Chronic Constipation - Very Common

Constipation is defined by infrequent bowel movements and produces hard, small stool. When you are experiencing chronic constipation you may begin to have severe stomach pain, feel bloated around the stomach region and you may feel the urge to have a bowel movement but be unable to do so.

Chronic constipation can be caused by not eating enough dietary fiber, limited intake of liquids, lack of activity or exercise and ignoring the urge of having a bowel movement.

Chronic constipation can be prevented by a well balanced high fiber diet, including fruits and vegetables, drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses of water daily and drinking hot beverages can also stimulate bowel movements. Also, do not allow yourself to rush while having a bowel movement, allow yourself 5 to 10 minutes, regardless if you have a bowel movement or not. This will allow your body to get into a routine of having daily bowel movements.

In addition of the treatments listed above, other common treatments for bowel movements can consist of the use of over the counter laxatives or the use of laxatives prescribed by your primary care physician.

It is important to work closely with your physician to determine the best course of treatment for your chronic constipation. It is equally important to try the non-laxative interventions first as some people can develop a dependency on laxatives that is unhealthy.

Another form of treatment you might consider would be a colonic flush. With this method, an experienced clinician uses a flexible tube inserted into the rectum to flush the colon with large quantities of water. This then flushes out any stool trapped in the colon.

You might also consider fiber supplements and regular relaxing exercises such as yoga or walking to stimulate bowel movements and overall colon health.

Don't despair... It is possible to overcome chronic constipation if you work on your diet and exercise program. If you are still experiencing problems contact your primary care physician.