Identifying Constipation Symptoms

Constipation is a condition marked by the irregular and infrequent removal of solid waste that has become dry and hardened. As a rule, identifying constipation symptoms is not complicated. However, they could be confused for other conditions.

When constipated, a person may experience what many sufferers have simply termed, feeling sick. There may also be stomach aches and cramps, headaches, no desire for food, furred tongue, tiredness and of course a change in bowel movements. In some cases depression is also a symptom.

When these indicators arise and remain for several days or if they are severe and extremely painful a visit to a medical professional is recommended. As stated earlier, what looks like constipation symptoms may actually be signs of a more serious ailment.

Once a person is certain that his maladies are resulting from problems in the intestines, there are several treatment options from which to choose. Let’s take a look at some of the causes of constipation as a means of finding ways to prevent and remedy the condition.

Failure to drink enough liquids or a diet that does not contain enough fruits and vegetables can lead to problems in this area. These foods contain fiber, which helps keep the body regular. Liquids keep the body hydrated and lessen the chance of hard dry stools.

As some medications can rob the body of liquids, they can also lead to constipation. Lack of physical activity, too much of certain elements (such as calcium and iron) and weakened bowel muscles (from aging or surgery) can lead to irregular stools. Also diuretics (tea and coffee) can rob the body of liquids by increasing urination. Medical conditions such as anxiety and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) can also bring on the condition.

It bears repeating that while constipation symptoms are seldom a serious medical concern; the ailment should be treated to prevent further health problems.