Constipation is often the subject of jokes, but it can be a problematic condition for those who regularly get it, and it can also be a symptom of something far more serious. For temporary occurrences the solution is usually no more than an adjustment to one’s diet. If it happens on a regular basis and you experience other intestinal problems, then you may have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or an inflammatory bowel disease; conditions that can bring a great deal of pain.

Basically, constipation is defined as a condition where it is difficult for the body to expel fecal matter. If feces are hard, then it is very likely that the colon has absorbed too much water from the waste matter, drying the material out and causing the condition. This tends to happen when the feces move through the body too slowly, thus giving the colon extra time to extract the water content. It can happen once in a while, due to a person’s diet and health, or it could be a case of chronic constipation.

There are a number of different symptoms that can indicate a case of constipation. The most obvious is when feces are much harder and dryer than normal, as the water has been extracted from them. This usually makes it harder to expel fecal matter and so straining often occurs during bowel movements. How often one defecates is another matter of importance. Instead of once a day, you could be only going a couple of times a week. This can also cause bloating and abdominal pain as the body struggles to expel waste.

So if you have symptoms, then what can you do? If it is not a serious case, you can look at making changes to your diet as a first and possibly only step. The main change should be an increase of water in your diet. Drinking more water and eating things like fruits and vegetables, which are natural sources of water, will often provide people with constipation relief. If it is a more serious case, then treatment can range from laxatives or stool softeners, all the way to surgery.

Having constipation is no fun at all, and it can greatly interfere with one’s social and work life. A preventative approach is usually the best place to start if you notice bowel problems and symptoms on a somewhat regular basis. Take a close look at your diet and increase your water intake as well as taking more lactose. If that doesn’t relieve your system from pressure and discomfort, then consult with your doctor to ensure that you do not have a more serious condition that requires a more serious solution.

Jeremy Larson is a foremost expert in the acid reflux wedge field. His work has been extensively published in various online publications in this area. For more information on the treatment for acid reflux, visit remedyforacidreflux.com.