Constipation is an irregular movement of the stool in the digestive tract, stool moves slower than the normal rate. This slow movement leads to hardness and dryness of the stool, and can’t be eliminated effectively from the rectum. It is an inability to completely empty your bowel. The severity of constipation varies from patient to patient, some people have constipation for a short time and some of them have it for a long time and it is considered as a (chronic constipation). Constipation causes pain, discomfort and affects the quality of life. It may occur in babies, children and adults.

Causes of constipation

• Not eating enough fiber (fruits, vegetables and cereals).
• Changes in lifestyle and eating habits.
• Having limited privacy when using the toilet.
• Side effects of some medications.
• Immobility or lack of exercise.
• Not drinking enough fluids.
• Anxiety or depression.

Symptoms of constipation

• Having lumpy or hard stool
• Straining to have bowel movement
• Feeling that there is a blockage in the rectum that prevent the
• bowel movement
• Passing fewer than three stools a week
• Abdominal pain

Treatment of constipation

Chemical treatment

• Dulcolax
• Raylax
• Glycilax
• Movicol
• Duphalac

Lifestyle modifications

• Drink enough fluids
• Do exercises and move more
• Eat more fiber (berries, broccoli, avocado and popcorn
• Eat vegetables (carrot, broccoli, green peas)

How to protect yourself from constipation

To prevent yourself from constipation you need to follow some guidelines to balance your lifestyle and your daily diet. Eat high-fiber foods such as (vegetables, fruits, whole grain cereals and bran). Avoid eating fast food, processed food, and dairy and meat products. Drink from 2 to 3 liters of water daily. Try to manage your stress. Don’t sit for a long time and do your daily exercises.