Common Causes of Constipation

Many factors can dispose a person to constipation. Some can easily be prevented by changing habits and lifestyle, but often the reason(s) are not so obvious.

Common Causes of Constipation

1. Lack of Exercise: Regular exercise promotes good muscle tone, including abdominal and diaphragm muscles, which play a role in bowel movements.

2. Opioids: Opioid pain medications can lead to constipation by affecting the receptors in the digestive tract.

3. Medications: Various medications, including antacids with aluminum, antispasmodics, antidepressants, tranquilizers, sedatives, diuretics, and others, may cause constipation.

4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can result in sluggish bowel movements, straining, abdominal discomfort, and alternating constipation with diarrhea.

5. Overuse of Laxatives: Inappropriate use of laxatives, particularly in conditions like anorexia nervosa or bulimia, can contribute to constipation.

6. Changes in Life or Routine: Traveling, aging, pregnancy, and disruptions in routine can impact bowel habits and lead to constipation.

7. Ignoring the Urge: Suppressing the urge to have a bowel movement can contribute to constipation over time.

8. Dietary Factors: Diets low in fiber and fluids, high in fats, or lacking variety can contribute to constipation. Increasing fiber intake is a common remedy.

9. Neurological Disorders: Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injury, stroke, or multiple sclerosis can affect bowel function.

10. Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders: Diseases such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease may lead to constipation.

11. Bowel Cancer and Diverticulitis: Conditions like bowel cancer and diverticulitis can cause changes in bowel habits.

12. Systemic Conditions: Diseases like scleroderma can contribute to constipation.

13. Intestinal Obstructions: Obstructions caused by scar tissue (adhesions), strictures, or other structural issues can compress the intestine, leading to constipation.

It’s important to address constipation based on its underlying cause. Lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and medical interventions may be recommended depending on individual circumstances. If constipation persists or is accompanied by concerning symptoms, seeking medical advice is crucial for proper evaluation and management.