Chronic Constipation: Myths and Facts!!

Constipation is the most common digestive problem seen in children, adults and old people. It makes life miserable and painful. Chronic constipation is characterized by infrequent bowel movements for weeks at a time. Chronic constipation includes straining or difficulty in passing stools. However it is associated with a number of facts like

Myth 1:- If bowel movements occur fewer than 5-6 times a week, it is considered to be chronic constipation.

Fact 1:- Three bowel movements a week is completely normal. Moreover almost 95% of adults have bowel movements between 3 to 21 times a week.

Myth 2:- When bowel movements are infrequent toxins gets accumulated in the intestine.

Fact 2:- There is no scientific evidence which supports the above statement.

Myth 3:- The frequency of bowel movements increases with age

Fact 3:- Studies shown that bowel movements usually decreases with age

Myth 4:- Not many people suffered from chronic constipation

Fact 4:- Chronic constipation is a serious health issue affecting almost 15-20% of the population

Myth 5: You should never suffer from constipation if you eat right, exercise well and drinks plenty of fluids.

Fact 5:- Constipation is not only caused by physical factors but also by psychological issues.