What is Constipation?

Constipation is the health condition when someone has less frequent bowel movements or when one has to strain to push out stools. In the west, having a bowel movement once in 3 days is within normal. However in the Indian population we consider bowel movement not happening for 2 days as abnormal.

Why does it happen?

Mostly it is because of inadequate intake of fluids, less fibre as in vegetables and fruits, more junk foods and excess non vegetarian foods. Advancing age is also a common reason.

Should I worry about it ?

The most common reason that pops up in the mind is cancer causing constipation. It is rare and let the doctor do the analysis.

Is piles the same as constipation?

Commonly people use the term piles to denote any constipation or any pain in anus or any bleeding from anus. Piles is actually protrusion of vascular tissue via the anus, generally causes painless bleeding and constipation can trigger it. Pain and burning at anus with or without bleeding usually happens in fissure which can also be triggered by constipation.

What should I do if I have constipation?