IBS Constipation Cause
Everyone is likely to suffer from constipation at some point in their life but when someone is suffering from IBS, constipation can be extremely uncomfortable, painful and distressing, even if the constipation is mild, due to the fact that the intestines tend to be more sensitive in people with IBS. It is difficult to clearly define exactly what constipation is because what is considered a normal bowel movement varies from person to person but in general, if you have less than three bowel movements a week you could be constipated.
Symptoms of constipation
Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common causes of constipation. Symptoms include:
- Infrequent bowel movements
- When a bowel movement does occur, the stools are often hard and difficult to pass
- Straining whilst trying to have a bowel movement
- Bloating, abdominal cramps and spasms
- Headaches, nausea and decreased appetite
- Halitosis
What is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is often described as a functional disorder of the digestive tract because there is no disease and the structure of the digestive tract appears normal, but for some reason bowel movements are not normal. People with IBS can suffer from constipation, diarrhoea or even alternate bouts of diarrhoea and constipation. Motility is a term used to describe the contraction of the muscles that propel the contents of the intestines toward the rectum so that a bowel movement can be performed. In people with IBS this process is somehow disturbed.
Possible causes of constipation in IBS?
There may be a combination of factors that result in constipation and sometimes, just making a few changes to diet and lifestyle are all that is required to stop it from happening. Some of the possible causes of constipation in IBS include the following:
- Not enough fibre in the diet – fibre bulks out the stools and makes them softer and easier to pass.
- Lack of exercise – if you do little or no exercise, the process of digestion can become sluggish and lead to constipation.
- Not drinking enough fluids – the body needs approximately two litres of fluids a day, this helps to make stools softer and easier to pass.
- Medication – constipation is a side effect of many drugs and over the counter remedies. Overuse of laxatives can result in reduced ability to have a bowel movement without them.
- Hormonal changes – during a period, pregnancy, or the menopause, hormones can have an impact on the digestive process.
- Ignoring the urge to go – busy people will often delay going to the toilet which over time can lead to constipation.
- Changes in routine – changing ones daily routines suddenly can have an impact on bowel movements and cause constipation.
When constipation is associated with IBS it is not a serious health problem. However, if it is prolonged or is accompanied by blood in the stool you should speak to your doctor to rule out other more serious causes.
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