Constipation is one of the most common bowel problems experienced by Australians and this condition can be distressing and debilitating.
Constipation is the term used to describe when your bowel motions are less frequent and you have trouble passing them as they are often hard and dry. At times you may only be able to pass small amounts or have difficulty passing anything at all. Other signs of constipation may include pain, cramps or swelling in the abdominal area, or perhaps you leave the toilet feeling your bowel is not completely empty.
One of the common causes of constipation occurs because the colon (part of the digestive system) absorbs too much water from your food. If the food moves through the digestive system too slowly, too much water may be absorbed. The bowel contents at the end of the digestive process are then too dry and hard.
Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you think you may have constipation, as they are health professionals who can recommend some ways to help. One way to treat constipation is by taking a ‘laxative’.
Your local community pharmacy is your health destination. Self Care Fact Cards available from these pharmacies include topics such as Fibre and bowel health, Constipation and Haemorrhoids.