Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal complaint, resulting in 2.5 million doctor visits annually.
In total, about 16 percent of the population experience constipation symptoms.
Constipation happens when digested food spends too much time in your colon.
A wide range of factors can lead to constipation.
These include: (2)
A shift in your daily routine can also lead to constipation.
Some people find that its more difficult to have a bowel movement while traveling, for instance.
(Small hotel rooms with bad soundproofing contribute to the problem!)
How Is Constipation Diagnosed?
A lack of any of these can also be a contributor to constipation.
Other diagnostic tests may include a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscopy, and in rare cases, imaging tests.
But if it lasts for several weeks at a time, its considered chronic.
(5) A 2018 review of medical literature found that 16 percent of people complain of chronic constipation.
There are also prescription medications that helptreat constipation.
(9)
Pay attention to your body signals; if you better go, go without delay.
And dont rush yourself or strain to make it happen.
Put a bit of zen into your bathroom routine and relax.
(10) (Elderly is usually defined as older than 65.)
Other studies suggest that constipation seems to be getting more common.
(12)
Chronic constipation may lead to other difficult issues, as well.
Resources We Trust
Jennifer Payne, MD, is a physician atPenn Medicine Lancaster General Health.
She earned her bachelor’s from the University of St. Thomas, majoring in biochemistry and minoring in theology.
She also completed an elective in medical writing and editing, working withAmerican Family Physicianmagazine.Dr.
Derrow also covers health for New York Presbyterian/Weill-Cornell Hospital in New York City.
She has ghost edited a number of health books and health-related memoirs.
