Why constipation today? I just had a bout this morning just because I ran out of my fiber sachets and forgot to stock up right on time! I used to be a fan of natural laxatives such as senna in tea bag form but have moved on to fiber sachets just because they are milder on the digestive tract as compared to senna leaves and pods, or so my doctor said. I believe it’s only a matter of one’s preferences but certainly it won’t hurt to consult a doctor considering our age.
Chronic constipation is very common to seniors and elderly people. It’s because as we age, our digestive tract begins to slow down in activity as well. Notice how foods that our stomach received well in past cause trouble when introduced today? One good example is Chinese food, especially those greasy ones with glass noodles on it. No matter how good they are, you know that it will only be a matter of time before your stomach acts up, rendering you almost unconscious!
Generally, constipation is when you are having a hard time passing stool. It should be every single day, as a normal, average person would have it. A senior with constipation however, could have bloody stool, a direct effect of too much “pushing” or could have that bloated, uneasy feeling that you would like to “go” but apparently, it’s a “no-show”! Some of the known causes of constipation, aside from our own age are:
·    Diet that is low in fiber. We should be doubly aware of the food we eat as we near the golden age. As I’ve said before, things inside us are not anymore what they used to be and would need some boosting to perform their tasks. Fiber-enriched foods will help you prevent constipation from happening.
·    Dehydration. Water is needed if you need your stool to go southward. Drink plenty of it.
·    Lack of exercise. For some reason, when you exercise, you’ll feel the need to “go” soon after!
·    Your medications. Yes, you heard it right. Sometimes your medication can cause constipation without your doctor even knowing it. However, if you suspect your medications to be the culprit, discuss it with your doctor so he’ll be able to weigh the pros and cons and how to go about it.
·    Health conditions. Particularly that of the digestive tract. Seniors should be aware that some medical conditions such as colon cancer can easily put seniors at risk for constipation. In fact, it is one of the signs of the said disease.
Also, if you are a chronic laxative user, you might want to seek healthier alternatives since laxatives are known to damage the nerves and muscles of the colon. Some studies found out that regular use of laxative could even worsen your condition, and it is never good for seniors unless prescribed by your doctor.