What is Constipation?
Constipation is defined as an undue delay in the evacuation of stools. It is a common complaint. It may be due to abnormal retention of fecal matter or delay in discharge from the rectum. Stools may be described as infrequent, incomplete or unusually hard. Unusual straining may be required to achieve defecation.
A review of such habits often reveals correctable causes such as insufficient dietary roughage, lack of exercise, suppression of the defecation urge due to inconvenience, inadequate allotment of time for full defecation, prolonged travel and poor toilet training.
Chronic constipation leads to piles and anal fissures. When constipation alternates with
diarrhea, the possibility of cancer colon or cancer rectum must be seriously considered.
Management of Constipation
1. Consult a doctor.
2. Drink enough water.
3. Avoid junk food. Increases the roughage in. the diet. Eat at regular intervals,at regular
times and eat the right foods
4. Exercise is the most important.