Constipation also known as Dyspepsia refers to bowel movements that are infrequent or hard to pass. Severe constipation includes failure to pass stools and progress to bowel obstruction. It is a common cause of painful defecation. The bowel movement differs from person to person. A normal person goes two to three times a day for bowel cleaning but, if a person who is without a bowel movement for more than three days is considered to be constipated.

Common causes of constipation:-

• Inadequate water intake
• Eating less fiber and large amount of dairy products
• Stress and depression
• Disruption of regular diet due to traveling
• Pregnancy
• Condition’s such as Parkinson’s disease
• Over use of laxatives weakens the bowel muscles
• Hypothyroidism
• Eating disorders
• Colon cancer
• Constipated person should see the doctor if it is more than two weeks and get diagnosed with some tests like blood tests etc.

To deal with constipation:-

• Eat well-balanced diet with plenty of fiber in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grain bread, bran cereals.
• Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
• Drink warm liquids in the morning.
• Eat prunes and prune juice regularly.
• Some exercises and physical activity is recommended for smooth bowel movement.
• Gentle enema is also given.
• Use mild softener or laxative as per doctor’s instruction.
• These are some precautions to treat constipation.