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By: Josephine Awomodu

Constipation is characterised by difficulties in passing stool. It typically involves having fewer than three bowel movements per week or experiencing challenges in the process. This condition is quite prevalent and can be attributed to factors such as insufficient dietary fiber, inadequate hydration, and a lack of physical activity. However, it’s important to note that various medical conditions or specific medications can also contribute to constipation.

Constipation is commonly addressed through dietary and exercise modifications or the use of over-the-counter medications. In some cases, healthcare professionals may recommend specific medications, alterations in existing medications, or alternative treatments to alleviate constipation.

In the case of chronic or persistent constipation (long-term constipation), the management of underlying medical conditions could be contributing to or exacerbating the issue. It is advisable to schedule a consultation with a healthcare provider if you experience constipation along with any of the following circumstances:

1. Symptoms persisting for more than three weeks.
2. Constipation affects your ability to perform daily tasks.
3. Presence of rectal bleeding or blood on toilet tissue.
4. Blood in stools or the appearance of black stools.
5. Unusual alterations in stool color or shape.
6. Persistent and unrelenting abdominal pain.
7. Unintentional weight loss.

There are certain factors that can elevate the likelihood of experiencing chronic constipation. These include:
1. Advancing in age
2. Being of the female gender
3. Leading a sedentary lifestyle with minimal physical activity
4. Having a mental health condition such as depression or an eating disorder.

SYMPTOMS OF CONSTIPATION
1. Having less than three bowel movements in a week.
2. The presence of hard, dry, or lumpy stools.
3. Experiencing straining or discomfort during bowel movements.
4. A sensation that not all stool has been evacuated.
5. A feeling of blockage in the rectal area.
6. The necessity to manually assist in passing stool, often using a finger.

CAUSES OF CONSTIPATION
The causes of constipation can vary among individuals as bowel movement patterns are unique to each person, typically ranging from three times a day to three times a week. It’s essential to understand your own typical pattern.

Generally, constipation occurs when the passage of stool through the colon, or large intestine, is sluggish. Slow movement of stool can lead to excessive water absorption by the body, resulting in the stool becoming hard, dry, and challenging to expel.

A) Causes Related to One’s Lifestyle Include:
1. Inadequate fluid intake.
2. Insufficient consumption of dietary fiber.
3. Irregular physical activity.
4. Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement.
B) Causes from Medications Include:
Constipation can result from the use of certain medications, with opioid pain relievers being a common culprit. Additionally, there are other medications used to treat various conditions that can lead to constipation, including:
1. Pain management drugs.
2. Medications for high blood pressure.
3. Anti-seizure medications.
4. Antidepressants.
5. Medications for nervous system disorders.
6. Allergy medications.
Some of the medicines that can cause conspiration include:
Strong pain medicines, like narcotics containing codeine, oxycodone (Oxycontin) and hydromorphone (Dilaudid).
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve).
Antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (like fluoxetine [Prozac]) or tricyclic antidepressants (like amitriptyline [Elavil]).
Antacids containing calcium or aluminum, such as Tums.
Iron pills.
Allergy medications, such as antihistamines (like diphenhydramine [Benadryl]).
Certain blood pressure medicines, including calcium channel blockers (like verapamil [Calan SR], diltiazem [Cardizem] and nifedipine [Procardia]) and beta-blockers (like atenolol [Tenormin]).
Psychiatric medications, like clozapine (Clozaril) and olanzapine (Zyprexa).
Antiseizure medications, such as phenytoin and gabapentin.
Antinausea medications, like ondansetron (Zofran).
C) Causes from the Pelvic Floor Muscles
The pelvic floor muscles are responsible for supporting the organs in the lower abdominal area. The ability to both relax and contract these muscles is vital for the passage of stool from the rectum. Problems related to the strength or coordination of these muscles can result in chronic constipation.
D) Causes from Colon or Rectal Obstructions
Obstructions within the colon or rectum can arise due to damage or alterations in the tissues, resulting in a blockage that hinders the normal passage of stool. Furthermore, the presence of tumors in the colon, rectum, or nearby tissues can also lead to such blockages.
Other factors include:
1. Irritable bowel syndrome.
2. Diabetes.
3. Multiple sclerosis.
4. Nerve dysfunction or damage.
5. Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
6. Parkinson’s disease.
7. Pregnancy.
In some cases, the underlying cause of chronic constipation may remain unidentified.

PREVENTION OF CONSTIPATION
You can reduce the likelihood of developing constipation by following these guidelines:
1. Consume a diet rich in high-fiber foods, including vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole-grain foods.
2. Limit your intake of low-fiber foods like processed foods, dairy, and meats.
3. Ensure adequate fluid intake.
4. Maintain an active lifestyle and engage in regular exercise.
5. Pay attention to and respond promptly to the urge to have a bowel movement.
6. Establish a consistent routine for bowel movements, particularly after meals.