Constipation Home Remedies

You have constipation when you have infrequent bowel movements (generally, fewer than three stools a week), you pass hard stools you have to strain during bowel movements. You may feel a bloated sensation and crampy discomfort. This common problem is often improperly treated.

Like a fever, constipation is a symptom, not a disease. The problem occurs when the passage of food through your large intestine slows down. Contributing factors include: not drinking enough fluids, a diet low in fiber, irregular bowel habits, older age, lack of activity, pregnancy, and illness. Some types of medication also cause constipation.

Constipation can be extremely bothersome but is usually not serious. if it persists, however, constipation can lead to complications such as hemorrhoids and cracks in the anus, called fissures.

Constipation in kids

Young children sometimes experience constipation because they neglect to take the time to use the bathroom. Toddlers may become constipated out of anxiety during toilet training. Stress also plays a role in bowel changes. However, as few as one bowel movement a week may be normal for your child.

To lessen your chance of constipation:

• Eat on a regular schedule (including breakfast) and eat plenty of high-fiber foods, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain cereals and breads.
• Drink plenty of water and other liquids to soften stool.
• Increase physical activity. Exercise stimulates bowel activity.
• Don't ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
• Don't rely on laxatives. Overuse of certain laxatives can be harmful and make constipation worse. Overuse can cause your body to flush out vitamins and other nutrients before they're properly absorbed and interfere with other medications you're taking. Excessive use can also cause lazy bowel syndrome, a condition in which your bowels don't function properly and rely on laxatives for stimulation.

The effectiveness of each type of laxative will vary from person to person. In general, bulk-forming laxatives, or fiber supplements, such as Citrucel and Metamucil, are the gentlest on your body and the safest to use long term. Stimulant laxatives such as Ex-lax and Senokot are the harshest and for long-term use. However, use of any laxative, unless prescribed, can be habit-forming.

Remedies for kids

Have your child drink plenty of fluids to soften stools. Warm baths also may help relax your child and encourage bowel movements. A diet rich in high-fiber foods, such as beans, whole grains, fruits and vegetables will help your child's body form soft, bulky stools. Limit foods that have little or no fiber, such as cheese, meat, and processed foods. Contact your doctor if your constipation is severe or lasts longer than three weeks. In rare cases, constipation may signal more-serious medical conditions such as cancer and hormonal disturbances. Chronic use of certain laxatives add risk if you have heart of kidney failure.