It seems that as we age, we get more fixated on our bowels habits and having a regular bowel movement becomes the highlight of our day. Most often constipation that comes with aging is due to multiple factors.
As we age, we are often less physically active which also impacts normal stooling due to a slowed gastrointestinal tract. We also take in fewer fluids because our thirst mechanism is not as efficient as it was when we were younger. We also may suffer from incontinence of urine and drinking fluids makes this worse. We may not be able to get enough fiber in our diet which leads to constipation. Alcohol and caffeine have an impact on constipation. Junk food and sugary foods are often causes as well. One of the biggest culprits is medications. One of the side effects of many common medications is constipation.
Constipation and its symptoms can be described a number of different ways.
Laxatives are habit forming and should not be used routinely. They should not be used to replace healthy eating and living habits. If a laxative is occasionally needed, take the mildest kind, so you do not have diarrhea.
Medications that can lead to constipation include diuretics or water pills, anti-acids with calcium and aluminum, cold products, medications with anticholinergic effects, opiate pain medications, antidepressants and blood pressure medications. Medications are chemicals and have systemic effects when taken.
If you are suffering from constipation, try altering your lifestyle and diet first. If that is not effective, speak to your healthcare provider for recommendations for the safest treatments. Do not ignore this problem because it seems unimportant. Evacuating waste from your body is a normal function and needs to occur to keep you healthy. Get in touch with your healthcare professional for more advice.