Constipation occurs when bowel movements become difficult or less frequent. The normal length of time between bowel movements ranges widely from person to person. Some people have bowel movements three times a day while others may have one or two times a week. Going longer than three days without a bowel movement may be a cause for concern. After three days, the stool become harder and more difficult to pass. Constipation may be caused by the following:

• 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, which is sometimes the result of pain from hemorrhoids

• Overuse of laxatives (stool softeners) which, over time, weaken the bowel muscles

• Hypothyroidism

• Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis

• Antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum

• Medicines (especially strong pain medicines, such as narcotics, antidepressants or iron pills)

• Depression

• Eating disorders

• Irritable bowel syndrome

• Pregnancy

• Colon cancer

In some cases, lack of good nerve and muscle function in the bowel may also be a cause. Symptoms that accompany constipation:

• Infrequent bowel movements or difficulty having bowel movements

• Vomiting

• Pain

• Swollen abdomen or abdominal pain

• Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fiber. Good sources of fiber are fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole-grain bread and cereal (especially bran). Fiber and water help the colon pass stool

• Drink two to four extra glasses of water 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 may be constipating for them

• Eat prunes and or bran cereal

• Exercise regularly

• Move your bowels when you feel the urge

• Add fruits and vegetables to your diet

• Try warm liquids, especially in the morning

See your doctor if the problem continues