What are the symptoms of constipation? First are infrequent bowel movements of typically 3 times or fewer each week. Some people do the deed 2 to 3 times per week, however, and this would still fall under normal. What makes them constipated in such cases is the difficulty they experience during defecation, having to strain more than a quarter of all bowel movements or the mere sensation of hard stools. The third symptom is the sensation of having defecated incompletely.
How can you get rid of such symptoms? The first instance you feel your stools are much harder than they used to be, take a close look at your diet. People who eat a lot more meat than fruits and vegetables not only excrete harder stools but also smellier ones. Increase your fruit and veggie intake to 5 servings a day, drink lots of water and fresh juices, and take fiber supplements if necessary. Exercise regularly to increase your metabolism and to normalize gastrointestinal motility. Avoid the use of laxatives if you could, as laxative dependence can remove the naturally occurring urge to defecate. Take medications and other treatments such as suppositories and enemas when prescribed by a physician. Just remember: prevention is always better than cure. A fiber-rich diet and regularly initiated bowel movements should do it for you if you’re not already constipated.
