Constipation and Your Colon

Constipation itself is not an illness nor a disease. It's an indication of some other problem or imbalance in the colon or digestive system.

A person who has a bowel movement fewer than three times a week is considered to have constipation. Stools are often unusually hard, dry and small, and may even be painful to pass.

There can be some long term consequences to the colon and to overall health when a person is constipated. One of the most common is hemorrhoids.

A condition called a rectal prolapse can occur. This takes place when part of the intestinal lining pushes out through the anal opening. A prolapse generally isn't as serious as it sounds, although in some rare, extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to repair it.

Fecal impaction may also occur. Fecal impaction means that stool is packed so tightly in the rectum (the lower part of the colon) that it can't be pushed out.

Causes of constipation Constipation results from a number of causes. Here are the most common:

• certain diseases or conditions (stroke may be the most common)
• certain medications
• dehydration
• IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) 
• insufficient liquid intake
• intestinal malfunction due to a variety of causes
• laxative abuse
• life changes, including aging and pregnancy
• milk
• problems with the colon and rectum
• sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise
• too little fiber in the diet
• travel and eating unusual foods

Some medications can trigger a case of constipation. These include:

• antacids that contain aluminum and calcium
• anticonvulsants
• antidepressants
• anti-Parkinson drugs
• antispasmodics
• calcium channel blockers (blood pressure medications)
• diuretics
• iron supplements
• pain medications (especially the narcotic variety)

Treatment

In most cases, constipation is fairly easy to treat. When you look at the list of causes above, it's just a matter of common sense determining what to do. Eat more fiber. Drink more liquids. Get more exercise. And so on.

However, laxatives are sometimes in order, and they should be taken with care. It's best to get a doctor's advice. This would also be a smart thing to do if your constipation is being caused by a medication. See constipation medications for more information.

Some patients with chronic constipation caused by colon problems or anorectal dysfunction have experienced some success using biofeedback and retraining the muscles that control bowel movements. This should also be done with the guidance of a medical professional.

In extreme cases, like a condition called colonic inertia, your doctor might recommend surgical removal of the colon. But, as with all surgery, the benefits must be weighed carefully against the risk of possible complications like abdomen pain and diarrhea.

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