Constipation is a condition in which an individual’s bowel movements become less frequent or difficult to pass, resulting in discomfort, bloating, and pain.

While it is prevalent among people of all ages, it has become a frequent issue for millions of people worldwide in recent years. There are several reasons why constipation has become a growing concern, and in this article, we will explore some of these reasons and possible solutions.

Reasons for Recent Increase in Constipation Cases

Constipation can be caused by numerous factors, including unhealthy eating habits, lifestyle choices, and health conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, and colon cancer.

In recent years, however, there have been some new reasons for constipation becoming more common. Below are some of the factors:.

Poor Diet

Consumption of unhealthy foods that are high in fats, processed sugars, and low in fiber has been on the rise in recent years. These foods are low in nutrients and high in calories, and consuming them can impact bowel movement.

A lack of fiber in the diet can cause constipation as it makes it difficult for the body to pass stools. As a result, many people are experiencing poor digestion and stomach discomfort, resulting in constipation.

Sedentary Lifestyle

Sedentary lifestyle is another reason for the rise in constipation cases. Nowadays, people tend to spend most of their time sitting and being inactive.

Whether it’s a desk job or spending time watching TV and playing video games, it means that the body is not getting enough exercise. When the body is not active, digestion slows down, resulting in constipation. Even light exercises like walking, jogging, or yoga can be helpful in maintaining digestive health and reducing the risk of constipation.

Medications

Sometimes, constipation can be a known side effect of certain medications. Pains medication, certain muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and diuretics are known to cause constipation.

This is because some medications slow down gut motility, which means that food moves slower throughout the digestive tract. As a result, stools become harder to pass, leading to constipation.

Stress

Stress is another cause of constipation. When you are stressed, the digestive process slows down, which means that the body takes longer to digest food. Chronic stress can also lead to changes in gut microbiome, causing constipation.

It is essential to manage stress to keep your digestive health in check. Regular exercises, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and improve digestion.

Dehydration

Dehydration, which is becoming increasingly common nowadays, can cause constipation. Water plays a vital role in digestion as it helps soften stools and lubricate the colon walls, promoting regular bowel movement.

When your body is dehydrated, stools can become harder and challenging to pass. It is, therefore, important to drink sufficient water and other fluids to keep your body hydrated.

Ignoring the Urge to Defecate

Ignoring the urge to defecate is a growing problem among people. Many individuals delay their bowel movements because of social reasons or being busy products, causing stool to harden and become difficult to pass.

Over time, if your body gets used to ignoring the call to defecate, it can lead to chronic constipation. It is essential to listen to the body and not ignore the urge to defecate.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, there is a change in hormones that can cause constipation. The growing uterus can also put pressure on the colon, leading to slower bowel movements.

Pregnant women should consume a diet high in fiber, drink plenty of water, and exercise regularly to lessen the risk of constipation without harming the fetus.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) such as Colitis, Crohn’s, and Diverticulitis, are conditions that can cause inflammation of the intestinal walls and poor bowel movement.

These conditions can lead to constipation, diarrhea, and other digestive issues. Individuals with IBD must maintain a healthy diet and hydration level, as well as receive prescribed medications to maintain good digestive health.

Weak Pelvic Muscles

Weak pelvic muscles are a common cause of constipation among older men and women. The pelvic muscles help in controlling bowel movement, and when they become weak, it becomes difficult to pass stools.

Pelvic floor exercises, also known as kegel exercises, can help strengthen these muscles, aiding with healthy bowel movements thus, promoting better digestive health.

Treatment for Constipation

Constipation, when not severe, can be treated with some lifestyle changes, such as a healthier diet and regular exercise. In more severe cases of constipation, over-the-counter medications like laxatives can be used.

However, it is essential to consult with your doctor before using any medication. In some cases, constipation can be a symptom of an underlying health condition and seeking treatment for the condition can help alleviate the constipation.

Your doctor can conduct physical examinations, look for signs of gastrointestinal issues, like infection, IBD, and cancer to provide the right treatment.

Conclusion

Constipation can be uncomfortable and painful, but it can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes such as drinking more water, eating a high-fiber diet, and regular exercises.

In cases of chronic constipation, consulting with a doctor is critical to avoid any severe health complications.