that includes laxatives for a longer span of time than directed by your doctor. Else check the time mentioned on the labels of the product and use it accordingly.

Consuming dairy products in excess
Excess consumption of dairy products can be one among the various causes of constipation.A high-fat diet consisting of cheese and other low-fiber foods like meat and eggs can reduce your metabolism. To stay on the healthier side, increase the intake of fiber to 20 to 30 grams every day. If you are still going for a cheat meal and opting for a diet that includes red meat, cheeses, and eggs, mix in some green salads or other fiber-rich food to it. It is advised to bypass processed foods and fast foods, which are low in fiber.

Medicine to treat blood pressure and allergies
Allergy medicines and blood pressure also lead to constipation. Some common drugs used to treat high blood pressure like diuretics and calcium channel blockers result in constipation.Diuretics, for example, lower blood pressure by raising urine output, which cleans water from your system. However, water is required to keep stools soft and get them out from your body. Antihistamines applied to prescribed allergy indications can also be causing a problem.

Aging
One of the major causes of constipation can be age. Aging can hinder bowel movement to a considerable level, so preventive steps should be taken to keep your bowel actions regular. To get more personalized information, talk to your doctor and check if your constipation is a side effect of another health obstacle. A consultation is an excellent idea to verify with your physician if there is a notable difference in your bowel habits.

Constipation can be painful and embarrassing to talk about. It can be even more awkward to deal. So, it is important that you pay close attention to your daily routine and lifestyle habits. You must check if you can point out the exact causes of constipation in your case. A body which is healthy and has a healthy digestive system will be free from the problem of constipation.