There is a famous saying Jesus once quoted, "All things must come to pass." Sometimes, no other words ring more true. Unfortunately, there are people who suffer from an inability to pass anything. I'm not talking about exams, either. I'm talking about a subject that's a little more sensitive and a lot more personal. I'm talking about constipation.

We asked a few leading doctors on the subject of digestive disorders about constipation and here are some of the more common questions doctors get asked concerning the subject matter. Some of these doctors were also kind enough to give some answers and suggestions.

What Is Constipation?

Constipation happens when bowel movements become difficult or less frequent. The normal length oftime between bowel movements varies from person to person. Some people have bowel movements around three times a day; while others, only one or two times a week. Going longer than three days without a bowel movement is too long. After three days, the stool or feces become harder and more difficult to pass.

You are considered constipated if you have two or more of the following for at least three months:


Straining during a bowel movement more than a quarter of the time.
Hard stools more than a quarter of the time.
Incomplete evacuation more than a quarter of the time.
Two or fewer bowel movements in a week.


What Causes Constipation?

Constipation is usually caused by a disorder of bowel function rather than a structural problem.

Common causes of constipation include:


Inadequate water intake.
Inadequate fiber in the diet.
A disruption of regular diet or routine; traveling.
Inadequate activity or exercise or immobility.
Eating large amounts of dairy products.
Stress.
Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement, this is sometimes the result of pain from hemorrhoids.
Overuse of laxatives which, over time, can weaken the bowel muscles.
Antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum.
Depression.
Eating disorders.
Irritable bowel syndrome.
Pregnancy.
Colon cancer.


How Can I Prevent Constipation?


Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fiber. Fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain bread and cereal (especially bran) are great sources of fiber. Fiber and water help the colon pass stool.
Drink 1 1/2 to 2 quarts of water and other fluids a day. Liquids that contain caffeine, such as coffee and soft drinks, seem to have a dehydrating effect and may need to be avoided until your bowel habits return to normal. Some people may need to avoid milk, as dairy products can be constipating for them.
Exercise regularly.
Move your bowels when you feel the urge.


What Should I Do If I am Constipated?


Drink two to four extra glasses of water a day. Try drinking warm liquids, especially in the morning.
Add fruits and vegetables to your diet.
Eat prunes and/or bran cereal.
If needed, use a very mild stool softener or laxative. Do not use laxatives for more than two weeks without calling your doctor, as laxative overuse can aggravate your symptoms.

Seek the opinion of your doctor before following of any diet treatment and regiment. Only a doctor can provide you with advice on what is safe and most effective for you.