Constipation Causes

Constipation is caused by excess water absorption in the colon (also known as the large intestine). As food moves through the colon, water is absorbed and stool is formed. If food moves too slowly through the colon, too much water will be absorbed, resulting in hard, dry stool. Constipation can be caused by a number of different factors including:

Constipation and Diet

Constipation may be caused by dietary factors including:

• Not enough fiber in diet
• Not enough liquid in diet

Lifestyle Habits and Constipation

Certain habits or changes in your life may cause constipation:

• Travel
• Pregnancy
• Old age
• Lack of exercise

Medical Factors Causing Constipation

Medications and other conditions may cause constipation:

• Use of certain medications (pain killers, iron pills, narcotics, antidepressants)
• Abuse of laxatives
• Irritable bowel disease
• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement
• Parkinson's Disease
• Multiple sclerosis