Chronic constipation is the inability to have normal bowel movements on a regular basis. It is an ongoing condition that can have a variety of causes. Metabolic imbalances, reactions to medications, neurological disorders and insufficient fiber in the diet can all be causes of irregular bowel movements. Characteristics of chronic constipation are the inability to have a bowel movement on a regular basis and irregular bowel movements consisting of dry, hard stools. Every person is different, and what is normal for one person may not be normal for another.
Improper Diet
Chronic constipation can be caused by a lack of adequate fluid and fiber in the diet. There are two types of fiber that are beneficial to the colon. Water-soluble fiber absorbs excess water and softens the stools. Insoluble fiber is not digested but is moved along the large intestine to add bulk to the stools. This added bulk helps stimulate contractions that cause a bowel movement. Sufficient fluids are needed to aid in the passage of the fiber along the digestive tract and through the large intestine to the colon.
Endocrine Conditions
People with endocrine conditions, such as diabetes or a metabolic imbalance, may also experience bouts of chronic constipation. The digestive tract becomes sluggish due to the inadequate production of the enzymes and hormones needed to help digest the food we eat. It is harder for the body to eliminate foods that are not completely digested. This can also cause cramping, bloating and gas.
Medications
Certain types of prescription and over-the-counter medications may also contribute to chronic constipation. Many narcotics, antidepressants, anticonvulsants and iron supplements list constipation as one of their possible side effects. Antacids that contain aluminum may also have this effect.
Laxatives
The overuse of laxatives may be a contributing factor to chronic constipation. If laxatives are used more often than needed, the body may begin to rely on them. When this occurs, the body stops producing naturally occurring enzymes and digestive fluids. Instead of functioning on its own, it will rely on the triggers provided by the antacids. In some cases, overuse of laxatives can become an addiction that needs to be handled carefully so no lasting damage occurs to the digestive tract.
Neurological Disorders
Spinal injuries, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis may contribute to chronic constipation. These illnesses cause damage to the nerves that stimulate the colon to contract and produce a bowel movement. When the nerves that influence the colon do not work properly, this can slow digestion, as well as inhibit the urge to have a bowel movement. With some spinal injuries, the damage is so severe there is no stimulation to the colon. In these cases, a colostomy procedure may be done to allow for elimination of waste.
References
- Medicinenet.com: Constipation
- Mayo Clinic: Chronic Constipation
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing;" Phyllis A. Balch; 2006
