Constipation, costiveness, or irregularity, is a condition of the digestive system in where one experiences hard feces that are difficult to expel. Constipation further includes - infrequent bowel movements (typically three times or fewer per week), difficulty during defecation, or the sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation. Chronic constipation can also be experienced by children. The term obstipation is used for severe constipation which prevents the passage of both stools and gas. Causes of constipation may be dietary, hormonal, anatomical, a side effect of medications, or an illness or disorder.
Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints in the United States. More than 4 million Americans have frequent constipation, accounting for 2.5 million physician visits a year.
Treating constipation depends on the cause, severity, and duration of the constipation, usually dietary and lifestyle changes help relieve symptoms and help prevent them from recurring. Treat constipation by making changes in dietary and exercise habits, using laxatives, and by using other medical interventions depending on the underlying cause. People who are mildly constipated fail to require laxatives. There are several home remedy available in treating constipation. The fruits used as natural remedy for constipation are Bael Fruit, Pear, guava, grapes, orange, papaya, figs and spinach.
A few simple tips if followed shall help in relieving symptoms and prevent recurrence of constipation. Some of the tips are as follows- Eat a well-balanced, high-fiber diet that includes beans, bran, whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables; Drink plenty of liquids; Exercise regularly; Fail to ignore the urge to have a bowel movement; etc.