Why be so concerned about maintaining normal bowel function?
Constipation is more than an annoying problem. People with chronic constipation report they feel that they have a lower quality of life. People who have only one or two bowel movements per week are more likely to have obesity, diabetes, diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, and colon cancer. Constipation may lead to complications including fecal impaction, ulceration, bowel obstruction, sigmoid volvulus (the bowel twisting in a loop), incontinence of stool, rectal prolapse, urinary retention, and even dizziness (and falls). Increasing intestinal distension (stretching of the intestines) may lead to loss of blood flow to the bowel, perforation, and tissue death. Untreated, a bowel obstruction can cause hypovolemic or septic shock and death. Factors that may contribute to constipation: Dietary factors – low residue (low fiber) diet, not drinking enough liquids Inactivity and immobility – movement disorders, gait disturbance (difficulty with walking and balance), wheelchair use, scoliosis, cerebra
