Chronic Constipation

It is estimated that chronic constipation leads to nearly 2.5 million doctor visits per year. Chronic constipation is defined in different ways by different people - because the constipation that you are suffering through may not be the same as the next person.

Some people view chronic constipation as the inability to have a proper bowel movement even though they feel the need to go - no matter how long they sit on the toilet nothing happens.

Other people view chronic bowel movement as having a bowel movement only three to four times a week. This can last for months at a time and causes the sensation of being bloated; it can also cause headaches and irritability.

Warning signals of chronic constipation may include bloody diarrhea, severe diarrhea, hard stools, excessive straining or constipation that lasts for longer than two weeks.

Chronic Constipation Causes

Chronic constipation causes include anything that slows down the digestive process - stress, diets low in fiber, and medications. Medications that cause chronic constipation include narcotics such as codeine (Tylenol 3) and oxycodone (Percocet.)

Over-use of stimulant laxatives can cause chronic constipation by damaging the muscles of the colon.

Chronic constipation causes could also be more serious conditions such as colon cancer, irritable bowel syndrome, Parkinson's disease or diabetes.

Chronic Constipation Cures

Depending on the cause of your chronic constipation, there are many approaches to cures. The simplest cure for chronic constipation is to add fiber to your diet, whether by eating more high fiber foods such as fruit, vegetables, and whole grains and beans, or taking a colon cleansing product. Gentle, natural colon cleansers can be used regularly as a chronic constipation cure.

If increasing fiber does not help, speak to your doctor about other chronic constipation cures. Your doctor will want to review your medical history and may want to perform some procedures such as a rectal examination. Because of the amount of people who complain of chronic constipation, you should arrive at your doctor's office prepared. Be very descriptive about the problems you are having with your bowel movements, when they started occurring and what if anything you have done to relieve the problem.

Take the FIRST step to cleaning your colon

Cleansing your colon starts with eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water. This helps keep you regular and puts your body back on track.

But your body can't do it all.

When you're ready to cleanse your body of toxins and undigested food, then you're ready to take the next step in colon cleansing. Keep in mind that colon cleansing isn't for everyone – only for those who want optimal health.