Reviewed by Dr. Clement J. Cheng
Constipation can be defined as a combination of changes that lead to an overall decrease in stool volume from changes in frequency, size, consistency, and ease of passage. The large intestine absorbs water from stool to make it a solid. When the large intestine absorbs too much fluid, however, constipation may result, making the feces hard, dry, and difficult to pass. Constipation may cause straining, discomfort, and irritation of the lower intestines, and may signal a more serious disorder if it continues for a substantial amount of time. A number of things can cause constipation, including a sudden change of eating habits, medications, pregnancy, dehydration, certain high-protein foods, or an insufficient amount of bran in the diet.
The lower intestine, or colon, absorbs water from the stool, making it solid. Certain conditions will put the colon under more strain, causing constipation. These may include stress, a change in diet, inactivity, lack of fluids ingested, caffeine or alcohol consumption. It may also occur in pregnant women, patients under medication, drug users, or people afflicted with painful anal conditions, such as hemorrhoids. Constipation may be compounded by the fact that drier, harder stool is difficult or uncomfortable to pass, causing the patient to hold the stool in his or her large intestine longer. The longer it is held in the large intestine, the harder and more difficult it is to pass.
