Iron Supplements Constipation

Iron supplements constipation is an undesirable side effect. It happens more often in the elderly and in women. It is also one of the things we often do not talk about.

Constipation is an ineffective or difficult bowel movement. A normal bowel pattern may be three times a day or it may be one or two times a week. Usually, any time longer than three days is too long. Longer times between bowel movements results in harder and more difficult to pass stools.

Symptoms

The first symptom is having hard stools that are difficult to pass, maybe even painful. There is a feeling of being blocked up or an incomplete bowel movement.

• Hard stools more than 25 percent of the time
• Straining during a bowel movement more than 25percent of the time

For some, maneuvering the body will make it easier to pass.

Additionally, repeated straining may be required to pass the stool. The straining can result in hemorrhoids. Stools that do come out may be small in size, few in number and lumpy.

• Incomplete evacuation more than 25% of the time.
• Two or fewer bowel movements in a week.
• Increase in bowel sounds.
• Fatigue is common.
• Bad breath

Constipation is usually caused by a disorder of bowel function rather than a structural problem. Common causes of constipation include:

* Inadequate water intake.
* Inadequate fiber in the diet.
* A disruption of regular diet or routine; traveling.
* Inadequate activity or exercise or immobility.
* Eating large amounts of dairy products.
* Stress.
* Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement (due to hemorrhoids).
* Overuse of laxatives (stool softeners) which in time weaken the bowel muscles.
* Hypothyroidism.
* Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.
* Antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum.
* Medicines (especially strong pain medicines, such as narcotics, antidepressants, or iron pills).
* Depression.
* Eating disorders.
* Irritable bowel syndrome.
* Pregnancy.
* Colon cancer.

In some cases, lack of good nerve and muscle function in the bowel may also be a cause of constipation.

What Are the Symptoms of Constipation?

Symptoms of constipation can include:

* Infrequent bowel movements and/or difficulty having bowel movements.
* Swollen abdomen or abdominal pain.
* Pain.
* Vomiting.

Many people are surprised to learn bad breath is one of the constipation symptoms. Constipation and other disturbances in the intestines can cause poor digestion. A sluggish digestive tract resulting from constipation can cause the mouth to have a putrid odor. This is due to gases rising up from the stomach and into in the mouth.

Effects of Iron Supplements Constipation