CONSTIPATION

Constipation is a condition marked by infrequent bowel movements of hard feces that are difficult to pass. Straining, rectal bleeding and a sensation of fullness is common.
In some cases, the constipation alternates with diarhhea and it may be accompanied by abdominal cramps, bloating, and gassiness. Chronic constipation often leads to hemorrhoids and other rectal problems.
Almost everyone experiences periodic bouts of constipation. However, some people mistakenly correlate the condition with a failure to have a daily bowel movements.
In reality colon function varies considerably, and bowel movements as often as three times a day and as infrequently as twice a week fall within a normal range, as long as the stools are easy to pass.

Most constipation is due to insufficient fiber in the diet (25-30gm per day are recommended) and inadequate intake of fluids. Aging, a sedentary life style, depression, emotional stress, the side effects of certain drugs, and overuse of laxatives and enemas can also be responsible.

Occasionally, constipation is a symptom of a serious underlying disorder such as colon cancer or a digestive disease.

DIAGNOSTIC STUDIES AND PROCEDURES:
Constipation i not usually considered significant medically, unless there is a major change in bowel habits that persists for more than one week. In such cases, the doctor will ask about recent dietary changes, drug use and other contributing factors, and then perform a physical examination.

Laboratory  tests of blood and stool samples may be ordered; additional diagnostic tests will depend upon results from these initial procedures. for example a direct examination of colon with a Sigmoidoscope or a colonoscope (a thin, flexible tube with magnifying and lighting devices) will be ordered if a colon tumor or other disorder is suspected.

MEDICAL TREATMENTS:

• Medical treatments are not necessary for simple constipation. in some cases, a short course of a fiber-based stool softener may be recommended, but in general, the use of laxatives and enemas is discouraged because they can disrupt normal bowl function.

• If constipation is due to a medication such as, codeine or an antidepressant, an alternative drug may be prescribed. in cases of severe obstruction, surgery my be necessary, but this is rare.

ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES:
Eliminating constipation is a major aspect of many alternative therapies, which include,

• Herbal Medicines: A number of herbs have a laxative effect, including cascara sagrada, chicory, dandlion, flaxseed, elderberry, goldenrod, licorice, and psyllium seed.
• Castor Oil is another long-recommended remedy. though it is not toxic, it sometimes cause nausea and vomiting and should be used in small amounts, if at all. or along with milk etc.

• Nutrition Therapy: The vast majority of constipation cases can be treated by increasing the amount of fiber in the diet. one simple remedy is to soak 6-8 dried figs or prunes in a glass of water overnight, and drink the water and eat the fruit in the morning.
• Nutritionist recommend eating fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products at every meal and as snacks.
• Rasins and other dried fruits, brown rice, beans, popcorn and whole wheat or bran cereals, breads and crackers are example of high fiber diet.
• Increase fiber intake gradually to avoid bloating, abdominal cramps, and gassiness.
• Coffee and tea also act as laxatives for some people.
• Constipation can be decreased by increasing water intake.
• When you wake-up in the morning then drink a glass of warm water with a teaspoon of lemon juice, this tonic helps to improve muscle contractions and push reside out of bowl..