Chronic Constipation – What Is It?

Chronic constipation is defined as constipation that occurs on a frequent basis. For most people, the frequency or infrequency of bowel movements is what they use as a barometer for whether or not they are chronically constipated. The reason for this is that what is regular for some people is not regular for others. Therefore, what is considered constipated by some, is perfectly normal for others. However, if you are bothered by constipation on a more than normal basis, you probably are one of the many sufferers in the world.

For many people, the definition of chronic constipation is a bowel movement of less than three times a week that goes on for several months at a time. However, many experts feel that a lot of people who are convinced they suffer from it may actually have underestimated the frequency of their bowel movements. That would mean that this definition would be inaccurate.

Less than fifty percent of the population has one bowel movement a day. So if you aren’t having one every day, this doesn’t mean that you’re constipated. It simply means that what’s normal for you is a bit less frequent than for others. Some people even believe that having less than five bowel movements a week means that you have chronic constipation. Actually, the range of what is considered normal for ninety-five percent of adults falls between three and twenty-one times a week. Any of these numbers is normal.

Many people believe that “toxins” can build up in the intestines if bowel movements are irregular. In fact, there is no proof that supports the belief that these “toxins” even exist, let alone causing cancer or other diseases. However, if try adding more fiber to your diet, laxatives, or any of the other recommended reliefs, it is time to see your doctor to find out just why you seem to have chronic constipation. Certainly the longer that you are constipated, the worse you will feel and the more you will worry about the cause of being constipated.